Nextel Cup

NASCAR NEXTEL CUP

Checker Auto Parts 500

Site: Avondale, Ariz.

Schedule: Today, qualifying (ESPN2, 2:30 p.m.); Sunday, race (ABC, Noon).

Track: Phoenix International Raceway (tri-oval, 1 mile, 11 degrees banking in turns 1-2, 9 degrees banking in turns 3-4).

Race distance: 312 miles, 312 laps.

Last race: Jimmie Johnson won a dramatic side-by-side duel with Matt Kenseth, grabbing his third straight victory and, more important, wresting the points lead from Jeff Gordon at Texas Motor Speedway. The reigning Cup champion, who began the day nine points behind Hendrick Motorsports teammate Gordon, moved out to a 30-point lead with two races remaining in the Chase for the championship.

Last year: Johnson moved one step closer to his first NASCAR championship, leaving Phoenix International Speedway with a firm hold of the points standings. Johnson settled for second place behind winner Kevin Harvick.

Fast facts: Johnson took the points lead for good at Texas last year on the way to his first and only title. He last won three straight races in 2004 at Lowe's Motor Speedway, Martinsville and Atlanta. ... Gordon won the April race at Phoenix from the pole, his first victory at the track. ... Six of the 12 drivers in the Chase were officially eliminated from title contention last weekend. ... This will be the final Car of Tomorrow event this season.

Next race: Ford 400, Nov. 18, Homestead, Fla.

Busch Series

NASCAR BUSCH

Arizona.Travel 200

Site: Avondale, Ariz.

Schedule: Saturday, qualifying (Speed Channel, Noon), race (ESPN2 1 p.m.).

Track: Phoenix International Raceway (tri-oval, 1 mile, 11 degrees banking in turns 1-2, 9 degrees banking in turns 3-4).

Race distance: 200 miles, 200 laps.

Last race: Kevin Harvick won another race and runaway points leader Carl Edwards finally wrapped up his first Busch Series championship at Texas Motor Speedway.