Dale Earnhardt Jr. Urges NASCAR to Make Big Change After Daytona 500
Following the 2025 Daytona 500, NASCAR Hall of Famer Dale Earnhardt Jr. has voiced strong opinions on a pressing issue within the sport. As one of the most influential figures in NASCAR, Earnhardt Jr. believes the sanctioning body must address the current state of superspeedway racing, particularly the late-race crashes that often determine the outcome.
The Daytona 500 once again ended in chaos, with a multi-car wreck shaping the final laps. Earnhardt Jr., who has both won and lost races in similar scenarios, has grown increasingly vocal about the need for adjustments. While appearing on his *Dale Jr. Download* podcast, he emphasized that NASCAR must find a way to reduce the “big one” that consistently disrupts the finish of superspeedway events.
“I love pack racing as much as anyone, but we’ve got to look at ways to make these races safer and more about the drivers, not just surviving the wrecks,” Earnhardt Jr. said. He pointed to the growing trend of aggressive blocking and the aerodynamic package that makes bump-drafting unpredictable.
One potential solution Earnhardt Jr. mentioned is adjusting the horsepower or downforce to give drivers more control rather than relying on pack momentum. Another idea is tweaking the overtime rules to discourage reckless desperation moves.
With NASCAR already exploring safety improvements, Earnhardt Jr.’s comments add pressure to make meaningful changes. Given his deep ties to both fans and the garage, his push for reform could influence the direction of the sport. As the season progresses, it remains to be seen whether NASCAR will take his advice and implement changes before the next superspeedway race.
