Dale Earnhardt Jr., a beloved figure in NASCAR, is preparing to return to racing in 2025. Fans will once again see him behind the wheel of his iconic No. 8 late model car, even though he has stepped back from most NASCAR events in recent years. Earnhardt Jr. is now focusing on smaller races that he truly enjoys.
He shared on his Instagram Story that he plans to race at Florence Motor Speedway on August 29, just before the Southern 500 at Darlington Raceway that weekend.
“I’ll see y’all in August,” he told his excited followers.
Earnhardt Jr.’s participation in the Cook Out 225 ZMax CARS Tour race is a big draw for the series, as his role as a co-owner boosts both attendance and excitement. The race at Florence holds special significance for him, as it’s one of his favorite venues in South Carolina. He has raced there before in the South Carolina 400, although mechanical issues prevented him from finishing in the top five.
As a key figure in NASCAR history, particularly with the No. 8 car that became iconic between 1999 and 2007, Earnhardt Jr. is remembered fondly by fans. The No. 8 font, associated with Dale Earnhardt Incorporated, is making a comeback in 2025 in the NASCAR Xfinity Series with Sammy Smith driving it. The No. 8 and the Budweiser paint scheme, which returned in the South Carolina 400 this past November for the first time in 17 years, have generated renewed excitement among NASCAR fans.
In 2025, Earnhardt Jr.’s racing schedule will be light, with plans to compete in a few select races. Along with the confirmed Florence race in August, he is set to participate in another race in April, one more in August, and another in October. Sponsors like Sun Drop and Bass Pro Shops will be present at these events, with Budweiser potentially making appearances as well. Fans might also see him in other Florence races, such as the Icebreaker or South Carolina 400, when his broadcast schedule allows.
Beyond racing, Earnhardt Jr. continues to make an impact on the sport as a broadcaster for Amazon Prime Video and TNT, covering the NASCAR Cup Series. His broadcasting duties will primarily take place in the summer, between the Coca-Cola 600 over Memorial Day Weekend and the Brickyard 400 in late July.
Earnhardt Jr.’s return to the track is deeply significant, as few figures have been as beloved by fans as he has. With 26 wins in the NASCAR Cup Series and two Daytona 500 victories, his legacy is firmly established. He also holds the distinction of being NASCAR’s Most Popular Driver for 15 consecutive years (2003–2017), a streak that continues to fuel his enduring popularity.
Earnhardt Jr. has expressed a preference for certain tracks, particularly Florence Motor Speedway, and has shown interest in racing at other venues like Cordele and Anderson Motor Speedway. These smaller tracks allow him to enjoy racing and connect with passionate fans.
While further race details are yet to be confirmed, Earnhardt Jr. is leaving room in his calendar for additional local races outside of his broadcasting commitments.
