NASCAR president addresses CONTROVERSIAL 2025…read more
NASCAR president Steve Phelps recently addressed the backlash surrounding the 2025 changes to the racing calendar. As NASCAR continues to diversify its schedule, several upcoming modifications have stirred controversy among fans and drivers. One of the most talked-about changes is NASCAR’s decision to race outside of the United States for the first time in nearly 70 years. The 2025 season will feature a points-scoring race in Mexico City at the historic Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez. This will mark the first international race since 1958, a move that has sparked mixed reactions.
Additionally, the 2025 Clash, an exhibition race traditionally held at Daytona, will take place at Bowman Gray Stadium in North Carolina. This will be NASCAR’s return to the iconic venue for the first time since 1971, further fueling debates about the changes to the calendar. Phelps acknowledged the controversy and addressed the concerns raised by fans and participants.
The 2025 season will also see new venues added to the playoff schedule, including Gateway and New Hampshire Motor Speedway. Despite these changes, the championship finale will remain at Phoenix Raceway, as it has been for the past few years. These changes come as part of NASCAR’s ongoing efforts to explore new opportunities and expand the sport’s reach into different markets.
Phelps responded to the criticism during Race Industry Week, reaffirming NASCAR’s commitment to continued growth and adaptation. He explained that schedule variation is a key part of the sport’s future and that the organization is constantly evaluating new opportunities. “We are not going to rest on this schedule and just say, ‘Hey, it’s just this schedule and that’s the way it’s going to be,’” Phelps said. He emphasized that NASCAR is considering a variety of markets, both domestically and internationally, in its pursuit of further expansion.
Phelps pointed to the success of recent changes, such as the Chicago street race, which, despite weather challenges, was well received by fans and media partners. He also noted that the inclusion of Mexico City on the schedule reflects NASCAR’s ongoing efforts to respond to what its fanbase and media partners desire. The president remained confident that these shifts will continue to benefit the sport, even amid the initial pushback.
In conclusion, NASCAR’s 2025 changes are part of a broader strategy to expand the sport’s appeal and adapt to a global marketplace. While some may be resistant to these modifications, Phelps is optimistic about the future and believes the schedule variations will ultimately prove successful.
