The 2025 Daytona Duels are shaping up to be the most competitive and star-studded qualifying rounds in recent memory. With a projected 45 entries vying for 40 or 41 spots on the starting grid of the Great American Race, big-name drivers like Martin Truex Jr., Jimmie Johnson, and others are set to face a monumental challenge.
The star power driving the competition
The open entry list for this year’s Daytona 500 is nothing short of sensational. Martin Truex Jr., still chasing the elusive Daytona 500 victory, and Jimmie Johnson, the seven-time Cup Series champion rumored to be nearing retirement, are among the headline acts. Helio Castroneves, thanks to his Open Entry Program (OEP) spot, has already secured his place in the main event.
Meanwhile, rumors swirl about Corey LaJoie, who could make a Daytona 500 attempt in Rick Ware Racing’s No. 15 car, and MBM Motorsports (or Garage 66) is reportedly seeking a driver to enter the fray. With heavyweights and underdogs alike, the entry list is brimming with talent and drama.
Why this year’s duels are different
In 2024, six drivers competed for four open spots in a 42-car field. But 2025 sees a surge in entries, with up to 45 cars expected. This tighter competition means even the most accomplished drivers will face increased pressure to qualify.
For Truex and Johnson, the stakes couldn’t be higher:
- Truex Jr.: Despite a stellar NASCAR career, the Daytona 500 trophy remains missing from his collection. This could be one of his final chances to claim the crown jewel of NASCAR.
- Jimmie Johnson: With whispers of retirement looming, Johnson is eyeing his 700th career start at the Coca-Cola 600 later this season. But to cap off his legacy with another Daytona 500, he’ll need to navigate the crowded duels successfully.
Corey LaJoie’s redemption arc?
LaJoie’s career has been a rollercoaster, marked by a mid-season swap in 2024 that saw him move from Spire Motorsports to Ford with Rick Ware Racing (RWR). His hopes for a full-time ride in 2025 were dashed when RWR announced Cody Ware for their No. 51 entry.
Now, speculation about LaJoie piloting RWR’s No. 15 car in a part-time schedule, starting with the Daytona 500, has injected fresh intrigue into the duels. Social media rumors have amplified the buzz, with pages like nascarrumornostalgia fueling anticipation:
“Fully expect Jimmie Johnson to attempt the 500, and also sounds like LaJoie in the 15 for the 500… that would mean 45 cars going for 40 spots.”
The challenges ahead
The surge in entries raises the stakes for everyone. For high-profile names like Truex and Johnson, competing against a field packed with underdog teams and up-and-coming drivers means there’s no guarantee of a starting spot.
- Truex’s uphill battle: With the Daytona 500 missing from his otherwise glittering career, missing the cut this year would be a bitter blow.
- Johnson’s last hurrah? If this truly is Johnson’s final Daytona 500, the pressure to secure his spot is immense, as fans and teammates hope to see the NASCAR legend cap off his legacy in style.
A thrilling preview of NASCAR’s crown jewel
The 2025 Daytona Duels promise high drama, intense competition, and the ultimate test of skill and luck. Whether it’s a seasoned champion chasing glory, a legend seeking one last hurrah, or an underdog looking to make their mark, every driver will be fighting for their chance to compete in the Great American Race.