Charlotte, North Carolina, October 25, 2025
News Summary
Dale Earnhardt Jr. has confirmed he will not return to the Xfinity Series in 2025, following his last race in September 2024. Although he is stepping away from Xfinity, he remains active in Late Models with four races this season. Earnhardt Jr. hinted at a possible Xfinity return in 2026, expressing interest in tracks like North Wilkesboro and Bristol. As he approaches a potential retirement age of 50 to 55, racing fans remain keenly interested in his career trajectory.
Charlotte, North Carolina – Dale Earnhardt Jr., the former NASCAR superstar, confirmed that he has no plans to return to the Xfinity Series in 2025, marking a significant shift in his racing career. After his last appearance in an Xfinity car on September 20, 2024, at Bristol Motor Speedway, he indicated that he believes he has closed the chapter on his Xfinity career.
Despite stepping away from Xfinity, Earnhardt Jr. remains open to racing Late Models. He has participated in four Late Model starts this season, recording finishes of 21st at Cordele Motor Speedway, 10th at Anderson, 18th at Florence, and 12th at Tri-County. He described his current racing involvement as a “faucet” he is gradually turning off, illustrating his measured approach to potential retirement.
In discussions about the future, Earnhardt Jr. hinted that he could consider a return to Xfinity in 2026, stating that it would be unwise to rule it out entirely. He expressed an interest in several tracks that could entice him to return, including North Wilkesboro, where he prefers the worn pavement, and Bristol Motor Speedway, which remains a favorite. Additionally, he has shown interest in racing at Nashville if NASCAR includes the venue on its schedule.
At age 51, Earnhardt Jr. has previously mentioned a potential retirement age between 50 and 55 but has maintained that decisions will be made year-to-year. He compared his relationship with racing to a helicopter he once owned, suggesting he may one day choose to step away without a formal announcement.
In a nod to the Truck Series, he entertained the idea of participating in a race, although he remains uncertain regarding the selection of a track. Martinsville continues to intrigue him as a potential Xfinity stop, despite its challenges that could complicate race strategy.
Earning a reputation as one of NASCAR’s most iconic figures, Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s future in racing remains a topic of interest among fans. While this season will see him absent from the Xfinity grid, Earnhardt Jr.’s ongoing participation in Late Models keeps the door open for potential return to his racing roots.
Key Points of Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s Future Racing Plans
- Confirms no Xfinity return in 2025.
- Open to racing Late Models, participating in four races this season.
- Hints at a possible Xfinity return in 2026, reliant on circumstances.
- Interested in several tracks, including North Wilkesboro and Bristol.
- Prepares for potential retirement between ages 50 and 55.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s last appearance in the Xfinity series?
Dale Earnhardt Jr. last competed in an Xfinity car on September 20, 2024, at Bristol Motor Speedway.
Will he return to the Xfinity series in 2025?
He has confirmed that he has no plans to return to the Xfinity grid in 2025.
Is he open to racing Late Models?
Earnhardt Jr. is still open to racing Late Models, having already participated in four Late Model starts this season.
What tracks has he mentioned for a potential return in the future?
He discussed several tracks that could inspire a return, including North Wilkesboro, Bristol Motor Speedway, and Nashville.
Key Features of Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s Racing Plans
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Xfinity Series Return | No plans for 2025, potential for 2026. |
| Late Model Participation | Four races completed this season. |
| Tracks of Interest | North Wilkesboro, Bristol Motor Speedway, Nashville. |
| Retirement Age | 50 to 55 years old. |
| Racing Outlook | Year-to-year decisions regarding future races. |
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Additional Resources
- The Sports Rush: Dale Earnhardt Jr. on Designing Race Cars
- Wikipedia: Dale Earnhardt Jr.
- The Sports Rush: Dale Earnhardt Jr. on Rick Hendrick’s Role
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Dale Earnhardt Jr.
- Pilot Online: Langley Speedway and Dale Jr.’s Visit
- Google Search: Dale Earnhardt Jr.
- The Sports Rush: Dale Earnhardt Jr. Debunks NASCAR Myths
- Google Scholar: Dale Earnhardt Jr.
- Sports Illustrated: Dale Earnhardt Jr. on Trademark Case
- Google News: Dale Earnhardt Jr.
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