NASCAR will break from its long-running tradition during the upcoming points race in Mexico by introducing a podium ceremony for the top three finishers, a concept closely tied to Michael McDowell’s vision for broader recognition in the sport. The move to honor drivers beyond the winner addresses calls for change and builds excitement among fans eager for new traditions in stock car racing, highlighting the Michael McDowell proposed NASCAR podium celebration for top finishers.
Podium Ceremonies Move From Exhibitions to Points Races
While the sight of a podium celebration is familiar in series such as Formula One and IndyCar, NASCAR has largely reserved such honors for the victor alone. Exceptions have occurred at non-points exhibition events like the Clash at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum from 2022 through 2024, where top finishers received gold, silver, and bronze medals—a nod to the Olympic spirit. These rare instances have now paved the way for podium celebrations to make their official debut following a Cup Series points race in Mexico, marking a significant shift in how the sport showcases achievement.
Michael McDowell’s Influence on the New Celebration
Michael McDowell, currently a driver for Spire Motorsports, revealed that he suggested the idea of post-race podiums to NASCAR leadership years ago. McDowell’s background in disciplines where podium recognition is standard propelled him to advocate for similar changes in stock car racing, believing it offers substantial benefits for teams, sponsors, and participants.
“Well, I love it. I know that that’s not traditionally what our sport has done, but I’m not traditionally from the sport,”
—Michael McDowell, Driver
He emphasized the sense of accomplishment a podium finish can bring, even if it is not quite equivalent to a victory.
“It’s not victory lane, but it’s close to it. It’s fun to be able to do that and celebrate that as a team. I think that, for me, I’m used to that. That’s what I grew up (doing) — podiums all the way from karting, through open wheel cars and sports cars.”
—Michael McDowell, Driver
Recalling earlier discussions with Ben Kennedy, NASCAR Executive Vice President, McDowell noted the gradual acceptance of the idea and its potential to enhance recognition for drivers throughout the field:
“I actually brought this up to Ben Kennedy (NASCAR Executive VP) like four or five years ago. And he was like, ‘I kind of like it, but I’m not sure if I love it.’ So maybe this is just the first step to adding a podium, just because of the value it adds,”
—Michael McDowell, Driver
Fans Welcome New Traditions in NASCAR
The forthcoming podium celebration for the top three finishers in Xfinity and Cup races in Mexico has been met with enthusiasm from NASCAR fans, with many expressing that new post-race festivities can add significant meaning to performing well outside of first place. Supporters argue that celebrating second and third places as well can boost engagement and community excitement.
“Would personally like to see more podiums. More post race festivities, the better. Gives real meaning to 2nd and 3rd. Would actually mean a lot more with a full season points format but that’s another conversation,”
—Fan
“Yep, literally no downside to celebrating podiums. Allow people still to be psyched for their driver and raise engagement across the board,”
—Fan
“I actually love the podium idea. NASCAR is the only major Motorsport that doesn’t have podiums (that I can recall). I don’t really see any negatives.”
—Fan
“I love this. More fun, more celebrations sounds good to me.”
—Fan
Importance and Likely Impact of Recognizing Top Finishers
Although podium finishes are not currently counted as official statistics within NASCAR, the new celebration format highlights outstanding achievements, such as the six top-three finishes held by Christopher Bell, Denny Hamlin, and Kyle Larson in 2025. McDowell’s hope is that this innovation will foster a culture that honors consistent excellence, much like Formula One, where places beyond the winner have tangible recognition—recently exemplified by Carson Hocevar’s high-profile second-place result.
As NASCAR introduces the Michael McDowell proposed NASCAR podium celebration for top finishers, the response points toward broader acceptance and anticipation for increased festivities at more venues. Should the format prove successful in Mexico, it may signal a lasting change in how the organization celebrates its drivers’ efforts, better reflecting the sport’s intense competition and the value teams bring across the finishing order.
