The NASCAR Snowball Derby starting lineup for 2025 is set, as several famed drivers from across the sport prepare to compete at Five Flag Speedway in Pensacola, Florida, on Sunday, December 7, at 1 pm CT. The event, recognized as the highlight of Super Late Model racing, will be streamed live on FloRacing, drawing both established NASCAR competitors and leading short-track racers.
Key Details from Qualifying Sessions
Saturday evening featured both qualifying runs and a 25-lap Last Chance Qualifier (LCQ), resulting in a 36-car grid for the Sunday showdown. Preston Peltier, making his return to this prestigious competition, secured the pole position with a remarkably fast lap of 16.240 seconds, earning his second career pole at the Snowball Derby. Alongside Peltier at the front of the field is Ty Majeski, the 2024 NASCAR Truck Series champion and a previous pole winner, who posted a lap time of 16.301 seconds and is known for his two previous victories at the Derby.
Top Contenders to Watch
Filling out the top five positions are Hudson Bulger, a part-time participant in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, Jake Finch, and Spencer Davis. Following closely in the initial lineup are Michael Atwell, Jace Hansen, Truck Series team owner David Gilliland, Haedon Plybon, and Kasey Kleyn, rounding out the top 10 competitors set to start the race.
Notable NASCAR Competitors in the Field
Kyle Busch, who holds two NASCAR Cup Series championships and two previous Derby wins, delivered a commanding performance by leading the entire 25-lap LCQ to earn his place in Sunday’s main event. Busch will start 31st in the 36-driver lineup. Other notable NASCAR figures in the starting order include Cup driver Ryan Preece, set to begin in the 27th slot, and Truck Series racer Jake Garcia, who will take off from position 34.
The Complete Starting Grid for 2025
The finalized NASCAR Snowball Derby starting lineup at Five Flag Speedway, determined by a blend of qualifying lap times and LCQ results, brings together a unique mix of NASCAR stars and talented local racers. The event is expected to offer intense competition on Pensacola’s iconic half-mile track, with anticipation rising among racing fans eager to witness how veterans like Ty Majeski and Kyle Busch handle the challenge alongside rising talents such as Hudson Bulger, Jake Finch, and Haedon Plybon.
With a strong field now confirmed, spectators can expect a gripping contest featuring tight battles and strategic driving as the 2025 Snowball Derby approaches. This annual event remains a crown jewel in short-track racing, promising excitement for both fans and participants alike.
No worries for Kyle Busch – He easily wins the Last Chance Qualifier and makes the Snowball Derby field
Erik Jones fails to qualify as does Noah Gragson, whose car had been dealing with mechanical gremlins. pic.twitter.com/BRKCbDs338
— Steven Taranto (@STaranto92) December 7, 2025
