Chris Buescher seeks first 2025 NASCAR Cup win after narrowly falling short at Michigan International Speedway, finishing just behind Denny Hamlin in a determined effort. The RFK Racing driver remains winless this season, while reflecting on missed opportunities that could have changed the outcome of Sunday’s race.
Buescher’s Near Victory in Michigan
On Sunday at Michigan, Chris Buescher came within reach of his first NASCAR Cup Series win of 2025, crossing the line right behind Denny Hamlin. Piloting the No. 17 Ford, Buescher showed considerable speed and promise, especially in the closing laps where more time on track might have meant a different result for the RFK Racing team. Though the outcome was disappointing, Buescher expressed gratitude for his team’s hard work and noted their improvement compared to recent uneven performances.
“That was such a fast Mustang,”
—Chris Buescher, driver, via NBC Sports
Buescher openly shouldered the responsibility for not catching Hamlin, expressing that strategic decisions during the race might have reversed their positions. He stated his disappointment at the missed opportunity and attributed it to his own judgment during critical moments.
“I really appreciate everybody on this team working so hard to put us in this situation and to have a chance to win. I’m disappointed I didn’t get it done. It’s on me. I had a couple different decisions I would love to go back and make and ultimately should have had us ahead of the No. 11. We were faster on the day and I didn’t do a good enough job.”
—Chris Buescher, driver, via NBC Sports
Building Momentum Despite Setbacks
Despite not clinching the win, the strong Michigan run has given Buescher and his team renewed confidence. He acknowledged the importance of making their own good fortune through hard work and speed on the track. Unlike previous weeks, they avoided misfortune this time and were able to challenge for the victory late in the race.
Buescher explained the struggle of witnessing their competitive car fall short. The frustration of being so close to winning with a capable car was evident as he reiterated the need to execute better behind the wheel.
“After the last handful of weeks with having speed in the first stage and qualifying and not being able to get the race finish that was certainly big, but it’s frustrating to be that close and to know that we had a car that was capable of winning. I just needed to do a better job.”
—Chris Buescher, driver, via NBC Sports
Season Performance and Playoff Outlook
Chris Buescher’s 2025 campaign has had its ups and downs, yet he remains a strong contender in the Cup Series standings, currently holding 12th place overall. With seven top ten results in 15 races, including two top five finishes, Buescher’s consistent presence at the front has kept him in playoff contention. However, with only 15 laps led this season and no victory yet, his spot in the playoffs is not guaranteed.
This close call at Michigan echoes his 2024 experience where a win was needed to secure a postseason berth. Satisfied neither with being consistent nor with coming close, Buescher’s pursuit of that elusive victory continues to intensify.
Upcoming Opportunities and What Lies Ahead
Looking to shake off second place, Chris Buescher will next attempt to reach Victory Lane as the series heads to Mexico City. With RFK Racing showing speed and reliability, he will again be a driver to watch on diverse tracks in upcoming races. Buescher is quietly building momentum and could break through at any time in this competitive NASCAR Cup Series season.
