The excitement from the NASCAR 2025 Cup Championship is rolling straight into another high-stakes contest, as the Hendrick Motorsports engine builder showdown kicks off a fresh round of spirited competition at the organization’s North Carolina base. With three Cup championships in the last six seasons under Rick Hendrick’s leadership, Hendrick Motorsports is now turning inward, challenging its brightest technicians to further sharpen their skills and teamwork in the iconic showdown named for Randy Dorton.
Intense Competition Among the Best in the Business
Beginning Thursday morning, a dozen Hendrick Motorsports engine builders join forces with twelve Hendrick Automotive Group Certified Master Technicians, working as pairs to assemble a NASCAR-style 358-cubic-inch V8 engine. Precision will be tested as each team contends with 243 engineered components, where any misstep could lead to costly penalties. The competition, streamed live on the Randy Dorton Hendrick Engine Builder Showdown, serves as a true testament to both skill and composure, with its roots honoring legendary engine expert Randy Dorton.
A Tradition of Excellence and Rivalry
Last year’s finale saw Danny Emerick of Hendrick Motorsports and Shane Flake of Hendrick Automotive claim victory, narrowly defeating the duo of Scott Vester and Joe Gagatch by just 31 seconds. This win secured Emerick his record-setting seventh career title, further cementing his reputation ahead of his 2025 return, where he hopes to claim an eighth. Previous champions in the event’s storied history include six-time winner Scott Vester, as well as two-time winners John Boydston, Jay Wiles, and Robert Marock from Honda of Concord, showcasing the depth of mechanical talent across the organization.
Uniting Rick Hendrick’s Racing and Automotive Teams
The showdown has reached its 24th anniversary, becoming a hallmark event that unites Hendrick Motorsports and Hendrick Automotive Group—the dual pillars of Rick Hendrick’s enterprise. While Hendrick Motorsports focuses on Cup Series racing success, the automotive group supports customers nationwide. Once a year, both divisions collaborate and compete, putting their technical prowess and communication to the test in this unique contest.
High Stakes, Strong Standards, and Unpredictable Matchups
The rewards extend beyond official titles. Winners will receive a brand-new, fully equipped NAPA toolbox, while the runners-up earn a mobile tool cart from NAPA. The competition spans two days, starting with four qualifying heats on Thursday and two on Friday morning, before the grand finale later that day. Pairings are determined randomly, making the head-to-head duels unpredictable and adding further excitement to the event.
Selection of Technicians and Early Leaders
Selection for the event is rigorous; the Hendrick Automotive Group’s technicians must demonstrate excellence in customer service and pass a specialized ASE certification, tailored specifically to the organization’s standards. As this year’s contest approaches, Kevin Moler and Kyle Kittell have already set the early pace, heading the leaderboard among the eight qualifying teams.
A Celebration of Skill and Collaboration
This annual engine builder showdown stands as more than just a competition; it strengthens the connection between Hendrick Motorsports and the Hendrick Automotive Group, highlights the mechanical talent found on both sides, and serves as a proving ground for future champions. With fierce rivalry, a history of close finishes, and the hopes of adding new names to its list of victors, the 2025 showdown promises to showcase the art and science of engine building at its finest.
