A wave of excitement surged through NASCAR fans when a misleading entry list suggested a return to the pit box for the legendary Dale Earnhardt Jr., sparking speculation around the Dale Earnhardt Jr. crew chief rumor. This frenzy was short-lived, however, as JR Motorsports clarified it was simply a clerical mistake ahead of the Sonoma race weekend in California.
Entry List Mix-up Fuels Fan Frenzy
After the double-header in Chicago, NASCAR’s attention shifted west to the Sonoma Mountains for the Xfinity Series’ FoodMaxx 250. The detailed entry list released by NASCAR included 39 teams, but one item in particular grabbed attention: Dale Earnhardt Jr. was listed as crew chief for Connor Zilisch’s No. 88 car. As soon as the list circulated, speculation ran rampant on social media, with many hoping to see the two-time Daytona 500 winner and team owner return to a leadership role on race day.
The idea of Earnhardt heading up the pit crew brought a sense of nostalgia and excitement, especially since he had recently made his crew chief debut under special circumstances. However, as hopes soared, reality soon caught up.
Clarification from Team and Journalists
Racing reporter Toby Christie was quick to address the situation, confirming directly with JR Motorsports that the entry list error was not signaling a special comeback. Instead, it was an unfortunate administrative mistake. As Christie stated,
JR Motorsports has confirmed the listing of Dale Earnhardt Jr. as Connor Zilisch’s crew chief on the entry list was a mistake, and Earnhardt will not serve as the crew chief this weekend.
— Toby Christie (@Toby_Christie) July 7, 2025
Further reinforcing the clarification, FOX reporter Bob Pockrass posted the corrected entry list and explained how Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s name ended up attached to Zilisch. According to Pockrass,
DaleJr is not crew chief for Zilisch this weekend. I believe what happens is with the electronic entry list when you fill it in, there are drop downs and since now that he is in the system, just a miscue on the entry list.
— Bob Pockrass, FOX Sports Reporter
Amid the confusion, it was confirmed that Mardy Lindley, the regular crew chief for the No. 88, will resume his responsibilities for the race at Sonoma. This correction closed the door on any further rumors that Earnhardt would be stepping into the crew chief role for Zilisch this weekend.
Background of Recent Crew Chief Developments
The mix-up seemed more believable to skeptical fans given Earnhardt’s recent involvement as a crew chief. Not long ago, Mardy Lindley was suspended for one race after an incident at Nashville, prompting Dale Earnhardt Jr. to step in as crew chief at Pocono. In that appearance, Earnhardt’s guidance played a key role as Zilisch celebrated a hard-fought victory, further fueling enthusiasm among supporters over a potential comeback in the crew chief position.
Nevertheless, this recent episode regarding the Sonoma event was nothing more than an electronic error—and not a signal that Earnhardt was about to reclaim the pit box as crew chief for the No. 88 team.
Looking Ahead Amid Clarified Roles
While the initial misunderstanding sparked passionate conversation and highlighted the anticipation around Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s further involvement in NASCAR operations, the official word from JR Motorsports and supporting journalists settles the matter: Earnhardt’s stint as crew chief was a rare occurrence, and fans should not expect to see him listed in that role this weekend. As the Xfinity Series heads to Sonoma for its road course challenge, Connor Zilisch and Mardy Lindley will maintain their well-established partnership for JR Motorsports.
This event serves as a reminder of how quickly rumors can circulate in the high-speed world of NASCAR, especially when past achievements and current rosters converge on such a storied name as Earnhardt’s. With the situation cleared up, all eyes turn to Saturday’s race, as the true team behind the No. 88 looks to leave a mark at Sonoma.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Dale Earnhardt Jr. a billionaire?
A. By 2025, Dale Earnhardt Jr. expects to have a net worth of about $300 million. His wealth mainly comes from his successful NASCAR driving career and his current job as a broadcaster. He also stays active by endorsing products, owning a racing team, and forming partnerships, which help him grow his influence.
Q. Will Dale Earnhardt Jr. ever race again?
A. Dale Earnhardt Jr., a NASCAR favorite, is preparing to race again in 2025. Fans can look forward to seeing him drive his famous No. car once more.
Q. Will Dale Earnhardt Jr. race again?
A. Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s 2025 racing plans are starting to become clear. We know he has at least one race lined up. Unsurprisingly, the two-time Daytona 500 winner will race in Timmonsville, South Carolina. This event will take place at Florence Motor Speedway.
