Jeff Gordon, vice-chairman of Hendrick Motorsports, has reignited excitement for a possible “Days of Thunder” sequel, revealing recent discussions with Tom Cruise about the project during a Phoenix event. The prospect of “Jeff Gordon Days of Thunder” returning to the big screen aims to offer a fresh introduction of NASCAR to a new generation of viewers and fans around the world.
Gordon made these remarks while appearing on Inside The Race at Phoenix, a setting far from the film sets but close to NASCAR’s heart. He discussed his vision of a new movie not just as fan service, but as a way to spotlight the sport itself, echoing the impact of the original film in 1990, which elevated stock-car racing in popular culture. The timing, Gordon believes, could not be better. With racing films like “F1: The Movie” gaining box office traction and streaming services expanding motorsports’ reach, the ingredients for a successful sequel are coming together.
Renewed Momentum Surrounds Potential Sequel
Gordon addressed how technology has advanced tremendously since the original film, suggesting that a modern production could achieve authenticity and spectacle with a smaller, more agile crew. He also spoke about streaming opportunities for distribution, indicating an openness to feature the franchise on platforms like Amazon Prime.
“There’s this kind of resurgence… we’re streaming, we’re on Amazon Prime… I think it would be amazing to do.”
— Jeff Gordon, Vice-Chairman of Hendrick Motorsports
Gordon confirmed he reached out directly to Tom Cruise about the project, emphasizing Cruise’s value as both the original star and a potential creative collaborator.
“I’ve absolutely talked to Tom about it because I want him to do the project, and we want to be a part of it if it were to happen.”
— Jeff Gordon, Vice-Chairman of Hendrick Motorsports
Looking back, the first “Days of Thunder” was a watershed moment. It brought NASCAR’s unique rivalries and drama to Hollywood, broadening the sport’s popularity well beyond the track. Gordon referenced this legacy:
“Look what Days of Thunder did for NASCAR in the ’90s. I think it could very easily do the same if we were to do this again.”
— Jeff Gordon, Vice-Chairman of Hendrick Motorsports
The modern motorsports audience now expects more immersive storytelling and technical authenticity, a shift fueled by documentary series, social platforms, and gaming tie-ins. This context distinguishes today’s challenge from the landscape thirty-five years ago.
Authenticity and Innovation Key to Success
Gordon pointed to the necessity of on-track realism, improved equipment, and close team involvement for a “Days of Thunder” sequel to break through in both cinematic and sporting circles.
“cameras have gotten a lot smaller so maybe you could pull it off”
— Jeff Gordon, Vice-Chairman of Hendrick Motorsports
He questioned how the movie could achieve a balance between spectacle and genuine representation of the sport.
“How do you do it and make it realistic and really authentic?”
— Jeff Gordon, Vice-Chairman of Hendrick Motorsports
There is speculation that if Hendrick Motorsports joins the project—providing cars, expertise, or even co-production input—the film could elevate its credibility. This approach mirrors Lewis Hamilton’s influential role in “F1: The Movie”, where technical advice and real race elements brought a new standard of realism.
Yet despite all this excitement, little is set in stone. There is no confirmed release date or completed script, and casting remains unofficial. Late 2024 reports confirmed Tom Cruise and Paramount were engaged in talks, but the project remains in initial development stages.
Hot Topics: Story Direction and Era Debate
Details about the plot for “Days of Thunder 2” are still under wraps, with mounting discussion online about whether it should revisit NASCAR’s past or capture today’s atmosphere. Some suggest the inclusion of legacy characters, while others hope to see new drivers and even crossover moments from other motorsports series. One notable rumor links the project to Brad Pitt’s upcoming F1 film under Jerry Bruckheimer Films and Apple Original Films, prompting speculation about a crossover with the world of Formula 1.
Should the sequel come to fruition, it stands to influence not only racing on the big screen but also NASCAR’s reach worldwide. The pairing of Gordon and Cruise again holds both emotional nostalgia and bold ambition for fans and industry insiders alike.
Fans Speak Out About Their Expectations
Online discussion reflects divided opinions about the right narrative approach for “Days of Thunder 2”.
“It would be cool for a Days of Thunder 2 to go back and explore a previous generation. Like 2008 or something. Just for fun. Unfortunately, I think they’d definitely do the current era.”
— Unattributed Fan
Nostalgic fans point to the late 2000s—a time dominated by the debut of the Car of Tomorrow (COT) and intense rivalries involving drivers like Jimmie Johnson and Jeff Gordon—as ideal for the story’s focus. The 2008 NASCAR season, with its dramatic battles and Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s debut at Hendrick Motorsports, holds particular appeal. Despite that, Gordon’s own statements suggest a clear focus on the present day, shaped by cutting-edge technology and a new wave of young stars.
In a February 2025 interview with Road & Track, Gordon stated his hope for a film that would
“showcase how modern NASCAR has evolved with new technology, Next Gen cars, and younger stars.”
— Jeff Gordon, Vice-Chairman of Hendrick Motorsports
This aligns with NASCAR’s broader marketing strategy, aiming to spotlight up-and-coming drivers such as William Byron, Tyler Reddick, and Bubba Wallace, and to connect with global audiences.
Creative Vision and Director Wishlist
Among film buffs and motorsports fans, the director’s chair is a critical concern. Joseph Kosinski, celebrated for his work on “Top Gun: Maverick” and the forthcoming Brad Pitt F1 movie, is a fan favorite because of his proven experience blending high adrenaline with technical authenticity.
“Only if Kosinski directs it. It needs to be as good as Top Gun: Maverick and the F1 movie. If not, don’t bother.”
— Unattributed Fan
Kosinski’s innovative use of actual racing vehicles and cutting-edge filming methods in his recent work has set a new standard for what racing films can achieve. His tenure with action-driven franchise films is seen as a model for the quality expected in a sequel.
Fueling speculation further, one persistent rumor claims that
“DOT2 is supposed to be a crossover with the F1 movie (really).”
— Unattributed Fan
This possibility gained traction as industry reports indicated shared production connections between “Days of Thunder 2” and Pitt’s untitled F1 film, both under Jerry Bruckheimer Films and distributed by Apple Original Films. The overlap could create a unique cinematic world, merging NASCAR and Formula 1 spectacle on screen.
A Changing Landscape for Sports Movies
Younger fans have also voiced their preference for a different cinematic style, referencing successful drama-driven sports films from indie studios.
“I wish it would be an A24 NASCAR film.”
— Unattributed Fan
This reflects a call for a deeper, more emotional approach, similar to what A24 has delivered with movies like “Uncut Gems,” “The Wrestler,” and “The Iron Claw.” While some fans imagine a more intimate, character-led racing film, the involvement of Jerry Bruckheimer and Tom Cruise, combined with NASCAR’s desire for blockbuster appeal, suggests the studio will aim for high-energy, large-scale entertainment. Nevertheless, these comparisons highlight the emotional depth and authenticity fans hope to see, rivaling films like “Ford v Ferrari.”
Debates Over Corporate Involvement
Some skepticism revolves around the role of Hendrick Motorsports in producing the sequel.
“You can bet if Hendrick has anything to do with this movie, I won’t be seeing it.”
— Unattributed Fan
This sentiment signals ongoing divisions within the NASCAR fanbase over Hollywood’s relationship with real racing teams. Hendrick Motorsports, a dominant force in the sport, contributed technical support and vehicles for the original film. Legendary team owner Rick Hendrick even served as technical advisor, ensuring the depiction of racing was both accurate and thrilling.
However, critics continue to argue that NASCAR movies should reflect the breadth and diversity of the sport, rather than prioritize one team’s history or influence. While Gordon has stated he wants Hendrick Motorsports
“to be part of the project”
— Jeff Gordon, Vice-Chairman of Hendrick Motorsports, some fans fear this might come at the expense of unbiased storytelling.
Looking Ahead: What the Sequel Could Mean for NASCAR
Should “Days of Thunder 2” move forward, the cultural stakes are high for NASCAR, Jeff Gordon, Tom Cruise, and Hollywood. A successful sequel could boost NASCAR’s brand internationally, engage Gen Z audiences, and renew interest in stock-car racing both as a sport and a cinematic subject. For many fans, the prospect of Cruise reprising his role—possibly alongside Gordon and today’s rising stars—holds both nostalgic value and the potential for fresh, high-octane storytelling.
As discussions evolve and the script takes shape, the racing, sports cinema, and global fandom communities will be watching for every new detail. Whether the next chapter pays tribute to the past or rushes full throttle into the future, “Jeff Gordon Days of Thunder” promises to keep both the racing and entertainment worlds buzzing.
[Inside The Race 27:00] Jeff Gordon hints at Days of Thunder 2 again
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