As we turn the page to the 2025 NASCAR season, fans are buzzing with anticipation and a long list of wishes for the sport. From addressing lingering controversies to making on-track improvements, here are five things fans hope to see in the new year:
1. Settlement to the Front Row Motorsports/23XI Racing Lawsuit
The ongoing legal dispute between Front Row Motorsports (FRM) and 23XI Racing regarding the charter transaction has cast a shadow over NASCAR’s offseason. Fans and industry insiders alike are eager for a resolution that satisfies both parties and avoids further drama. A settlement would bring clarity to the charter system and ensure that the focus remains on the racing action rather than courtroom battles.
2. Better NASCAR Officiating
2024 saw its share of controversial calls that left fans scratching their heads. From inconsistent cautions to questionable penalties, the need for more transparent and consistent officiating is a top priority. Improved communication and clarity in decision-making would restore trust among teams, drivers, and fans. Could NASCAR adopt an NFL-style “command center” approach to reviewing incidents in real-time? Many believe it’s time.
3. Improvements to the Short Track and Road Course Package
While the 2022 introduction of the Next Gen car brought parity to intermediate tracks, short tracks and road courses have struggled to deliver the same level of excitement. Fans are calling for aerodynamic and mechanical updates to create better racing at iconic venues like Martinsville, Bristol, and Watkins Glen. With NASCAR’s commitment to innovation, 2025 could be the year these tracks reclaim their former glory.
4. MUCH Better TV Coverage from FOX
The 2024 season saw widespread criticism of FOX’s NASCAR broadcasts, with complaints about excessive commercials, poor race analysis, and lackluster graphics. Fans are demanding a major overhaul of the network’s presentation, including fewer interruptions during races, sharper insights from the broadcast booth, and an overall more engaging product. With the growing competition for viewers’ attention, delivering high-quality coverage is more important than ever.
5. Denny Hamlin Finally Wins a Championship
After a 20-year career filled with wins and heartbreak, Denny Hamlin remains one of the best drivers without a Cup Series title. The veteran driver has come tantalizingly close multiple times, only to fall short in the season finale. Fans are split—some rooting for him to get over the hump, others embracing the drama of his pursuit. Either way, Hamlin hoisting the trophy in 2025 would be a defining moment for the sport.
What’s Next for NASCAR in 2025?
The 2025 season promises to be pivotal for NASCAR, with opportunities to address fan concerns and improve the on-track product. Will NASCAR deliver on these five wishes? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: fans will be watching closely.
What are your hopes for the upcoming season? Share your thoughts below!
