Who’s Racing in Open Cars at Daytona 500: The 2025 Daytona 500 is just around the corner, and excitement is building! But there’s one big question—who’s racing in the open cars? The list is full of surprises, and NASCAR fans won’t want to miss out on who could be lining up at the start. Some familiar faces and even some unexpected names could make an appearance, changing the whole race dynamic.
Key Highlights
- Helio Castroneves is set to make his NASCAR debut in an open car with Trackhouse Racing.
- Mike Wallace returns from retirement to race in an open car for MBM Motorsports.
- JJ Yeley seeks redemption in an open car with NY Racing after missing 2024 qualifiers.
- BJ McLeod continues with his own team, BJ McLeod Motorsports, in the open car category.
- Rick Ware Racing and AmeriVet Racing are expected to field open cars, adding to the competitive mix.
Countdown to the 2025 Daytona 500
As the countdown to the 2025 Daytona 500 continues, anticipation is building for what promises to be an exhilarating showcase in motorsports. With just 41 days remaining until the green flag waves, the excitement surrounding NASCAR’s most revered event, The Great American Race, is tangible.
This event stands as a pinnacle in American motorsport, not only for its storied history but also for its unique ability to attract elite competitors from diverse racing disciplines. The open entry format paves the way for an eclectic blend of seasoned NASCAR veterans and distinguished figures from other racing series to vie for glory on the famed Daytona International Speedway.
The 2025 edition is poised to deliver a compelling narrative, as it features a growing list of high-profile participants keen to etch their names in the annals of racing history. This year’s lineup includes the formidable presence of 2017 NASCAR Cup Series champion Martin Truex Jr., who brings a wealth of experience and a formidable track record to the table.
Furthermore, the race may see the participation of the legendary IndyCar driver Helio Castroneves, whose illustrious career adds an intriguing dimension to the competition. In addition, the potential involvement of Jimmie Johnson, the esteemed Legacy Motor Club owner, further elevates the event’s prestige, promising a captivating contest among motorsport luminaries.
As anticipation mounts, the 2025 Daytona 500 is set to enthrall audiences with its blend of tradition, innovation, and unparalleled racing skill, offering a thrilling spectacle for motorsport enthusiasts worldwide.
Confirmed Participants for the 2025 Daytona 500
With the excitement for the 2025 Daytona 500 reaching its peak, attention now shifts to the confirmed participants set to compete in this storied race. The lineup is a fascinating blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, each enthusiastic to etch their name in the annals of this prestigious event. Among the confirmed entries, the legendary Helio Castroneves stands out. Known for his remarkable four-time Indy 500 victories, Castroneves will make his NASCAR debut through Trackhouse Racing’s Project 91, bringing his immense experience and a wave of Brazilian fanfare to the Daytona International Speedway.
Four-time Indy 500 winner Helio Castroneves gets Trackhouse ride for Daytona 500 … plus a look at who he likely will battle for spots @NASCARONFOX https://t.co/koDEDn9P4n
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) January 6, 2025
Adding to the roster is Mike Wallace, a name synonymous with NASCAR history. Wallace, who initially retired in 2015, returns to the Daytona 500 with MBM Motorsports. Motivated by personal loss, Wallace aims to honor his late wife, Clara, by turning this race into a symbol of hope and triumph, marking a poignant narrative in his storied career.
“The big reason is in January 2024 I lost my wife Carla from being married 44 years… Myself and my kids, we all needed a boost. We need something that would say, ‘Here’s a positive story for us, let’s go make it happen’ and this opportunity presented itself.” – Mike Wallace
JJ Yeley, another stalwart in the sport, will drive for NY Racing, seeking redemption after a narrow miss in the 2024 qualifiers. His previous top-10 finish at Daytona highlights his capability and determination to excel.
“We’re going to go down there and try it again, and hopefully we can get in the big show and see what we can do.” – JJ Yeley
Lastly, BJ McLeod of BJ McLeod Motorsports reaffirms his commitment to the sport. Despite not having secured a victory yet, McLeod’s consistent performance at Daytona offers a glimpse of potential success.
Speculated Entries for the Daytona 500
Anticipation for the 2025 Daytona 500 continues to build as speculation surrounds potential entries, adding another layer of thrill to the event. Among the most discussed potential entries is Martin Truex Jr., a former NASCAR Cup Series champion whose return to the track has fans enthusiastic awaiting confirmation.
Although Truex Jr. retired from full-time racing last year, the charm of competitive racing seems irresistible. His participation remains uncertain, hinging on the arrangements that Joe Gibbs Racing may facilitate. During the 2024 NASCAR Awards, Truex Jr. expressed cautious optimism, stating, “I was told (Joe Gibbs Racing) is doing it somehow, so we’ll see.” This statement fuels speculation regarding his potential involvement, as fans and analysts alike ponder the tactical implications of his return.
In the broader context of the Daytona 500, the entry list is expected to expand as the race date approaches. Speculation suggests that several other teams and drivers will seize the opportunity to participate in this prestigious event, further heightening the anticipation.
The intrigue surrounding potential entries emphasizes the Daytona 500’s status as a marquee event in the motorsport calendar. As teams weigh their options and finalize their plans, the anticipation further intensifies, promising a mesmerizing spectacle for fans keen to witness high-caliber racing.
Open cars for Daytona confirmed:
44-Yeley (NY Racing)
66-Wallace (MBM)
91-Castroneves (Trackhouse)
78-McLeod (BJM)expected:
15-TBA (RWR)
62-Alfredo (Beard)
84-Johnson (Legacy)
TBA-Truex Jr. (expect Tricon)Iffy on AmeriVet … no Kaulig … I've heard at least 1 more possible
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) January 6, 2025
The forthcoming announcements will certainly shape the narrative leading into the race, setting the stage for an unforgettable contest.
Anticipated Return of Legendary Drivers and Teams
The attraction of the Daytona 500 lies not only in its storied history but also in the potential return of legendary drivers and teams that improve the competition to new heights. Jimmie Johnson, a 7-time NASCAR champion, is contemplating a return with Legacy Motor Club (LMC). His participation would not only resurrect the iconic 84 car but also contribute considerable intrigue to the event, as he pursues a third Daytona 500 victory, having previously triumphed in 2006 and 2013. Johnson’s return is anticipated with great enthusiasm, given his formidable track record and the tactical wildcard element LMC aims to introduce.
In addition to Johnson, the re-emergence of Rick Ware Racing (RWR) as a formidable contender is keenly anticipated. Known for their consistent presence as open entries, RWR is expected to field at least one car, the No. 15 RWR. Joining them, the AmeriVet Racing team is also gearing up to make its mark on the Daytona 500 entry list. Their participation highlights a broader trend of renewed vigor among established teams, promising to raise the level of competition.
Excitement Builds for the 2025 NASCAR Season Opener
As the 2025 NASCAR season opener approaches, enthusiasm is reaching a fever pitch among fans and teams alike. The anticipation surrounding the Daytona 500, often regarded as the pinnacle of stock car racing, is tangible.
With the possibility of Richard Childress Racing (RCR) expanding its lineup to include an extra open entry, the competitive landscape is set to be more dynamic than ever. This potential move could further improve RCR’s formidable presence in the racing circuit, prompting intrigue about who might join their ranks and how this will impact the race dynamics.
The 2025 Daytona 500 promises to be an exhilarating event, not only due to the possible expansion of RCR’s team but also because of the star-studded roster expected to compete. The uncertainty regarding the final entry list adds an element of suspense, keeping fans on the edge of their seats as they keenly await announcements.
Moreover, the prospect of open entries brings an extra layer of unpredictability. These wildcard participants have the potential to disrupt established hierarchies, making planning more complex for all teams involved.
As the countdown to race day continues, teams are certainly refining their plans and preparing for the challenges that lie ahead. Fans can anticipate not just a race, but an exciting narrative unfolding at the Daytona International Speedway, setting a high-octane tone for the 2025 NASCAR season.
News in Brief: Who’s Racing in Open Cars at Daytona 500
The 2025 Daytona 500 promises to be a enchanting event, featuring a dynamic mix of confirmed participants and speculated entries that add a layer of intrigue to the competition. With the anticipated return of legendary drivers and teams, the excitement surrounding the NASCAR season opener is tangible.
As the countdown progresses, the evolving roster of competitors highlights the sport’s enduring appeal and the competitive spirit that defines this iconic racing event, setting the stage for a exhilarating spectacle.
ALSO READ: Martin Truex Jr.’s Daytona 500 Plans Are More Dramatic Than Anyone Could Have Imagined
