The 2025 Window World 250 is set to unfold at the historic North Wilkesboro Speedway, where short-track skill and smart strategy could decide everything. With 250 laps ahead, some names stand out more than others—but the path to victory is far from simple. Past winners, rising rookies, and seasoned champions all return to chase glory. Each brings a different strength to the table. Some have unfinished business. Others want to prove a point.
North Wilkesboro Speedway: A Storied Short Track Steeped in NASCAR Lore
North Wilkesboro Speedway, nestled in the rolling hills of North Carolina, is a living monument to NASCAR’s gritty, moonshine-fueled origins. Opened as a dirt track in 1947 by Enoch Staley and his partners, the speedway quickly became a pillar of stock car racing. Its unique, imperfect oval-with a downhill front stretch and an uphill backstretch-was born out of necessity when funds ran short during construction, but this quirk only added to its legend.
The track’s inaugural event, a modified race in May 1947, drew more than 10,000 fans-far exceeding expectations-setting the tone for decades of passionate racing. North Wilkesboro hosted the final race of the 1949 NASCAR Strictly Stock Series, a precursor to today’s Cup Series, and from 1951 to 1996, it was a mainstay on the NASCAR calendar, often running two events per year. The track’s surface was paved in 1957, but its character remained unchanged: tough, fast, and unforgiving.
Legends have dominated here. Richard Petty holds the record with 15 Cup wins, while Darrell Waltrip notched 10, including a remarkable five straight from 1981 to 1983. The venue’s deep roots in Wilkes County’s moonshine-running past-epitomized by local hero Junior Johnson-give North Wilkesboro a mystique few tracks can match. After a 27-year hiatus, the speedway’s return to the NASCAR schedule in 2023 rekindled the sport’s connection to its heartland, making every race here a celebration of stock car heritage.
The Window World 250: A Race Reborn on Hallowed Ground
The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series’ relationship with North Wilkesboro is as storied as the track itself, though marked by long absences and triumphant returns. The series debuted at the speedway in 1995 with the Lowe’s 150, a 150-lap contest won by Mike Bliss. The following year, the event expanded to 250 laps as the Lowe’s 250, with Cup Series ace Mark Martin taking the checkered flag-both victories coming behind the wheel of a Ford.
After the 1996 event, the track fell silent, and the Truck Series did not return for more than a quarter-century. But in 2023, as part of North Wilkesboro’s grand revival, the trucks thundered back for the Tyson 250. That race saw Cup Series star Kyle Larson dominate, leading 138 of 250 laps for Spire Motorsports in a Chevrolet-a performance that underscored the track’s ability to reward raw talent and aggression. The 2024 edition, under the Wright Brand 250 banner, was marred by weather, with Corey Heim ultimately prevailing for Toyota after a rain delay split the race across two days.
For 2025, the event carries the Window World 250 name, with the race distance set at 156.25 miles over 250 laps-staged in three segments (two of 70 laps, one of 110). The Truck Series race now shares the weekend spotlight with the NASCAR Cup Series All-Star Race, further cementing North Wilkesboro’s status as a crown jewel of the spring racing calendar. The event’s rotating sponsors and memorable finishes have only added to its lore, and with each running, the Window World 250 strengthens its place in NASCAR’s tapestry.
Five Drivers to Watch: Window World 250 Contenders
As the trucks prepare to tackle North Wilkesboro’s undulating asphalt, the field is stacked with talent, experience, and a few drivers with unfinished business at this historic venue. Drawing from recent winners, current form, and short-track prowess, here are five drivers who stand out as favorites for Saturday’s Window World 250:
The defending North Wilkesboro Truck Series winner, Corey Heim, returns with Tricon Garage and is widely considered the favorite. Heim’s mastery of short tracks and his ability to stay cool under pressure were on full display in his 2024 victory. He’s shown remarkable consistency this season, with multiple wins and top-five finishes, making him a top pick for a repeat performance.
Majeski has established himself as one of the best short-track racers in the Truck Series. Driving for ThorSport Racing, he’s been a fixture at the front in 2025, with strong qualifying runs and impressive race pace. Majeski’s experience with tire management and his aggressive-yet-calculated driving style suit North Wilkesboro’s demanding layout.
Eckes, piloting the No. 19 for McAnally-Hilgemann Racing, has been a consistent contender all season. Always seems to find extra speed at short tracks. Eckes finished in the top ten at North Wilkesboro in 2024 and has the momentum to challenge for the win this weekend.
- Ben Rhodes
The 2021 Truck Series champion, Ben Rhodes, is always a threat on historic short tracks. Driving for ThorSport Racing, Rhodes has a knack for rising to the occasion in marquee events. His experience and racecraft make him a serious contender, especially if the race comes down to a late restart or strategy call.
A rising star in the series, Layne Riggs has impressed with his adaptability and speed in his rookie season. Competing for Spire Motorsports, Riggs has shown he can run with the veterans, especially on short tracks. His recent string of top-ten finishes and aggressive approach make him a dark horse for the win.
Other Mentions
Nick Sanchez: The reigning Rookie of the Year has shown flashes of brilliance and could break through with a strong run.
Tyler Ankrum: Consistently in the mix, Ankrum’s experience at North Wilkesboro could pay off if he avoids trouble.
News in Brief: NASCAR Truck Series Race Predictions
North Wilkesboro’s challenging surface and unique elevation changes will test drivers’ patience and skill. Tire conservation, pit strategy, and late-race restarts are likely to play a decisive role. With a mix of seasoned veterans and hungry young guns, the 2025 Window World 250 promises to deliver classic short-track drama and perhaps a new name in the track’s storied history.
ALSO READ: North Wilkesboro Speedway: Track Profile and History
