Daytona Beach, Fla. — Just days before the green flag waves at the 2025 Daytona 500, NASCAR fans received news of a last-minute driver change that has altered the entry list for “The Great American Race.” The swap adds an extra layer of intrigue to the already highly anticipated season opener at Daytona International Speedway.
The Driver Change
The No. 62 Beard Motorsports Chevrolet will now be driven by NASCAR veteran Ryan Newman, replacing up-and-coming driver Austin Hill. The team cited strategic reasons for the change, emphasizing Newman’s vast experience and proven success at superspeedways, including a prior Daytona 500 victory in 2008.
“Ryan brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to our team,” said Beard Motorsports team owner Mark Beard Jr. in a statement. “We believe he gives us the best chance to perform well in the Daytona 500 and make a strong push to qualify through the Duel races.”
Hill, a talented driver who excelled in the Xfinity Series, expressed disappointment but showed understanding of the team’s decision. “I’m grateful for the opportunity Beard Motorsports gave me, and while I’m disappointed to step out of the car, I fully support their choice and wish Ryan and the team the best,” Hill said.
Updated 2025 Daytona 500 Entry List
The change means the official entry list now features 42 drivers vying for a spot in the 40-car field, with several open teams needing to qualify through the Duel races. Here is the updated list of notable entries:
Chartered Entries
1. Kyle Larson – Hendrick Motorsports, No. 5 Chevrolet
2. Joey Logano – Team Penske, No. 22 Ford
3. Denny Hamlin – Joe Gibbs Racing, No. 11 Toyota
4. Chase Elliott – Hendrick Motorsports, No. 9 Chevrolet
5. Bubba Wallace – 23XI Racing, No. 23 Toyota
6. Martin Truex Jr. – Joe Gibbs Racing, No. 19 Toyota
7. Kevin Harvick – Stewart-Haas Racing, No. 4 Ford (in his farewell season)
8. Ross Chastain – Trackhouse Racing, No. 1 Chevrolet
9. Tyler Reddick – 23XI Racing, No. 45 Toyota
10. William Byron – Hendrick Motorsports, No. 24 Chevrolet
Open Entries (Must Qualify Through Duels)
1. Ryan Newman – Beard Motorsports, No. 62 Chevrolet
2. Zane Smith – Front Row Motorsports, No. 36 Ford
3. Travis Pastrana – 23XI Racing, No. 67 Toyota
4. Chandler Smith – Kaulig Racing, No. 13 Chevrolet
5. Jimmie Johnson – Legacy Motor Club, No. 84 Chevrolet
The Duel Races Loom Large
With only four open spots available in the Daytona 500, the Duel races will be the make-or-break moment for teams like Beard Motorsports and drivers like Newman. The two 150-mile qualifying races, held on Thursday before the main event, will determine which open teams secure a starting spot in the race.
Newman, known as “The Rocket Man” for his qualifying prowess, is expected to be a strong contender in the Duels. However, he will face tough competition from experienced drivers like Jimmie Johnson and young talents like Chandler Smith.
The Stage is Set
As the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season kicks off, the Daytona 500 entry list now reflects a mix of seasoned veterans, rising stars, and intriguing storylines. With Ryan Newman’s last-minute addition and the looming Duel races, fans can expect plenty of drama and excitement before the field is finalized for the sport’s biggest race.
The Daytona 500 is scheduled to take place on February 16, 2025, with coverage beginning at 2:30 p.m. ET on FOX.
