Ross Chastain’s remarkable victory at the 2025 Coca-Cola 600 has not only etched his name into NASCAR history but also prompted the creation of a new statistical chart by @MotorReference, reflecting the significance of his achievement.
Starting from the 40th position in a backup car—after a crash in practice forced his team to forgo qualifying—Chastain methodically worked his way through the field at Charlotte Motor Speedway. In the race’s final laps, he overtook William Byron, who had dominated by leading 283 of the 400 laps and winning the first three stages, to secure his first victory of the season and the sixth of his career.
This victory is particularly noteworthy as Chastain became the first driver to win the Coca-Cola 600 after starting last, a feat not accomplished since Bobby Allison’s win from the rear at Richmond in 1969. The win also marks Trackhouse Racing’s first crown jewel victory, underscoring the team’s rapid ascent in the NASCAR Cup Series.
The new chart by @MotorReference aims to capture the rarity and significance of such a comeback, highlighting instances where drivers have triumphed after starting from the back of the pack. While the chart’s publication date is yet to be announced, its forthcoming release is highly anticipated by racing enthusiasts and statisticians alike.
Chastain’s victory not only secured his spot in the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series playoffs but also served as a testament to perseverance and strategic acumen, qualities that will be immortalized in the upcoming @MotorReference chart.
