The NASCAR Cup Series season for 2025 has officially kicked off, with the Daytona 500 marking the beginning of a packed schedule of 36 races over 38 weeks. The season includes the All-Star Race in May and only has one off weekend on Easter weekend. Following that break, the top series races 28 times in 28 weeks.
Here’s a preview of what to expect this season, including our championship pick and playoff contenders. For a recap of all the driver movements leading up to the season, we’ve got you covered.
Joey Logano in an odd-numbered year
After clinching his third Cup Series championship in 2024, Joey Logano is looking to continue his odd-year curse. Despite his previous successes in even-numbered years, he has yet to qualify for the championship race in odd-numbered years. However, it would be unwise to count him out completely for this season.
While Logano’s track record may not be as strong in odd years, it’s always a possibility for him to defy the odds and make a strong title run.
Can someone join him as a repeat champ?
Logano stands out as the only active driver with more than two Cup Series titles, with Kyle Busch being the only other driver with multiple championships. With Martin Truex Jr. retiring from full-time racing, there are only four other active drivers with Cup Series titles.
Brad Keselowski, Chase Elliott, Kyle Larson, and Ryan Blaney all have the potential to secure a second Cup Series title, given their strong performances in the playoffs and high finishes in the points standings.
Who’s the best bet to become a first-time champion?
Among the contenders for a first-time championship, Christopher Bell, William Byron, Tyler Reddick, and Denny Hamlin are top picks. While Hamlin has yet to secure a title despite his success, the new season brings changes to his team and sponsorship, which could impact his performance.
NASCAR’s new TV deal
Exciting changes are in store for NASCAR’s TV coverage, with Amazon joining Fox, NBC, and TNT in broadcasting Cup races for the first time in 2025. The distribution of races among these networks will provide fans with a variety of viewing options throughout the season.
Schedule changes
The addition of a race in Mexico City and adjustments to the schedule, including moving Homestead out of the playoffs, bring new challenges and opportunities for drivers. Watkins Glen’s return to its August date and other race realignments add to the excitement of the upcoming season.
Who makes the playoffs?
Several drivers are strong contenders for the playoffs, including Logano, Bell, Blaney, Byron, Elliott, Hamlin, Larson, Reddick, and others. The competition for the remaining spots in the 16-driver field will be fierce, with drivers like Josh Berry, Ross Chastain, Ty Gibbs, and Alex Bowman vying for a chance to compete.
The champion
As the season unfolds, we anticipate a thrilling battle for the championship title. With drivers like Bell, Blaney, Elliott, and Larson in the final four, the race for the Cup Series title is sure to be intense. While Larson may be the favorite, our pick for the champion is Bell, who could secure the first championship for a Toyota driver in several years.