Every May, the NASCAR Cup Series takes a break from points racing and turns up the drama for one of its most iconic non-points events—the NASCAR All-Star Race. This fan-favorite exhibition has showcased thrilling battles, big money prizes, and unforgettable moments since its inception in 1985. What started as a one-off spectacle at Charlotte Motor Speedway has now become an annual celebration of speed, skill, and star power, with a rotating cast of the best drivers competing for a million-dollar prize and bragging rights.
As the 2025 edition of the All-Star Race approaches, the spotlight shifts to Kyle Larson. The Hendrick Motorsports driver is one of the most dominant talents of this generation, and his All-Star success proves it. He sits within striking distance of NASCAR royalty on the all-time All-Star Race wins list. Here’s a look at where Larson stands among the best to ever do it, and how his record compares to other legends of the sport.
#5 – Joey Logano: Still Climbing the All-Star Ladder
Joey Logano may be one of the newer faces in the NASCAR veterans club, but his credentials are already well-established. The two-time Cup Series champion has collected multiple big wins, including the Daytona 500, and his All-Star résumé is impressive as well.
Logano earned his first All-Star Race victory nearly a decade ago, taming the tight turns of Charlotte Motor Speedway with a mix of aggression and precision. In that race, he edged out a handful of fellow full-time drivers who are still competing today. With Team Penske behind him and a well-rounded skillset, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Logano add more All-Star hardware to his trophy case in the near future.
#4 – Jeff Gordon: Mr. Million Dollar Moment
When it comes to NASCAR legends, Jeff Gordon’s name is forever etched in bold. A four-time Cup Series champion and one of Hendrick Motorsports’ most iconic drivers, Gordon has long been known for his ability to rise to the occasion—and the All-Star Race was no exception.
Gordon took his first All-Star victory in 1995, the same season he earned his first championship. That coincidence turned into a trend, as he repeated the feat in both 1997 and 2001—years that also ended with him hoisting the Cup. Gordon’s signature #24 Chevrolet and rainbow paint schemes are still beloved by fans today, and his three All-Star wins helped solidify his reputation as a clutch performer on NASCAR’s biggest stages.
Joey Logano wins the #NASCAR All-Star Race! pic.twitter.com/NZrBFmJP86
— FOX: NASCAR (@NASCARONFOX) May 20, 2024
#3 – Dale Earnhardt Sr.: The Intimidator Shined Bright Under the Lights
Few drivers in NASCAR history had the commanding presence of Dale Earnhardt Sr. Known as “The Intimidator,” the seven-time champion built a legacy on hard-nosed racing and winning when it mattered most. That mindset served him well in All-Star competition.
Earnhardt captured three All-Star Race victories during his remarkable 27-year Cup career, matching his success in championship campaigns. Interestingly, his success in the All-Star Race also passed down a generation. His son, Dale Earnhardt Jr., would go on to win the event as well, further establishing the Earnhardt family name in All-Star lore.
#2 – Kyle Larson: The Modern-Day Maestro of All-Star Racing
Kyle Larson’s ascent in NASCAR has been rapid and ruthless. A versatile talent with wins on every kind of track, Larson has already made his mark in All-Star competition with three wins—each representing a different phase of his career.
His first All-Star victory came while driving for Chip Ganassi Racing in the #42 car, surprising the field with a brilliant drive. But it was with Hendrick Motorsports where Larson truly cemented his place among the greats, adding wins in 2021—the same year he won the Cup title—and again in 2023. Now heading into the 2025 race at North Wilkesboro Speedway, Larson has a golden chance to tie the all-time leader. If he pulls it off, it would be his fourth win in just a few short years—a staggering accomplishment in a race that’s often a toss-up.
#1 – Jimmie Johnson: The King of All-Star Consistency
At the very top of the All-Star mountain stands Jimmie Johnson. The seven-time Cup Series champion not only holds records for his title run between 2006 and 2010, but also for his success in the All-Star Race. Johnson has taken home the million-dollar prize four times, the most of any driver in the event’s nearly 40-year history.
Whether it was Charlotte under the lights or Texas under the heat, Johnson had a knack for saving his best stuff for the All-Star spotlight. He knew when to conserve and when to charge, and that racecraft made him a master of exhibition racing. With four victories in the event, Johnson still holds the edge—though Larson is breathing down his neck.
News in Brief: Who Has Won the Most NASCAR All-Star Races
The NASCAR All-Star Race may not hand out championship points, but it has always been a litmus test for greatness. Legends have used it to showcase their dominance, young guns have used it as a breakout platform, and veterans have leaned on it to prove they’ve still got what it takes. Kyle Larson is the newest name threatening to take over the top spot, and if his past success is any indication, fans might be witnessing history at North Wilkesboro this weekend.
With Jimmie Johnson’s mark of four wins within reach, Larson enters the 2025 race with a chance to rewrite the All-Star record books. No matter what happens Sunday night, one thing is certain: the All-Star Race remains a battleground for NASCAR’s elite.
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