As the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series season approaches, several significant developments are set to shape the competition. Notably, NASCAR has introduced the “Xfinity Fastest Lap” program, and teams have been actively adjusting their strategies and lineups to optimize performance.
Introduction of the Xfinity Fastest Lap Program
Starting in 2025, NASCAR has unveiled the “Xfinity Fastest Lap” initiative across all national series. This program awards one race point to the driver and owner who achieve the fastest single lap in each race. The driver accumulating the most fastest laps throughout the season will receive a monetary award for donation to a charity of their choice. This addition introduces new strategic elements, as teams may now prioritize achieving the fastest lap to gain crucial points.
Key Team and Driver Movements
The offseason has witnessed several noteworthy team and driver changes:
• Dean Thompson Joins Sam Hunt Racing: Dean Thompson is set to pilot the No. 26 Toyota GR Supra full-time for Sam Hunt Racing in the 2025 Xfinity Series. Thompson previously competed full-time in the Craftsman Truck Series and made two Xfinity starts with SHR in 2024.
• Harrison Burton Signs with AM Racing: After concluding his tenure with Wood Brothers Racing in the Cup Series, Harrison Burton will join AM Racing for the 2025 Xfinity Series season. Burton aims to leverage his experience to elevate AM Racing’s performance in the series.
• Anthony Alfredo Partners with Young’s Motorsports: Anthony Alfredo will race full-time for Young’s Motorsports in 2025, driving the No. 42 Chevrolet. Alfredo’s addition is expected to bolster the team’s competitiveness in their second Xfinity Series season.
• Haas Factory Team Finalizes Driver Lineup: The Haas Factory Team has announced that Sheldon Creed and Sam Mayer will race full-time in the Xfinity Series for the 2025 season. Both drivers bring a wealth of experience and are anticipated to be strong contenders.
Broadcasting and Viewing Changes
In a significant shift, The CW Network has become the exclusive home for the NASCAR Xfinity Series starting in 2025, with a commitment extending through the 2031 season. Fans can look forward to 33 live races annually, along with practice and qualifying events each weekend, all broadcasted on The CW.
As teams finalize their preparations and adapt to these changes, the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series season promises to be an exciting and dynamic chapter in the sport’s history.
