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The 2025 NASCAR season etched its name into the sport’s history books, marked by fierce on-track competition, significant legal proceedings that captivated the industry, and the crowning of a familiar champion. Kyle Larson secured his second career NASCAR Cup Series title, but the season was far from a simple victory lap. The ongoing debate surrounding the playoff system, with Denny Hamlin often at the forefront of discussions, permeated the entire campaign. This comprehensive look at the 76th NASCAR season highlights the 50 most memorable moments that defined 2025.
Remembering the Departed
While the roar of engines and the pursuit of victory dominated headlines, 2025 also saw NASCAR mourn the loss of several beloved figures. A tragic plane crash claimed the lives of Greg Biffle, Cristina Grossu, Emma Biffle, Ryder Biffle, Dennis Dutton, Jack Dutton, and Craig Wadsworth, a devastating blow just a week before the passing of Dennis Hamlin Sr. in a house fire. The community also bid farewell to Rick "Otis" Hodges, legendary journalist Al Pearce, championship-winning team owner Shige Hattori, Daytona 500 winning owner Bill Davis, team owners Bill Baumgardner, Travis Carter, Charlie Henderson, and Larry McClure, and dedicated crew members Steve ‘Birdie’ Bird and Zach Yager. Drivers Martin Truex Sr., Wayne Andrews, Phil Barkdoll, and Rex White, along with Xfinity Series winner Michael Annett, also left indelible marks on the sport. The contributions of Jon Edwards, Jerry Petty, Humpy Wheeler, and Grant Lynch were also honored.
Grassroots Legends Shine in Clash Debut
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In a move that celebrated the sport’s foundational roots, Bowman Gray Stadium legends Tim Brown and Burt Myers made surprise appearances in the pre-season Clash. Their inclusion served as a poignant reminder of the dedication and talent nurtured in grassroots racing, offering a romanticized glimpse into NASCAR’s origins.
Cleetus McFarland’s ARCA Impact
YouTuber and amateur racer Garrett Mitchell, widely known as Cleetus McFarland, brought a massive online audience to the ARCA Racing Series. His Daytona and Talladega starts generated hundreds of thousands of live viewers, significantly boosting the series’ visibility. Despite an early exit at Daytona, Mitchell secured top-10 finishes at Talladega and Charlotte, demonstrating his growing prowess on track.
Martinsville Xfinity Mayhem
The spring Xfinity Series race at Martinsville Speedway proved to be a chaotic affair. A late-race incident involving Sammy Smith and Taylor Gray, followed by a multi-car pile-up on the frontstretch, drew widespread criticism from figures like Denny Hamlin and Dale Jr. The messy conclusion led to penalties for Smith and a clear message from NASCAR regarding acceptable on-track conduct.
Wallace Denied Daytona 500 Start
Mike Wallace’s bid to compete in the Daytona 500 for the first time in over a decade was thwarted by NASCAR’s approval process. The sanctioning body cited a lack of recent starts across various track types as grounds for denial, leaving Wallace, who aimed to race in honor of his late wife, deeply disappointed.
Lamar Jackson’s Trademark Tussle
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson entered the NASCAR discourse not through the driver’s seat, but through a trademark dispute. His legal team filed an opposition against JR Motorsports’ stylized "8" logo, alleging similarity to his "Era8" brand. JR Motorsports subsequently reverted to an older DEI font, resolving the issue without further fanfare.
Chipper Jones and Joey Logano’s Online Exchange
A brief but noteworthy online spat unfolded between MLB Hall of Famer Chipper Jones and NASCAR driver Joey Logano. The exchange, initiated by Jones’ criticism of Logano’s radio communication at Talladega, evolved into a playful social media back-and-forth, highlighting the passion of a legendary athlete for the sport.
Stewart Friesen’s Gruesome Injury
Stewart Friesen faced a severe setback in July when a violent Super DirtCar Modified crash in Quebec resulted in a fractured pelvis and a severely broken leg. The incident necessitated multiple surgeries and an extensive recovery, forcing Friesen to miss the remainder of the Cup Series season and sideline him from potential playoff contention.
Matt Crafton’s Truck Series Farewell
The 2025 season marked the end of an era as Matt Crafton concluded his full-time NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series career. A three-time champion and holder of the record for most consecutive starts, Crafton’s departure leaves a significant void in the series.
RAM Returns to NASCAR
In a significant announcement for the Truck Series, the RAM brand confirmed its return to NASCAR in 2026 after a hiatus since 2013. Owned by Stellantis, the brand’s re-entry is seen as a precursor to a potential Dodge return to the Cup Series in the coming years, with Kaulig Racing slated to be an anchor team.
The Earnhardt Data Farm Controversy
Plans to develop parts of Dale Earnhardt’s property into a data farm were met with fierce opposition from local residents and family members. Tract, the developer, eventually withdrew its proposal for the "Mooresville Technology Park" following significant backlash and concerns over environmental impact and community character.
Suarez Victorious in Mexico
Daniel Suarez delivered a memorable victory for his home crowd at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez in the Xfinity Series. The win resonated deeply in Mexico, creating an electrifying atmosphere that transcended television broadcasts.
Elliott Claims Most Popular Driver Title, Again
Chase Elliott secured his eighth consecutive Most Popular Driver award, a testament to his enduring connection with the fanbase. This remarkable streak places him in elite company, joining the legacies of Bill Elliott and Dale Earnhardt Jr.
Larson’s "Double" Doubt
Following his Indy 500 efforts, Kyle Larson expressed a newfound reluctance to pursue "The Double" again. Citing his recent experiences, including a crash in 2025 and a penalty in 2024 that caused him to miss the Coca-Cola 600, Larson indicated a desire to focus on other racing endeavors.
Cup Series Returns to Bowman Gray Stadium
The NASCAR Cup Series made a historic return to Bowman Gray Stadium for the inaugural Cook Out Clash. The quarter-mile track, steeped in NASCAR history, hosted its first Cup Series event since 1971, with Chase Elliott claiming victory in an exhibition race lauded for its energy and competitive quality.
Preece’s Aerial Maneuvers Continue
Ryan Preece experienced another airborne incident at Daytona, this time in the Daytona 500, mirroring his 2023 flip. While acknowledging the need for NASCAR to address car stability, Preece humorously embraced an astronaut persona in response to his recurring aerial adventures at "The World Center of Racing."
RFK Racing’s Challenging Season
Despite expanding to three full-time entries, RFK Racing experienced a winless season and missed the playoffs. While showcasing speed throughout the year, the team struggled with consistency and near-misses that prevented them from reaching Victory Lane.
Berry’s Maiden Cup Victory
Josh Berry celebrated his first career Cup Series win at the Pennzoil 400, a significant achievement for the veteran driver and a triumphant moment for the historic Wood Brothers team. His victory, after a long career in short-track racing, resonated as a throwback to traditional NASCAR narratives.
Dale Jr. Achieves Crew Chief Win
Dale Earnhardt Jr. added another achievement to his diverse racing resume by winning as a crew chief. Taking the reins at Pocono Raceway due to a suspension, he became the ninth individual in NASCAR history to achieve wins as a driver, owner, and crew chief.
Austin Hill’s Suspension and Playoff Repercussions
Austin Hill’s intentional hook on Aric Almirola at Indianapolis resulted in a one-race suspension and a significant penalty. The new NASCAR policy stripped Hill of all accumulated playoff points, effectively ending his championship aspirations in the Xfinity Series.
The In-Season Challenge Delivers Excitement
The inaugural In-Season Challenge provided a five-week spectacle of head-to-head competition. Ty Gibbs emerged as the champion, but the tournament produced memorable moments, including Ty Dillon’s underdog run to the finals, underscoring the significance of the million-dollar prize.
Roval Finish Sparks Controversy
The Charlotte Roval playoff race culminated in a dramatic finish that saw Joey Logano advance while Ross Chastain faced penalties. Chastain’s intentional spin of Denny Hamlin to gain a position fueled further debate about playoff strategies and sportsmanship.
Zilisch’s Victory and Fall
Connor Zilisch secured a victory at Watkins Glen but suffered a broken collarbone during his Victory Lane celebration. Despite the injury, Zilisch returned to racing shortly after, demonstrating remarkable resilience.
Kligerman’s Uncredited Daytona Victories
Parker Kligerman achieved remarkable success at Daytona in 2025, winning both a Truck Series and an Xfinity Series race, though neither was officially credited to his statistics due to disqualification and not taking the green flag, respectively.
Hocevar’s Developing Reputation
Carson Hocevar continued to impress with his speed but also garnered criticism from veteran competitors for his aggressive driving style. Incidents at Atlanta and other tracks led to frustrations from drivers like Kyle Busch and Ryan Blaney, indicating a continued need for development in his on-track demeanor.
Suarez Out, Zilisch In at Trackhouse
Daniel Suarez concluded his tenure with Trackhouse Racing, making way for rising star Connor Zilisch. Zilisch, after a successful loan to JR Motorsports, was promoted to the Cup Series, while Suarez found a new opportunity with Spire Motorsports.
The CW’s Xfinity Series Broadcast Success
The NASCAR Xfinity Series enjoyed a successful transition to The CW, delivering every race on an over-the-air platform. The broadcast team of Adam Alexander, Parker Kligerman, and Jamie McMurray was widely praised, contributing to an average viewership of over a million across the season.
Helio Castroneves Debuts in Daytona 500
IndyCar and sports car legend Helio Castroneves made his Cup Series debut in the Daytona 500 under NASCAR’s new Open Exemption Provisional rule. While his race ended in a crash, his participation highlighted NASCAR’s efforts to honor racing icons.
The Legacy Motor Club and Rick Ware Racing Lawsuit
A legal dispute between Legacy Motor Club and Rick Ware Racing over a disputed charter sale captivated the industry. The protracted legal battle involved allegations of breach of contract and culminated in a settlement that included the provision of a charter for 2026.
Corey Heim’s Dominant Truck Series Season
Corey Heim delivered a historically dominant season in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, securing 12 wins and the championship. His performance, alongside crew chief Scott Zipadelli’s second title, solidified his status as a rising star.
Love Claims Xfinity Championship Over Zilisch
Jesse Love captured the Xfinity Series championship, outdueling the statistically superior Connor Zilisch. While Zilisch amassed ten wins, Love secured the title by winning the season opener and the championship finale, demonstrating clutch performance when it mattered most.
San Diego Set for Future Street Race
NASCAR announced plans for a new street course race at Naval Base Coronado in San Diego, scheduled for June 2026. The unique venue, featuring iconic military landmarks, will host all three national touring divisions.
Rodney Childers’ Transitional Year
Veteran crew chief Rodney Childers experienced a year of change, parting ways with Spire Motorsports and finding success in the CARS Tour with Kevin Harvick Inc. He is set to return to JR Motorsports in 2026, leading a split program in the Xfinity Series.
Bubba Wallace’s Resurgent Season
Bubba Wallace enjoyed a career-defining season in 2025, marked by newfound maturity and a victory in the Brickyard 400. Despite inconsistencies, Wallace and his crew chief Charles Denike maintained a positive outlook throughout the year.
Byron’s Back-to-Back Daytona 500 Triumph
William Byron etched his name in history by becoming the first driver since 2020 to win consecutive Daytona 500s. His victory, secured on the final restart, solidified his status as a superspeedway master.
Van Gisbergen’s Road Course Dominance
Shane Van Gisbergen continued his impressive run on road and street courses, securing five Cup Series victories in 2025. His adaptability also extended to ovals, hinting at further success in the future.
Bristol Night Race Delivers Spectacle
Goodyear’s efforts to replicate the gripping conditions of the 2024 Bristol spring race paid off in the Night Race, which proved to be a race of the year candidate. Christopher Bell emerged victorious in a hard-fought battle featuring numerous lead changes and cautions.
Coke 600 Continues its Entertainment Streak
The Coca-Cola 600 once again delivered a thrilling spectacle in the NextGen era. Ross Chastain’s improbable win from the last starting spot, coupled with a dramatic duel against William Byron, showcased the race’s enduring appeal.
Briscoe and Small’s Career-Defining Season
Chase Briscoe and crew chief James Small silenced doubters with a strong performance in 2025. Three wins, a 12.7 average finish, and seven poles culminated in a Championship Four appearance, signaling a bright future for the No. 19 team.
NASCAR’s Return to Mexico
The Cup and Xfinity Series made a significant return to Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City. Despite logistical challenges, the event was a success, marking NASCAR’s first points race on international soil since 1958.
JR Motorsports’ Cup Series Debut
After two decades in the Xfinity Series, JR Motorsports made its highly anticipated Cup Series debut with Justin Allgaier, scoring a top-10 finish in the Daytona 500. The team’s collaboration with Hendrick Motorsports and sponsorship from Chris Stapleton’s Traveller Whiskey added significant fanfare to their entry.
Prime Video’s Streaming Success
Amazon Prime Video’s debut as NASCAR’s exclusive digital streaming partner was met with widespread praise. The broadcast’s presentation and approach, featuring a strong booth and insightful studio show, resonated with fans, blending modern technology with traditional NASCAR broadcast elements.
Goodyear’s Tire Contributions
Goodyear played a crucial role in enhancing the on-track product in 2025, particularly on short tracks and road courses. Their commitment to developing tires with increased wear, pushing the limits of safety, was instrumental in creating more competitive racing.
Kansas Playoff Race Thriller
The Cup Series playoff race at Kansas Speedway delivered a dramatic and hard-fought battle. Chase Elliott secured the win amidst intense competition, with drivers like Bubba Wallace and Denny Hamlin engaging in pivotal on-track battles.
Hamlin’s 60th Career Victory
Denny Hamlin reached a significant milestone, securing his 60th career Cup Series win at Las Vegas. The victory, dedicated to his father, was an emotional moment for the veteran driver, further solidifying his Hall of Fame credentials.
Larson Clinches Second Championship
Kyle Larson captured his second NASCAR Cup Series championship, capping a season marked by three wins and consistent performance. His victory at Homestead-Miami Speedway underscored his talent and championship pedigree.
Hamlin Denied Championship by Tire Failure
Denny Hamlin’s quest for his first Cup Series championship was agonizingly cut short by a tire failure in the closing laps at Homestead-Miami. Despite leading a record number of laps, the incident allowed William Byron to capitalize and ultimately secure the title.
The Playoff System Debate Rages On
The 2025 season was defined by an ongoing debate surrounding the playoff system. NASCAR’s establishment of an industry panel to discuss potential changes for 2026 fueled constant discussion about the merits of a playoff versus a season-long championship format.
The Antitrust Lawsuit Dominates Headlines
The legal battle between 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports against NASCAR over antitrust grounds was a dominant narrative throughout the season. Daily filings and court appearances kept the sport’s stakeholders engaged in the legal proceedings.
Trial Concludes with Landmark Settlement
The culmination of the antitrust lawsuit saw a landmark settlement reached on December 1st. The trial, intended to determine if NASCAR had abused its monopoly power, concluded with permanent charters, revised governance, and undisclosed financial terms, bringing a significant chapter to a close.
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