Rick Hendrick’s involvement in NASCAR has always been unmistakable, but during the 2025 Cup Series season, the renowned team owner was less visible at the track, causing many to question the reasons behind his absence. As speculation grew among fans and insiders, Hendrick addressed the situation, explaining the real factors affecting his attendance, clarifying his ongoing role and impact within Hendrick Motorsports and the larger NASCAR community.
Reasons Behind Rick Hendrick’s Decreased Track Presence in 2025
While Rick Hendrick was present to see Kyle Larson secure the Cup Series title at Phoenix Raceway, his appearances at racetracks through the 2025 season were notably limited. Instead of spectating races across the country, Hendrick spent more time at home in Charlotte, North Carolina.
During a Zoom conversation with reporters in the week before the season’s final race, Hendrick openly discussed his absence. He shared that his responsibilities extend well beyond the garage, balancing his role as team owner with overseeing a large network of car dealerships and managing personal health concerns.
“I think my job is during the week and when the crew chiefs are back here, knowing what they need,”
Rick Hendrick, Team Owner
Hendrick pointed out that he spends weekdays supporting his crew chiefs and addressing the needs of both the team and his dealerships. Recent surgery on his leg also contributed to his reduced travel, making it challenging to attend as many races in person as he has in past seasons.
“But I do have the ability to listen to every guy and to monitor what’s going on and be the Monday morning quarterback, (with questions like), ‘Why did you do this, why did you do that?’”
Rick Hendrick, Team Owner
Even while away from the racetrack, Hendrick stays deeply connected with his staff and operations, keeping up with race strategies and maintaining dialogue with crew members after each event.
Hendrick’s Continued Influence and Communication
Hendrick emphasized his ongoing trust in his team as well as his persistent involvement, whether in person or remotely. Armed with confidence in the people around him, he seeks to contribute wherever he can benefit the organization most.
“I’m very confident in the people we have,”
Rick Hendrick, Team Owner
Despite expressing that he misses the thrill of weekly race-day energy, Hendrick acknowledged the substantial responsibilities on his plate, reaffirming that he remains in regular contact with his crew regardless of his location.
“Hopefully, you’ll see me more next year. I kind of like my role as I can watch, listen and critique.”
Rick Hendrick, Team Owner
Hendrick’s approach to leadership includes humor and humility, making it clear that his engagement is genuine but not overbearing. He is known for his advisory style and frequent check-ins, acting as a mentor while letting his experienced team execute on race days.
Jeff Gordon and the Ongoing Team Dynamic
The dynamics within Hendrick Motorsports show Hendrick’s preference for staying involved, especially in celebratory moments such as post-race victories. Jeff Gordon, the team’s vice chairman and a former champion under Hendrick, jokingly receives reminders about keeping Hendrick included after wins.
“I have to remind Jeff Gordon, ‘Don’t forget me now. I want to talk to the driver when we win,’”
Rick Hendrick, Team Owner
There have been playful incidents where Hendrick missed opportunities to immediately congratulate his drivers due to minor oversights, a detail he recounts with a sense of humor.
“I wouldn’t speak to him for a week. Wouldn’t even talk to him. I said, ‘I’m not talking to you anymore.’”
Rick Hendrick, Team Owner
Staying Engaged Behind the Scenes
Regardless of his physical presence at races, Hendrick manages to keep a close eye on every detail of the team’s work, from technical updates to overall operations. His involvement has been pivotal in building Hendrick Motorsports into a record-setting organization with more than 320 Cup Series victories since 1984.
“He knows when the engines come off the dynos. He knows what we’re working on in the wind tunnel or on sim,”
Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman
Gordon praised Hendrick’s remarkable capacity to juggle diverse responsibilities in both NASCAR and the automotive business. His dedication ensures team members remain driven and united toward shared goals.
“He has a lot on his plate. I’ve never seen anybody that has the capacity and the energy to be involved in the things that he’s so passionate about. He’s an incredible leader for us to know that somebody is there that is that involved and engaged in everything we do.”
Jeff Gordon, Vice Chairman
Impact of Rick Hendrick’s Approach and What the Future Holds
Rick Hendrick’s evolving pattern of NASCAR involvement reflects an adaptive leadership style, balancing traditional attendance with modern remote management. His visible and behind-the-scenes impact continues to drive Hendrick Motorsports’ success, providing stability during periods of change. As Hendrick hints at returning to a more frequent track presence next season, both his team and NASCAR fans can anticipate his passionate influence continuing to shape the sport.
