NASCAR 2025 Season Review: Key Highlights and Insights
As the 2025 NASCAR season concludes, anticipation builds for 2026 amidst recent tragedies within the community. The year was a tapestry of remarkable achievements, emotional moments, and critical developments that will define the sport moving forward.
Driver of the Year: Denny Hamlin
At 44 years old, Denny Hamlin delivered one of the strongest seasons of his career, marking his highest win count since 2020. His No. 11 team demonstrated exceptional consistency, showcasing Hamlin’s enduring skill. Despite an emotional defeat in the championship race, his overall performance solidified him as a leading contender throughout the season.
Most Improved Driver: Bubba Wallace
Bubba Wallace exhibited significant growth under new crew chief Charles Denike, consistently appearing near the front in races. While he narrowly missed multiple wins, his points and performance metrics reflected a marked improvement, prompting co-owner Denny Hamlin to praise Wallace as the fastest car in 23XI Racing.
Biggest Surprise: RFK Racing Winless
Despite solid performances from their trio of drivers—Brad Keselowski, Ryan Preece, and Chris Buescher—RFK Racing shockingly concluded the season winless and missed the postseason. Their struggles were surprising given their competitive pace, but the groundwork for future success seems to be laid.
Most Disappointing: Ty Gibbs
Ty Gibbs had a challenging year, finishing as the fourth-best driver within the Joe Gibbs Racing stable. Struggling to find the same success as his teammates despite new crew chief Tyler Allen, Gibbs’ performance disappointed fans and stakeholders alike.
MVP: Amazon
In its inaugural season with NASCAR, Amazon proved to be a standout partner, enhancing race presentations with engaging and informative content, extending coverage, and delivering a well-received viewing experience.
Story of the Year: Cup Series Playoff Format
The ongoing discussion surrounding the playoff format dominated conversations throughout the season. Despite some support, a notable faction of fans and participants voiced strong opposition, leading NASCAR to establish a committee to evaluate potential changes. The season’s dramatic finales underscored the contentious nature of the current structure.
Best Paint Scheme: Axalta (Daytona 500)
William Byron’s Daytona 500 paint scheme, featuring innovative flame designs, garnered acclaim but faced scrutiny from NASCAR, resulting in modifications that diluted its original creativity post-race.
Best Race: Coca-Cola 600
The Coca-Cola 600 emerged as a highlight, showcasing Ross Chastain’s incredible comeback from the back of the pack to victory. This marathon race was filled with strategic battles, multiple lead changes, and significant incidents throughout, affirming its status among the season’s best events.
Worst Race: Bristol Motor Speedway (Spring)
In contrast, the spring race at Bristol was marked by a lack of excitement, with minimal competition as Kyle Larson dominated. This event was quickly forgotten, epitomizing the frustrations sometimes found in short track racing.
Coolest Moment: Daniel Suarez Wins in Mexico City
NASCAR’s return to Mexico City was spotlighted by Daniel Suarez’s victory, which resonated deeply with fans and served as a triumphant highlight of his career, cementing his role as the event’s face.
Breakout Driver: Chase Briscoe
Chase Briscoe emerged as a formidable competitor, capturing multiple wins and advancing to the championship race. His success validated the long-held belief in his potential, demonstrating his capabilities in top-tier equipment.
Crew Chief of the Year: Cliff Daniels
Cliff Daniels received recognition for his exceptional leadership, guiding Kyle Larson to a championship. His ability to motivate and strategize effectively solidified his status among NASCAR’s top crew chiefs.
Best Quote: Ty Dillon
Ty Dillon highlighted the season’s competitive spirit during an interview after defeating Denny Hamlin in an in-season tournament, noting, “I just knocked your favorite driver out.” This moment encapsulated the narrative-driven nature of the season.
As NASCAR heads into 2026, the reflections from an eventful 2025 season reveal both triumphs and challenges, setting the stage for a transformative year ahead.
