Introduction
In the world of NASCAR, making predictions is a precarious art. The 2025 NASCAR Cup Series predictions are no exception, especially after last year’s notable misstep. Joey Logano, the reigning champion, couldn’t resist highlighting that he wasn’t even included in the playoffs in last year’s predictions. Despite the challenge, the goal is to avoid any major blunders. Here’s a look at what the 2025 NASCAR season might hold, from the Daytona 500 to the championship.
Daytona 500
The Daytona 500, the grandest stage of them all, is a race where anything can happen. This year, Brad Keselowski is tipped to take the victory. Keselowski has a strong track record at these venues, and the addition of a third RFK car and a Haas Factory Team alliance could provide him with the support he needs. However, Daytona hasn’t always been kind to him, with just one top-10 finish in his last 10 Daytona 500s and seven non-finishes in the same period. His overly aggressive driving style often deters other drivers from cooperating with him, making this prediction a bit of a gamble. Nevertheless, the Daytona 500 is a race known for its unpredictable nature, and Keselowski’s experience and determination could pay off.
Regular-Season Champion
Kyle Larson is the frontrunner for the regular-season champion. Last year, he was the leading contender in terms of laps led and miles covered, and there’s no reason to believe he won’t continue his dominance. His consistency and skill make him a formidable force, and with a full season ahead, he’s a strong bet to top the standings once again.
Playoff Participants
The playoff field is expected to feature a mix of familiar faces and newcomers. Twelve drivers who made the playoffs last year are likely to return: Joey Logano, Christopher Bell, Ryan Blaney, Alex Bowman, Chase Briscoe, William Byron, Chase Elliott, Ty Gibbs, Denny Hamlin, Brad Keselowski, Kyle Larson, and Tyler Reddick. Additionally, four drivers who missed the playoffs last year are predicted to make it this time: Chris Buescher, Kyle Busch, Ross Chastain, and Bubba Wallace. Conversely, Harrison Burton and Martin Truex Jr. won’t be racing full-time in Cup this year, and Austin Cindric and Daniel Suarez are expected to miss out, at least in the regular season. With 17 regular-season winners predicted, the competition for playoff spots will be intense.
Championship 4
The final four in the championship race are expected to be Ryan Blaney, William Byron, Denny Hamlin, and Chase Elliott. Blaney, Byron, and Hamlin have consistently shown their prowess on the track, while Elliott’s steady performance makes him a strong contender. This year, achieving the Championship 4 will be a test of skill, strategy, and consistency. Notable absentees include Joey Logano and Kyle Larson, who face tough challenges in the semifinal round, particularly at Talladega and Martinsville.
Champion
William Byron is predicted to emerge as the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series champion. After a strong start last year followed by a downturn, Byron has the potential to bounce back. His youth and focus, along with the expertise of crew chief Rudy Fugle, position him well for a strong finish at Phoenix. Byron’s performance in the Championship 4 last year, despite the challenges, suggests that he is a step closer to the top spot this time around.
Rookie of the Year and Comeback Driver of the Year
The Rookie of the Year is expected to be Shane van Gisbergen, who has a significant edge over Riley Herbst due to his exceptional skill on road courses. For the Comeback Driver of the Year, Noah Gragson is the frontrunner. After a difficult rookie season marred by controversy, Gragson’s move to Front Row Motorsports and the continued support of crew chief Drew Blickensderfer could see him achieve a top-20 finish in the standings, marking a significant improvement from his 24th-place finish last year.
Conclusion
The 2025 NASCAR Cup Series promises to be a season of intense competition and exciting races. From the unpredictability of the Daytona 500 to the meticulous calculations that will determine the champion, every moment will be crucial. While some predictions may seem bold, the spirit of NASCAR is all about taking risks and pushing the limits. As the season unfolds, one thing is certain: it will be a thrilling ride for fans and drivers alike.
