Ross Chastain is planning to take on an intense slate in his Ross Chastain NASCAR 2025 plans, targeting the limit under new NASCAR rules to compete in 56 national series races next year. Speaking ahead of qualifying at Phoenix Raceway, Chastain confirmed he intends to enter every allowable event across the NASCAR Cup, Xfinity, and Craftsman Truck Series after rule changes expanded opportunities for Cup drivers in the lower divisions.
NASCAR Alters Rules, Increasing Race Eligibility for Cup Drivers
NASCAR announced on Saturday at Phoenix Raceway that beginning in 2026, Cup Series competitors will be able to race in as many as ten Xfinity Series events sponsored by O’Reilly’s Auto Parts, as well as up to eight NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series races. The change marks a notable increase, designed to encourage greater participation by established drivers in the sport’s lower tiers.
Among all drivers, Ross Chastain, who previously maxed out his race participation in both the Xfinity and Truck series, stands out in anticipation of the opportunity. The Trackhouse Racing driver expressed clear enthusiasm, with his statement to Road & Track capturing his passion:
“I plan to be in as many races as possible. I love racing and I think it’s the best thing I can do.”
— Ross Chastain, Driver
Assembling a 56-Race Season: Chastain’s Detailed Approach
With plans to enter all 38 Cup races, ten Xfinity events, and eight truck races, Chastain is already organizing the extensive logistics for next season. He emphasized the significance of maximizing track time, explaining how running multiple races in one weekend can help fine-tune his approach for major Cup Series contests. This dedication was apparent during the previous spring’s Charlotte events, where Chastain placed fourth in the truck race and followed up with a dramatic victory in the Coca-Cola 600, driving from the back of the field in a backup car.
Intent to Compete, Not Just Participate
Chastain is intent on ensuring his extensive Ross Chastain NASCAR 2025 plans amount to true competition rather than simply fulfilling appearances. He reiterated that his commitment is to quality participation rather than just hitting a number, saying:
“Trackhouse is in full support of it. They want me in fast vehicles, they’re doing everything they can on Sunday to put me in fast cars and they expect that the Xfinity and trucks teams I drive for to also be that way. No more start-and-parks to hit the number, I definitly want to be in all of them.”
— Ross Chastain, Driver
This view is backed by Trackhouse Racing, which expects Chastain to remain competitive across all entered races, avoiding “start-and-park” scenarios where drivers enter but do not seriously compete.
High Stakes Remain for the Season Closer
Despite missing the playoffs after the Round of 12 cutoff at the Charlotte Roval, Chastain is set to compete in the final event of the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series championship with high motivation. He currently trails Bubba Wallace by a slim twelve-point margin in the battle for the final spot within the championship’s top ten, underscoring the ongoing significance of every remaining race.
What the Expanded Schedule Means for NASCAR
The expanded race allowance reflects a broader change in NASCAR’s approach, aiming to inject more excitement and drive into its national series, giving drivers like Ross Chastain the platform to showcase their versatility and stamina. The move could also influence strategy and breed deeper competition by increasing crossover between the sport’s top drivers and up-and-coming talent across divisions. Fans are poised to witness some of the most ambitious multi-series racing efforts in recent memory, notably led by Chastain’s pursuit of a full 56-race campaign next year.
