NASCAR 2025: Everything You Need to Know About This Exciting Season
The 2025 NASCAR season is here, and fans across the U.S. are gearing up for another year of high-speed excitement. With new tracks, rule changes, and legendary drivers ready to hit the road, this season promises non-stop action. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, here’s everything you need to know about the 2025 season, including key race dates, where to watch, and the top drivers to follow.
When Does the NASCAR 2025 Season Start?
The 2025 season kicks off with the iconic Daytona 500 on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at 1:30 PM ET. Known as “The Great American Race,” the Daytona 500 is the most prestigious event on the calendar, drawing millions of viewers and fans to the track. This race sets the tone for the entire season, and winning it is a dream for every driver.
Where to Watch: U.S. fans can watch the Daytona 500 live on FOX or stream it on the FOX Sports App, YouTube TV, Sling TV, Hulu+, and Fubo. With so many options, fans can easily catch all the action from anywhere.
What to Expect at Daytona 500: The 2025 Daytona 500 will feature 40 drivers, with 36 guaranteed spots. A new rule allows “world-class drivers” to participate, possibly increasing the field to 41 drivers. Chase Briscoe is set to start in the pole position for Joe Gibbs Racing, while Austin Cindric lines up beside him. Fans are especially excited to see if Kyle Busch can finally secure his first Daytona 500 victory after 20 attempts.
NASCAR 2025 TV Schedule: Where to Watch Every Race
This season, fans have more ways to watch their favorite races than ever before. Here’s a breakdown of where to catch all the action:
. FOX Sports: Airing the first 14 Cup Series races, including the Daytona 500 and the All-Star Race.
. NBC Sports: Broadcasting the last 14 races of the season, including the playoffs and the championship finale.
. Amazon Prime Video: Exclusively streaming five midseason Cup Series races, marking company’s first major partnership with a streaming-only platform.
. TNT Sports (Warner Bros. Discovery): Showing five midseason races on truTV, with practice and qualifying sessions available on the Max streaming service.
With this new broadcasting mix, fans can watch races on traditional TV or stream them online. However, to watch all the races, fans may need subscriptions to multiple platforms.
NASCAR 2025 Schedule: Key Races and New Venues
This year’s schedule is packed with exciting races, legendary tracks, and some brand-new locations:
. Daytona 500 – February 16, 2025
. Auto Club Speedway – March 2, 2025
. Rockingham Speedway – Returns to the schedule for the first time since 2004.
. Mexico City – heads to the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, expanding its international reach.
. Chicago Street Race – A unique street course that challenges drivers in a whole new way.
. North Wilkesboro Speedway – Hosting the All-Star Race, continuing its successful revival.
. Bristol Motor Speedway – Bringing back the thrilling dirt race.
For the complete schedule and ticket information, visit the official website.
What’s New in NASCAR 2025?
The 2025 season introduces several exciting changes designed to enhance the racing experience:
Electric Pace Car: For the first time ever, will use the Chevrolet 2025 Blazer EV SS as the pace car at the Daytona 500.
Rule Changes:
. Damaged Vehicle Policy: Teams can now repair damaged cars in the garage without immediate disqualification, allowing drivers to rejoin the race strategically.
. Playoff Waiver Changes: Drivers with a non-medical playoff waiver will lose all current and future playoff points, starting the playoffs with 2,000 points.
Open Exemption Provisional: This new rule allows “world-class drivers” to compete in select events.
. Amazon Prime Sponsorship: Amazon Prime is sponsoring Chase Elliott’s No. 9 Chevrolet for three races each year through 2027.
. Helio Castroneves Joins: Racing legend Helio Castroneves will participate in the Daytona 500.
Top Drivers to Watch in NASCAR 2025
The 2025 season features an exciting mix of veteran racers and rising stars:
. Kyle Busch: After 20 attempts, Busch is determined to finally win his first Daytona 500.
. Denny Hamlin, Joey Logano, Brad Keselowski, and Kyle Larson: These experienced drivers are known for their aggressive racing styles and strategic moves.
. Zane Smith: After a strong rookie season, Smith joins Front Row Motorsports with big expectations.
. Chase Elliott: Backed by Amazon Prime, Elliott is one of the most popular drivers and a serious championship contender.
. Frankie Muniz: Known for his role in Malcolm in the Middle, Muniz is debuting in the Craftsman Truck Series with Reaume Brothers Racing, bringing new fans to the sport.
Stay Updated: Follow official channels and news websites for the latest updates and race highlights.
Get Ready for the 2025 Season!
The 2025 season is packed with excitement, from legendary races and new tracks to star drivers and groundbreaking rule changes. Whether you’re watching from home or cheering trackside, this season promises high-speed thrills, dramatic finishes, and unforgettable moments.
Don’t miss the start of the season with the Daytona 500 on February 16, 2025. Mark your calendars, tune in on your favorite platform, and get ready to cheer on your favorite drivers.
Buckle up and enjoy the ride—NASCAR 2025 is here!