In the fall of 2024, it was revealed that NASCAR was exploring the possibility of a Days of Thunder sequel, though updates on the project have been sparse since then. However, a small but intriguing detail has surfaced recently regarding this potential film.
The original Days of Thunder, released in 1990, starred Tom Cruise, Nicole Kidman, and Michael Rooker, among others, and became a significant cultural moment for NASCAR. At a time when the sport was experiencing rapid growth, the movie helped push NASCAR into the mainstream, contributing to its surge in popularity during the late ’90s and early 2000s.
A sequel to Days of Thunder could have similar benefits for NASCAR today. The sport already has a Netflix series under its belt, and a new film featuring Tom Cruise reprising his role as Cole Trickle—similar to his return as Maverick in Top Gun: Maverick—could be a huge win.
Adam Stern of Sports Business Journal recently spoke to NASCAR COO Steve O’Donnell about the possibility of a sequel. While O’Donnell confirmed NASCAR’s ongoing interest, he also pointed out that the discussions have not progressed beyond this point. “It would be great to see it happen, but that’s as far as any discussions have gone,” he said.
For NASCAR, increasing visibility is crucial, and a Days of Thunder sequel could serve as a powerful promotional tool. The sport has made strides with streaming on platforms like Netflix and Prime Video, and with events like the Xfinity Series airing on The CW, NASCAR is taking steps in the right direction. A Days of Thunder sequel could help further solidify NASCAR’s place in the public’s consciousness, but it remains uncertain if the project will materialize.
While expanding NASCAR’s media presence is important, the core of the sport’s success lies in the racing itself. NASCAR should stay focused on delivering exciting races, which remain the main draw for fans. As the sport faces challenges in attracting viewers, it’s crucial not to become overly reliant on nostalgia. While reflecting on past success can be valuable, NASCAR’s future will depend on providing a fresh, exciting product that resonates with a new generation of fans.
Though NASCAR’s TV ratings have not reached the heights they once did in the ’90s and 2000s, the sport continues to outperform many others, and it still holds potential for growth. As the global popularity of motorsports rises, NASCAR’s leaders, including O’Donnell, are tasked with ensuring that their racing style attracts viewers worldwide. Despite the ups and downs, the quality of racing—especially on intermediate tracks—has never been better. However, there’s still room for improvement, particularly on superspeedways, road courses, and short tracks. With a willingness to make changes, such as altering tire specifications, NASCAR may one day bring back some additional horsepower to further enhance the racing experience.
