Parker Kligerman, a seasoned NASCAR driver, has made the significant decision not to pursue a full-time racing position in 2025, marking a pivotal moment in his career. Kligerman, who first entered the NASCAR scene in 2009, has established himself as a formidable competitor, currently racing full-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series with Big Machine Racing.
At 34 years old, Kligerman has an impressive track record, including three victories in the NASCAR Truck Series, with his most recent win occurring in 2022. His experience extends beyond the Truck Series, as he has also participated in 30 races in the NASCAR Cup Series, showcasing his versatility and skill across different levels of the sport.
As he approaches the end of the 2024 season, Kligerman has decided that this will be his last year as a full-time competitor in NASCAR. This decision comes after a period of deep reflection and consideration about his future in the sport.
In a candid discussion on The Money Lap podcast, Kligerman opened up about the thought process behind his choice. “This wasn’t a minor choice and certainly didn’t come about quickly,” he explained. “It involved months of careful consideration, exploring different paths, and a lot of back-and-forth.”
He recounted a particularly transformative moment that occurred in June, following a race in Portland. After the race, as he traveled to Sonoma for the next event, Kligerman took some time for himself and went for a run. During this run, he found himself on a mountain overlooking the breathtaking San Francisco Bay. It was in that serene moment of reflection that he came to a realization about his future. “I think I’m okay. I want to finish this year and then figure out what’s next,” he said, indicating a sense of peace with his decision.
Kligerman’s choice not to continue full-time racing reflects a broader contemplation of his career and life beyond the track. As he prepares to close this chapter, he is focused on making the most of his final season in NASCAR, while also looking forward to new opportunities that may lie ahead.
Kligerman has always harbored a deep-seated ambition to secure a full-time position in the prestigious NASCAR Cup Series, a dream that has driven him throughout his racing career. However, as he navigated the competitive landscape of motorsports, he soon came to the sobering realization that opportunities for a coveted Cup seat were few and far between. The path to the top tier of NASCAR is notoriously challenging, with only a limited number of spots available and a multitude of talented drivers vying for them.
In moments of introspection, Kligerman often finds himself reflecting on his journey, admitting, “I often catch myself thinking, I feel like I’ve been here before.” This sentiment underscores a sense of frustration and longing, as he acknowledges that he has yet to achieve the level of success he has always aimed for. Despite his talent and determination, the elusive nature of his goals has left him feeling as though he is caught in a cycle of unfulfilled aspirations.
“This thought has lingered in my mind,” he continued, revealing the weight of his ambitions. “My primary focus has been on winning races and competing for the championship with Big Machine Racing.” His commitment to excellence is evident in his dedication to his current team, where he pours his energy into every race, striving not only for personal success but also for the collective achievement of his crew.
As of now, Kligerman finds himself ranked 11th in the NASCAR Xfinity Series standings, a position that reflects both his skill and the competitive nature of the series. With four top-five finishes to his name this season, he has demonstrated his capability to contend with the best in the field. Each race serves as a stepping stone, fueling his desire to break through the barriers that have kept him from realizing his ultimate goal of racing full-time in the Cup Series. The journey is far from over, and Kligerman remains resolute in his pursuit of success, determined to make his mark in the world of NASCAR.
Parker Kligerman Retires from Full-Time NASCAR: A Look Back at His Racing Journey
