Matt McCall, who earned widespread recognition as Brad Keselowski’s crew chief, will have a grandstand at Southern National Motorsports Park named after him during the 2025 Thanksgiving Classic in North Carolina. The Brad Keselowski crew chief honor precedes this major Late Model Stock race, celebrating McCall’s significant impact on motorsports and his ties with fans, drivers, and the NASCAR community.
Grandstand Commemoration Marks a Unique Tribute
The Thanksgiving Classic, one of the most important annual events at Southern National Motorsports Park, has long been a stage for fierce competition among drivers and consistent performances by established names. In 2025, the event distinguishes itself by dedicating a grandstand to Matt McCall, a gesture that cements his legacy both on and off the track. McCall’s early start in racing, with more than 150 victories in karting and a debut in the ARCA Series in 2006, set the tone for his reputation as both a competitor and an influential crew chief.
McCall rose to prominence by winning the Thanksgiving Classic in back-to-back years, 2017 and 2018, in the Late Model Stock division. The Southern National Motorsports Park, recognizing his enduring connection to its history, decided to bestow this honor for his years of achievement and dedication.
“It’s a great honor to have my name become part of the Southern National Motorsports Park legacy,”
Matt McCall, former crew chief.
“I appreciate this kind gesture from Southern National and the Diaz family. I have run many laps here over the years, and now, my name will be here for years to come.”
Matt McCall, former crew chief.
This recognition highlights the respect McCall commands within the racing world, especially for fans who have followed his journey from driver to leader in the sport. The Southern National Motorsports Park and the Diaz family’s decision signals their appreciation for his lasting contributions to the venue’s story.
McCall’s Career Journey and Recent Challenges
After his achievements in Late Model Stock racing, McCall transitioned to high-profile roles within NASCAR. He joined RFK Racing as the crew chief for Brad Keselowski’s #6 Cup Series team in 2021. Although his tenure with the team brought challenges, such as inconsistent on-track results and a four-race suspension with a substantial fine following a post-race inspection in 2022, McCall’s expert approach maintained his strong reputation.
Moving forward, McCall chose not to continue his partnership with RFK Racing after the 2024 season. Instead, he accepted a new position as Director of Vehicle Performance with Spire Motorsports. This shift allowed McCall to channel his extensive knowledge into guiding teams behind the scenes, shaping performance standards for a new organization in the competitive racing landscape.
An Eventful 2025 Thanksgiving Classic—Without McCall Racing
While the 2025 Thanksgiving Classic promises an intense race weekend with 250 laps and attention-grabbing competitors like Josh Berry, McCall himself will not be racing this year. Despite the grandstand naming and his history of winning at Southern National Motorsports Park, McCall has chosen not to pursue a third career victory in the event. His absence at the starting grid is a striking note, especially for long-time fans who witnessed his past triumphs.
The race remains a highly anticipated fixture for the community, with fast-paced action expected and rules such as competitive caution flags introduced when over 50 green flag laps are completed, adding strategy and excitement. The event also reflects the evolving landscape of motorsports, spotlighting both established champions and up-and-coming performers, with nods to McCall’s significant past woven into its narrative.
The Meaning and Impact of the Tribute
Naming a grandstand after Matt McCall is a testament not just to his on-track victories, but to the respect and admiration he has garnered from fans, drivers, and event organizers at Southern National Motorsports Park and across the NASCAR world. For drivers who watched McCall’s career evolve, for the fans filling the stands each year, and for organizations such as RFK Racing and Spire Motorsports, this honor underscores his lasting influence on the sport.
The 2025 Thanksgiving Classic will go down as a milestone moment for the venue, blending tradition with fresh developments and new talent. It continues to attract widespread attention, drawing both seasoned sports fans and newcomers who share a love for motor racing. With the grandstand now bearing McCall’s name, participants and fans will continue to draw inspiration from his example as the races unfold in North Carolina, ensuring that his story remains at the heart of one of motorsports’ most celebrated events.
