Rockingham Speedway Return Fuels NASCAR Comeback for Kasey Kahne

After more than six years away from NASCAR’s national circuits, Kasey Kahne is set to make a highly anticipated return at Rockingham Speedway. The veteran driver will pilot the No. 33 HendrickCars.com Chevrolet for Richard Childress Racing (RCR) in the NASCAR Xfinity Series race on Saturday, April 19, 2025 .

Kahne’s comeback is deeply personal, as Rockingham holds significant memories for him. It was here that he first tested a stock car, marking the beginning of his NASCAR journey. Reflecting on that moment, Kahne shared, “I had won a sprint car race in Volusia… drove through the night, up here, slept in a parking lot, and then got into a Busch Series car that morning and did a test here” . His connection to the track was further solidified with a victory in the NASCAR Truck Series event in 2012.

Since stepping away from NASCAR in 2018 due to health concerns, including severe dehydration during races, Kahne has remained active in the racing world, particularly in sprint car racing. His return to Rockingham is not just a professional decision but an emotional one, revisiting the venue that played a pivotal role in his career.

The upcoming race at Rockingham marks NASCAR’s return to the track after more than a decade. The 1.017-mile oval has undergone significant changes, including a repave in 2022, offering a smoother surface while retaining its unique characteristics. Kahne noted the differences during recent testing sessions, stating, “This track is much different, smooth. It’s got a lot of the same characteristics, I think” .

Richard Childress, chairman and CEO of RCR, expressed confidence in Kahne’s abilities, saying, “Kasey is a great driver and a fierce competitor… With Kasey behind the wheel, we expect the No. 33 to have a shot at winning the race” . Rick Hendrick, chairman and CEO of Hendrick Automotive Group, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the excitement of seeing Kahne return to NASCAR at such a special track.

The NASCAR Xfinity Series race at Rockingham Speedway is scheduled for Saturday, April 19, 2025, at 4:00 PM ET. Fans can watch the race live on The CW and listen to coverage on the Motor Racing Network and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90 .

Kahne’s return to Rockingham is more than just a race; it’s a full-circle moment, reconnecting with a track that has been instrumental in his racing journey.