Hendrick Motorsports has shared a special collection of rarely seen “Days of Thunder” photos, delighting racing and film fans with fresh glimpses from behind the scenes. This release comes as anticipation grows around Hendrick Motorsports Days of Thunder, especially with talk of a possible sequel involving Tom Cruise and the storied NASCAR organization.
Behind the Scenes with Legendary Names
The newly revealed photo set features a range of candid moments with Tom Cruise, Rick Hendrick, Geoff Bodine, and other pivotal figures from the original movie’s production. For many enthusiasts, these snapshots open a window into the making of the racing classic over three decades ago, capturing moments that have long remained out of the public eye.
Among the most striking images are those documenting a 1987 IMSA event at Road Atlanta, where Cruise partnered with Rick Hendrick behind the wheel of a Nissan 300ZX Turbo. Despite their promising start, mechanical issues affected their final result in the race, adding a genuine layer of motorsports authenticity to the collection.
Fans can explore this rich visual archive by visiting the Hendrick Motorsports website, which hosts a gallery offering an intimate look at the team when it was still carving its legacy in racing history. These images shed light on foundational years for both Hendrick Motorsports and the Cup Series.
The Evolution of Hendrick Motorsports
Since the release of “Days of Thunder” in 1990, Hendrick Motorsports has grown dramatically, accumulating numerous victories and championships and shaping the modern era of NASCAR. The organization’s transformation is evident when comparing the early days—when Mr. H, as Rick Hendrick is affectionately known, worked closely with Tom Cruise—to its current dominant presence in the Cup Series.
The current roster remains impressive. Kyle Larson recently celebrated his second championship, and William Byron narrowly missed taking the title for a third straight year. Decades ago, Hendrick Motorsports operated on a much smaller scale, but their relentless drive and competitive spirit now lead the way in top-tier racing.
As the sport has evolved, so has Hendrick Motorsports, embracing every major NASCAR initiative and staying at the forefront of new ventures. If “Days of Thunder 2” goes into production, Hendrick’s deep roots and ongoing influence in the racing world make it likely they would play a significant role once again.
Looking Ahead to More Success on the Track
The upcoming 2026 NASCAR season has fans wagering that Hendrick Motorsports will match or improve on the success seen in recent years. Projections suggest that both Kyle Larson and William Byron are each poised for approximately five wins, while Chase Elliott is expected to secure two or three victories. Alex Bowman is also forecasted to claim at least one race and maintain a solid standing among the sport’s best.
Larson and Byron have been especially dominant in the Next Gen era, consistently leading the field in wins since 2022. The organization now boasts three drivers with clear championship potential and a fourth competitor capable of strong performances.
Another major storyline centers on the debut of a new Chevrolet Camaro body for Hendrick Motorsports. Racing experts and fans alike are eager to see how the team leverages the new design, downforce configurations, and speed opportunities to stay at the cutting edge of NASCAR competition.
As Hendrick Motorsports continues to expand its legacy, these rare “Days of Thunder” images offer compelling insight into their remarkable journey, while excitement for the future remains as intense as ever.
