As anticipation builds for the 2025 NASCAR season, Justin Haley has confirmed his participation in a different kind of racing event—the RC Chili Bowl. While top NASCAR teams like Joe Gibbs Racing have recently loosened their stance on dirt racing, Spire Motorsports seems to be holding firm on its restrictions. However, that hasn’t stopped Haley from taking on the challenge of defending his title at the RC Chili Bowl in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
The RC Chili Bowl is a unique event that features radio-controlled (RC) cars racing on a dirt oval track. It runs alongside the Chili Bowl Nationals, attracting racers from various motorsports. Haley, who claimed victory in the street stock division last year, is now preparing to reclaim his crown. Fans eagerly awaiting his performance at the Daytona International Speedway on February 16th will first see him in action in Tulsa.
Haley recently shared an update on his RC car preparation via Facebook, posting a picture with the caption: “2025 RC Chili Bowl Preparation! Been working on them for awhile but finally able to get them on track this week! The Team GFRP cars are fast, Whitz Bearings are smooth, and the XXX Power is lighting quick! Few more tests, then off to Tulsa!”
Spire Motorsports announced Haley’s participation, detailing his schedule for the event. According to the team, his quest for a second title will begin on January 13th and conclude with the feature races on January 18th. He will compete in multiple divisions, including RC late models, midgets, and outlaw sprints, before returning to Charlotte to focus on his NASCAR season.
Haley’s move to Spire Motorsports comes after a steady 2024 season with Rick Ware Racing, where he managed a top-five finish at Talladega. His switch, part of a driver swap with Corey LaJoie, has sparked optimism among fans. Now, under the guidance of crew chief Rodney Childers—a 40-time NASCAR Cup Series race winner who led Kevin Harvick to his 2014 championship—Haley aims to make an impact.
Although his return to Spire Motorsports marks a new chapter in his career, Haley has already left his mark with the team, securing their first win at Daytona in 2019 as a part-time driver. Now, as he prepares for the upcoming Cup Series season, Haley’s RC Chili Bowl defense could set the tone for what’s to come in 2025.
Justin Haley Set to Defend His Title at the RC Chili Bowl Before the 2025 NASCAR Season Begins
