The 2025 NASCAR Cup season was one for the books, filled with thrilling races, unexpected twists, and unforgettable moments. As the dust settles on the season, it’s time to take a look back at the biggest surprises and disappointments that defined this year’s championship.
On the positive side, Denny Hamlin emerged as the driver with the most wins, with an impressive six victories under his belt. It seemed like this could finally be the year that Hamlin would clinch his first-ever Cup championship. However, fate had other plans for the talented driver.
In the season finale at Phoenix, Hamlin was leading the race and on his way to victory when disaster struck on the last lap. A blown tire caused him to spin out, ultimately costing him the championship. It was a heartbreaking moment for Hamlin and his fans, but it also highlighted the unpredictable nature of NASCAR racing.
Despite the disappointment, Hamlin’s performance throughout the season cannot be overlooked. He consistently showed his skill and determination, and it’s only a matter of time before he finally lifts the Cup trophy.
Another standout driver of the 2025 season was Chase Elliott. The young driver had a breakout year, winning four races and securing his second consecutive Cup championship. Elliott’s dominance on the track was a pleasant surprise for many, and it’s clear that he has a bright future ahead of him in the sport.
But it wasn’t just the established names that made waves in the 2025 season. Several young drivers also made their mark, proving that the future of NASCAR is in good hands. William Byron, Tyler Reddick, and Cole Custer all secured their first-ever Cup wins, showcasing their talent and potential.
On the other hand, there were some disappointments in the 2025 season, with some drivers failing to live up to expectations. One of the biggest letdowns was Kevin Harvick, who had a dominant season in 2024 but struggled to find his footing this year. Despite winning two races, Harvick failed to make it to the Championship 4, a surprising turn of events for the veteran driver.
Another driver who had a disappointing season was Kyle Busch. The two-time Cup champion had a winless year, failing to secure a victory for the first time in his career. It was a tough pill to swallow for Busch and his team, but they will undoubtedly come back stronger next season.
The 2025 season also saw the retirement of some beloved drivers, including Jimmie Johnson and Matt Kenseth. Both drivers had illustrious careers in NASCAR, and their absence will be felt on the track. However, their legacy will continue to inspire future generations of drivers.
In terms of teams, Hendrick Motorsports had a standout year, with all four of their drivers making it to the Championship 4. It was a remarkable achievement for the team, and it’s clear that their hard work and dedication paid off.
On the other hand, Stewart-Haas Racing had a disappointing season, with none of their drivers making it to the playoffs. It was a surprising turn of events for the team, who had a strong lineup of drivers, including Harvick and Aric Almirola.
Overall, the 2025 NASCAR Cup season was a rollercoaster ride of emotions, with unexpected twists and turns at every corner. While there were disappointments, there were also plenty of surprises and standout performances that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
As we look ahead to the 2026 season, one thing is for sure – NASCAR will continue to provide thrilling races and unforgettable moments, making it one of the most exciting and unpredictable sports in the world.