In an unexpected twist in the NASCAR world, Michael McDowell has officially put a stop to the nickname “Dad,” given to him by his teammate Justin Haley. McDowell, who recently joined Spire Motorsports for the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season, expressed his discomfort with the name, describing it as “really weird.” This revelation comes shortly after both drivers competed at the exciting season opener at Daytona, alongside full-time teammates Rajah Caruth and Andres Perez.
As a veteran driver with an extensive background that includes everything from open-wheel racing to BMX bicycles, McDowell’s career has been nothing short of remarkable. The 40-year-old made his NASCAR debut in the Truck Series in 2007 and progressed to the Cup Series in 2009 when he drove for Michael Waltrip Racing. His triumph in the 2021 Daytona 500 marked a significant milestone and secured his first playoff appearance.
With eight full-time seasons under his belt, McDowell is currently ranked 19th in the points standings as he heads into the Jack Link’s 500 at Talladega Superspeedway. During a pre-race press conference, McDowell also shared his insights regarding fuel-saving strategies that have become critical at superspeedways like Talladega and Daytona. These strategies allow drivers to minimize their time on pit road, which can greatly influence race outcomes.
However, not all drivers are happy with the current state of fuel-saving tactics. Some have voiced their frustrations over the extreme measures needed to gain positions, and NASCAR’s senior vice president of competition, Elton Sawyer, noted that the organization is considering addressing these concerns. The long green-flag runs tend to slow down races, which has also been met with dissatisfaction from fans eager for more action and excitement on the track.
Reflecting upon his racing achievements, McDowell recently celebrated his Daytona victory and his second win in the Cup Series during the 2023 Verizon 200 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. As the 11th race of the 2025 season approaches at Talladega, McDowell will carry the momentum of three top-10 finishes in his last eight starts at the famed 2.66-mile tri-oval, further amplifying his hopes for continued success this year.
The story of Michael McDowell and his ban on the “Dad” nickname encapsulates the vibrant and sometimes quirky culture within NASCAR, showcasing how camaraderie and competition go hand in hand. Fans can look forward to more thrilling races and lively interactions as the season unfolds.
