Fans have reacted with strong emotions after the official release of the NASCAR 25 driver ratings, raising concerns about the accuracy of rankings ahead of the game’s October 14 launch. This outpouring of opinions highlights how deeply invested enthusiasts are in seeing their favorite drivers represented fairly in NASCAR 25 driver ratings.
Strong Response to NASCAR 25 Driver Ratings
As iRacing Studio prepares to debut NASCAR 25 as its first authentic console NASCAR simulator, anticipation has been high among fans and players. The game features support for multiple racing series, including Cup, Xfinity, Truck, and ARCA, offering a specialized career mode, variable track types, and a comprehensive driver roster. However, the decision to implement a ranking system that scores drivers across all four national series has ignited debate.
Controversy erupted mainly after NASCAR posted the full game rankings for the Cup Series on X. The announcement revealed William Byron at the top with a 100 rating, which many fans felt did not match his career achievements, particularly since he has not yet secured a NASCAR Cup Series title. In contrast, established favorites such as two-time champion Kyle Busch (rated 84) and last season’s champion Joey Logano (rated 90) were positioned lower than expected. Fans were particularly vocal about Martin Truex Jr. (given a 63 rating) and legend Jimmie Johnson (assigned 54) receiving what they saw as undeservingly low scores.
Other notable names, including Denny Hamlin and Kyle Larson, both received ratings of 99, while Ryan Blaney followed closely at 98. Rankings for Chase Elliott, Tyler Reddick, and Chase Briscoe further fueled the sense of surprise, as all were placed ahead of Logano in the new system.
Fan Reactions Highlight Discontent
The dramatic response from the community was apparent across social platforms, as fans voiced frustration over perceived inconsistencies in the game’s system. Some questioned whether those responsible for the NASCAR 25 driver ratings fully understood the nuances of the sport.
“Simply terrible. Whoever did these needs to sit down on Sunday and actually watch a race. Because im convinced they have never done that,” a fan wrote.
“Absolute disrespect to JJ [Yeley],” another replied.
“Truex and Johnson being disrespected as legends is terrible. Also would think SVG should have 100 on Road Courses that should skew his rating to the 80s?” another fan shared.
Some enthusiasts took issue not just with individual ratings but with the philosophy of ranking drivers at all. The possibility of user-adjustable ratings, similar to the customization options in Madden NFL, became a popular talking point.
“Horrible idea to bring ratings into it,” a fan wrote.
“So taboo to give anyone a 100 rating. In any game, ever. So strange,” another replied.
“I sure hope I can change these like you can on Madden. Serious adjustments are needed,” another commented.
Early Access Reveals Mixed Impressions
Gold Edition buyers were granted early entry to NASCAR 25 three days before the official launch, with access beginning October 10. Initial feedback pointed to impressive visuals, yet several technical problems were also reported. Many players cited weak force feedback with racing wheels as a primary drawback—a point iRacing’s team promised to address urgently. Others reported game crashes during car customization in career mode, suggesting technical refinements remain necessary before widespread release.
Drivers Receiving the Top Ratings
According to game details, the NASCAR 25 driver ratings are determined based on performance across various track types: superspeedways, road courses, short tracks, and intermediate tracks. William Byron earned a perfect 100 on intermediates, while Joey Logano ranked highest on speedways. Shane van Gisbergen (SVG) achieved a 100 rating for road courses, Christopher Bell on short intermediates, and Denny Hamlin for speedways and concrete tracks.
In other NASCAR 25 national series, current Xfinity and Truck Series leaders, Connor Zilisch and Corey Heim, also received overall 100 ratings, reflecting their strong seasons within their respective divisions. These designations, while intended to mirror track records and specific skill sets, remain a major source of contention among longtime fans and new players alike.
Upcoming Launch and Future Implications
NASCAR 25 is scheduled to arrive on Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5 consoles starting October 14, with a PC release via Steam following on November 11. As the debate over NASCAR 25 driver ratings continues, fans are closely watching for any post-launch updates that might address their concerns, or offer ways to customize ratings similarly to other sports titles such as Madden.
This new chapter for the NASCAR gaming franchise, with its enhanced graphics and national series integration, underscores the importance of authenticity and fan engagement in shaping the future of motorsport simulations. The feedback from drivers, buyers, and the broader gaming audience highlights the delicate balance the organization and developers must maintain between realism and entertainment.
The best of the best take to the track in @NASCAR25Game. pic.twitter.com/kechHh20KR
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) October 10, 2025
Absolute disrespect to JJ
— Fire AB & Stefanski (@believeland2525) October 10, 2025
Truex and Johnson being disrespected as legends is terrible. Also would think SVG should have 100 on Road Courses that should skew his rating to the 80s?
— Billy Johnson (@RyanRain39) October 10, 2025
Horrible idea to bring ratings into it
— Tyler (@Tyler_Mizell9) October 10, 2025
So taboo to give anyone a 100 rating. In any game, ever. So strange.
— Tony ⛵🏁 (@ToneDawg9) October 10, 2025
I sure hope I can change these like you can on Madden. Serious adjustments are needed…
— Andrew Rhoton (@arhoton_eku) October 10, 2025
