Major NASCAR Xfinity Series Changes: As the NASCAR season progresses toward the 2024 playoffs, insider reports suggest remarkable transformations within the Xfinity Series, particularly amid the backdrop of the impending “silly season.” With Stewart-Haas Racing‘s anticipated closure and a potential overhaul at Joe Gibbs Racing, emerging drivers like Riley Herbst are positioned to capitalize on these shifts. Moreover, the CW Network’s recent acquisition of broadcasting rights introduces a noteworthy dynamic in NASCAR’s media strategy. Such developments raise critical questions about team alignments and driver movements that could redefine the competitive landscape in 2025. What implications will these changes have for the future of the series?
Key Highlights
- Freddie Kraft hints at significant driver shifts for the 2025 season, impacting teams like Joe Gibbs Racing and JR Motorsports.
- The closure of Stewart-Haas Racing in 2025 leads to potential opportunities for drivers like Riley Herbst to secure new placements.
- 23XI Racing is considering expanding to a third full-time car, altering the driver lineup landscape.
- The CW Network will take over Xfinity Series coverage in 2025, marking a major shift in NASCAR’s broadcasting strategy.
- The ongoing performance evaluations will influence future team dynamics and driver movements as the playoffs approach.
Xfinity Series Resumes with 2024 Playoffs in Focus
As the Xfinity Series gears up to resume racing in Michigan, the stakes are higher than ever with the 2024 playoffs looming on the horizon. With only five races remaining before the playoff cut-off, drivers are acutely aware that their performance in the upcoming Cabo Wabo 250 could determine their fate in the postseason. This critical crossroads in the season heightens the competitive atmosphere, as contenders vie not only for points but also for the psychological edge that comes with securing a playoff berth.
The hiatus has provided teams with a tactical pause, allowing them to assess their performances and recalibrate their approaches. Key drivers who are on the bubble will need to capitalize on this opportunity to refine their strategies, strengthen their pit crews, and fine-tune their vehicles to tackle the unique challenges of Michigan International Speedway.
Historically, this track has been a proving ground for both veterans and newcomers, amplifying the intensity of the competition as drivers push their limits to secure a spot in the playoffs.
Moreover, the impact of the 2025 silly season adds an extra layer of complexity. While the upcoming races will focus on immediate performance, the backdrop of potential driver movements is likely to influence team dynamics and driver morale.
Freddie Kraft’s Rumored Driver Movements
The anticipation surrounding the Xfinity Series is further intensified by the recent comments from NASCAR spotter Freddie Kraft regarding potential driver movements for the 2025 season. His insights, shared during the August 12 episode of Door Bumper Clear, have sparked considerable speculation about forthcoming shifts within key teams such as Joe Gibbs Racing and JR Motorsports.
If these rumors materialize, the implications could reverberate throughout all three National Touring Series.
Kraft’s remarks suggest that the upcoming driver changes may not be limited to a single team or a handful of competitors. Instead, they could signify a broader realignment within the sport, impacting driver careers and team dynamics similarly.
Key points to reflect on include:
- Potential veteran drivers moving to new teams in search of revitalization.
- The emergence of new talent, possibly overshadowing established names.
- Tactical partnerships or alliances forming between teams to enhance competitiveness.
- The role of sponsorship in influencing driver placements, especially amidst shifting market conditions.
The decisions made in the coming months will not only reshape the Xfinity Series but could also set the tone for the comprehensive competitive landscape within NASCAR.
Kraft’s predictions, while speculative, provide a valuable lens through which to analyze the evolving dynamics of the sport and the tactics teams might employ as they navigate this period of change.
Key Driver Rumors and Team Changes
A wave of speculation surrounds the Xfinity Series as driver rumors intensify ahead of the playoffs. The series, once viewed primarily as a developmental league, has evolved into a highly competitive arena, often rivaling the excitement of its Cup counterparts. Recent performances, such as Riley Herbst’s victory for Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR) by a mere 0.167 moments over teammate Cole Custer, highlight the depth of talent within the series.
However, the impending closure of SHR in 2025 introduces major changes to the driver landscape. With Tony Stewart’s departure, Gene Haas has opted to streamline operations, reducing SHR to a single Cup charter that will be utilized for Custer under the Haas Factory Team (HFT) banner. This shift leaves Herbst in search of a new home as he navigates the uncertain waters of team affiliations.
Interestingly, Herbst has emerged as a sought-after driver, attracting attention from several organizations keen to capitalize on his recent success. His ability to outperform established teammates could position him as a prime candidate for advanced roles within other competitive teams.
As the playoff season approaches, teams are actively evaluating their driver rosters, and rumors are swirling regarding potential shifts. The combination of Herbst’s rising profile and the restructuring of SHR opens the door for a reshuffling of talent within the Xfinity Series, setting the stage for a thrilling offseason.
Potential 2025 Team Associations
With considerable changes on the horizon for the Xfinity Series, the potential for new team associations in 2025 has become a focal point of interest. The dynamic nature of the series is highlighted by several key developments that could reshape the competitive landscape.
Remarkably, 23XI Racing, owned by Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin, is contemplating the inclusion of a third full-time car, which could greatly impact driver lineups and team tactics.
Moreover, Gene Haas is actively pursuing Riley Herbst as a candidate to pilot one of two cars he intends to field, further intensifying the competition for talent.
JR Motorsports has also made a tactical move by naming Connor Zilisch, an 18-year-old developmental driver from Trackhouse Racing, as the full-time successor to Dale Earnhardt Jr. in the #88 car for the 2025 season. This choice reflects JRM’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent.
In addition to these changes, several factors will influence team associations going forward:
- The ongoing performance evaluations of drivers like Hailie Deegan, who is exploring options after a challenging season.
- The potential for partnerships between established teams and up-and-coming organizations.
- The implications of sponsorship deals, particularly from major brands like Monster Energy.
- The evolving landscape of driver development programs that could facilitate tactical alliances.
Speculative Driver Movements and Broadcast Changes
Speculation surrounding driver movements in the Xfinity Series is intensifying as insiders provide insights into potential shifts ahead of the 2025 season.
Freddie Kraft, a former spotter turned analyst, has compared the current state of the Xfinity Series to a game of “musical chairs,” indicating that noteworthy changes are imminent. He noted that the entirety of the Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) full-time driver lineup is expected to transform, alongside considerable modifications at JR Motorsports (JRM).
“The whole JGR full-time driver lineup’s out, right? I mean, you know, there’s a whole new lineup coming in over there. Yeah JRM? Half JRM’s going to be different.” – Kraft
Among the names swirling in the rumor mill are Sheldon Creed, whose potential association with the Haas team could mark his third team in as many years. Furthermore, talents like Taylor Gray and William Sawalich are in rivalry for coveted full-time seats, with speculation placing Gray at JRM or JGR.
“Then guys are going you know. You hear (Sheldon) Creed’s name tied to the Haas team a lot now. You know, the (Taylor) Gray kid; probably JRM, JGR? (William) Sawalich kid probably moving over there. Maybe somebody going back over there that used to be over there…” – Kraft
Hailie Deegan is also poised for a possible return to Xfinity, potentially driving for HFT. Kraft further mentioned rumors linking Christian Eckes to Kaulig Racing and indicated that Nick Sanchez will be making the leap to Xfinity.
You know we’ve heard (Christian) Eckes rumors to Kaulig this week. I heard (Nick) Sanchez is going Xfinity racing. I don’t know where that is, which all that tells me is, Cory Heim is going to win about f***** 18 truck races next year.” – Kraft
Meanwhile, talented truck series driver Cory Heim is predicted to dominate in the Truck Series, as Kraft and co-host TJ Majors highlighted the competitiveness brewing for the upcoming season.
“No kidding. it might be the Cory Heim Truck Series [in 2025]” – Majors
“It’s gonna be Cory Heim versus (Ty) Majeski and Grant (Enfinger), essentially at this point, it seems like. But yeah, so there’s a lot of s*** going on in that Xfinity Series.” – Kraft
On the broadcasting front, the CW Network is set to take over Xfinity Series coverage from FOX and NBC starting in 2025, with a contract extending through 2031.
This shift aligns with broader changes in NASCAR’s broadcast rights strategy, further shaping the landscape of motorsport coverage in the coming years.
Current Xfinity Standings and Playoff Picture
As the 2024 Xfinity Series championship race intensifies, the current standings reveal a competitive landscape that is rapidly evolving. With only five races left before the playoffs, Cole Custer leads the charge, battling closely with Justin Allgaier and Austin Hill for the regular-season championship.
Custer, currently in the lead, sits only 56 points ahead of Allgaier, the 2019 regular season title-holder, while Hill trails by an extra 36 points.
Key contenders and their standings include:
- Cole Custer (1st) – Seeking SHR’s last regular-season championship.
- Justin Allgaier (2nd) – Aiming to reclaim his former glory.
- Austin Hill (3rd) – The defending regular-season champion, working for consistency.
- Shane van Gisbergen (4th) – A rookie with a strong performance in Kaulig Racing.
As the playoff picture sharpens, eight drivers have secured their spots, including notable names like Chandler Smith, Sam Mayer, and Riley Herbst.
However, the battle for the final four positions remains tight, with AJ Allmendinger, Sheldon Creed, Parker Kligerman, and Ryan Sieg all vying for a chance to advance. Sieg is currently precariously positioned just three points above the cutline, while Sammy Smith lurks just below.
The upcoming races will be significant, as the drivers will need to capitalize on every opportunity to improve their playoff standings. With the Cabo Wabo 250 on the horizon, the stakes could not be higher as drivers prepare to make their mark in the postseason.
News in Brief: Major NASCAR Xfinity Series Changes
The upcoming 2025 NASCAR season is poised for notable transformations within the Xfinity Series, driven by the closure of Stewart-Haas Racing and potential shifts at Joe Gibbs Racing. Emerging talents like Riley Herbst are gaining traction amidst this backdrop of speculation. Moreover, the CW Network’s acquisition of broadcasting rights signals a crucial change in media dynamics. As these developments unfold, the implications for team strategies and driver lineups will certainly shape the future of the Xfinity Series.
