Bristol, Tennessee, September 19, 2025
News Summary
During the critical 2025 Bass Pro Shops Night Race, Josh Berry’s hopes of advancing in the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs were dashed when his Ford caught fire, leading to his retirement. The incident occurred on Lap 74, and Berry’s exit marked his third consecutive last-place finish. This race resulted in the elimination of four drivers, setting the stage for the next playoff rounds. Christopher Bell claimed victory, solidifying Joe Gibbs Racing’s dominance in the series.
Bristol, Tennessee – Josh Berry’s chances to advance in the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs were extinguished during the 2025 Bass Pro Shops Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway on September 13, 2025. The event was a critical cut-off race, which resulted in the elimination of four drivers, including Berry, from the championship contention.
Berry entered the race needing either a victory or a strong finishing position to secure a place in the next round of the playoffs. He was 45 points behind the cutline, creating an urgent need for a standout performance. Berry found himself among the eight drivers still on the lead lap when disaster struck on Lap 74.
During the race, Berry’s No. 21 Ford caught fire due to a rubber buildup, creating a dangerous situation as heavy smoke rapidly filled the cockpit. Unable to continue, Berry was forced to retire from the race. His crew and safety personnel came to his aid, extinguishing the flames and helping him exit the vehicle.
The race was characterized by challenges related to tire wear, a situation compounded by a newly introduced right-side tire compound that was meant to improve performance but instead led to excessive deterioration. Throughout the 500-lap event, there were 14 caution periods, impacting various teams’ strategies and contributing to an unpredictable racing environment.
Berry’s early exit marked his third consecutive week of last-place finishes, following struggles in the previous races leading into Bristol. His disappointing performance mirrored that of fellow playoff contenders Alex Bowman, Austin Dillon, and Shane van Gisbergen, who were also eliminated from contention.
Christopher Bell claimed victory in the race, achieving a sweep for Joe Gibbs Racing in the playoff series. The atmosphere at Bristol was electric, with fans witnessing a blend of high-stakes drama, tactical maneuvers, and several incidents on the track.
The next round of the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs is set to commence at New Hampshire Motor Speedway on September 21, 2025, marking a pivotal moment for the remaining contenders. Berry’s crew chief indicated that the fire in Berry’s vehicle was likely a result of the problematic rubber buildup, emphasizing the risks teams faced during the evening’s event.
Race Overview
- Event: 2025 Bass Pro Shops Night Race
- Date: September 13, 2025
- Location: Bristol Motor Speedway, Bristol, Tennessee
- Number of Caution Periods: 14
- Lap of Incident: Lap 74
- Drivers Eliminated: Josh Berry, Alex Bowman, Austin Dillon, Shane van Gisbergen
- Race Winner: Christopher Bell
Background Context
The Bristol Motor Speedway race was a crucial cut-off event in the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs, with its demanding short track requiring skillful driving and strategic tire management. The introduction of new tire compounds often leads to unexpected outcomes, as seen in this race. Berry, along with many others, experienced the challenges posed by tire wear, significantly affecting their racing strategies.
FAQ
What race was Josh Berry competing in on September 13, 2025?
Josh Berry participated in the 2025 Bass Pro Shops Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway.
What was significant about the Bristol race for Josh Berry?
The Bristol race was a significant cut-off race in the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs, eliminating four drivers from championship contention, including Berry.
How many points was Josh Berry behind the cutline before the race?
Josh Berry was 45 points below the cutline prior to the race.
What caused the fire in Josh Berry’s car?
The fire in Berry’s car was caused by rubber buildup.
What was Josh Berry’s position in the race when the fire incident occurred?
Berry was running in 7th position when the incident occurred.
Who won the Bristol race?
Christopher Bell won the race, completing a sweep for Joe Gibbs Racing in the playoff series.
When does the next round of the playoffs start?
The next round of the playoffs is scheduled to start at New Hampshire Motor Speedway on September 21, 2025.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | 2025 Bass Pro Shops Night Race |
| Date | September 13, 2025 |
| Location | Bristol Motor Speedway, Bristol, Tennessee |
| Significance | Cut-off race in NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs |
| Caution Periods | 14 |
| Drivers Eliminated | Josh Berry, Alex Bowman, Austin Dillon, Shane van Gisbergen |
| Race Winner | Christopher Bell |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Christopher Bell Wins Bass Pro Shops Night Race at Bristol
Christopher Bell Triumphs in Bristol Night Race
NASCAR Weekend Brings Thrills to Bristol Motor Speedway
Upcoming Bass Pro Shops Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway
Bristol, Tennessee Readies for NASCAR Weekend
Bass Pro Shops Night Race Set to Impact NASCAR Playoffs
Additional Resources
- NASCAR: Josh Berry Eliminated from Playoffs
- Wikipedia: Josh Berry
- The Tennessean: Josh Berry Fire in Bristol Race
- Google Search: Josh Berry NASCAR Bristol
- Motorsport: Berry’s Car Flames Out
- Google Scholar: Josh Berry NASCAR Bristol
- Road & Track: Berry Retires Bristol Race
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Josh Berry NASCAR
- Speedway Digest: Berry’s Strong Start at Bristol
- Google News: Josh Berry NASCAR Bristol
Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
