Dale Earnhardt Jr CARS Tour return will see the legendary NASCAR driver back behind the wheel at Anderson Motor Speedway in South Carolina this weekend, several months after a crash cut short his previous appearance in the series. Despite his April setback, Earnhardt is determined to make a strong comeback and show his fans that his competitive spirit remains as fierce as ever.
The 50-year-old former Cup Series star is set to compete in the No. 8 Budweiser MLB car, marking his second entry in the CARS Tour this season. During his last race in April, a late incident during a restart dashed his hopes, landing him a disappointing finish in 21st place. However, the crash has not deterred him from giving it another shot, driven by a desire for redemption and a love for short-track racing.
Earnhardt’s Perspective and Preparation for the Challenge Ahead
Earnhardt is approaching this weekend’s event with a clear mindset, focusing on preparation and learning from previous experiences rather than lingering on past mistakes. He recently spoke about his outlook on his Dale Jr. Download podcast, encapsulating his determination for the return:
“I feel good,” Earnhardt stated, reflecting on his anticipation for returning to racing in 2025. He emphasized his preparation for the event, explaining that he has spent about three hours testing at Anderson Motor Speedway, ensuring that he is both physically and mentally ready to compete at a high level.
This Saturday’s doubleheader, featuring both the Late Model Stock Car and Pro Late Model races, presents a fresh challenge compared to his prior attempt. Earnhardt has identified qualifying position as a key factor, especially with recent changes to the tires being used in the series. The veteran racer has long been known for managing his tires during races, but he recognizes how the new, more robust tire compound will affect strategy. As Earnhardt put it,
the new tire this year is just too durable.
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., Driver, Co-owner
With less tire degradation expected over the course of the race, drivers may have fewer opportunities to use pit strategy to gain ground, making starting position more crucial for a good result.
Facing Qualifying Difficulties and Chasing a Meaningful Moment
While Earnhardt is optimistic about his race performance, he acknowledges that qualifying remains one of his longtime challenges. Historically, qualifying has never been Earnhardt’s strength throughout his NASCAR career. In his last CARS Tour start, he began the race in 15th place—a result he considers solid given his admitted struggles in single-lap formats.
During his discussion with podcast co-host and friend TJ Majors, Earnhardt openly admitted that qualifying has often been his weak spot, prompting friendly banter between the longtime friends. Knowing that Saturday’s grid position is likely to influence his final result, he remains focused on doing the best he can during the qualifying round.
Adding extra motivation for Earnhardt is the special throwback paint scheme he will race with at Anderson Motor Speedway. The car will feature the same Budweiser No. 8 “baseball” livery that he drove to a memorable win at the 2001 Pepsi 400 in Daytona. That victory, which came only months after the passing of his father, is widely remembered as one of NASCAR’s most emotional moments and holds deep personal meaning for Earnhardt.
Eager to combine redemption, nostalgia, and the thrill of competing again, Earnhardt is looking forward to battling alongside fellow drivers as the green flag waves this weekend in South Carolina.
Anticipation Builds for Earnhardt’s CARS Tour Comeback
Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s return to the CARS Tour is more than a race—it symbolizes resilience, the joy of competition, and the power of racing history for fans and the driver alike. With improved preparation, a renewed sense of determination, and the emotional weight of a historic livery, Earnhardt’s performance at Anderson Motor Speedway is sure to attract attention from across the NASCAR community and beyond. As the weekend approaches, all eyes will be on the storied track to see how the NASCAR Hall of Famer’s latest chapter unfolds.
