The NASCAR Cup Series has had a history of titan teams fielding four cars at once. Teams like Hendrick Motorsports, Joe Gibbs Racing, and Stewart-Haas Racing have actually achieved success with this feat, as it maximizes their chances of dominating the field. However, in recent years, the four-car approach has become less common, mostly because of the rising cost of operations.

But now, rumors suggest several teams might return to this strategy.

Rumors of Part-Time Fourth Cars in NASCAR

According to NASCAR Rumors and Nostalgia, a popular account known for sharing insights and speculation, there might be such a strategy brewing in the garages. Teams such as Front Row Motorsports, RFK Racing, and 23XI Racing are considering the possibility of fielding a part-time fourth car in 2025. But if they’re willing to add part-time cars, why won’t teams buy a fourth charter? Well, according to NASCAR’s charter agreement, no team can own more than three charters, with HMS and JGR being grandfathered in. While the details remain unconfirmed, this news seems to catch fire amongst fans.

The account’s post specifically hints at 23XI Racing being the most likely candidate to experiment with a fourth car in the open format. The team may be new, but they are known for their aggressive expansion efforts, 23XI Racing has quickly risen to popularity under the leadership of Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan. Just this year, Michael Jordan and Co. brought in the third charter for their team, with Riley Herbst being promoted from the Xfinity Series into taking a full-time seat with the team. Adding a fourth entry, even part-time, could provide valuable opportunities for emerging drivers.

Adding fuel to the fire is a Bob Pockrass report from a few months ago. According to said report, 23XI was considering fielding a fourth entry, specifically to allow Truck Series driver Corey Heim to race in the Cup Series. Now, Heim was one of the names surrounding the team’s third charter, before Herbst was signed. A part-time seat could be the opportunity for 23XI to understand which one of their rookies fits in their plans the best.

Similarly, other teams exploring this possibility suggest a growing interest in this tried and tested method. With NASCAR’s rules allowing teams to field up to four cars, this move could open doors for more talent from Xfinity and IndyCar to come and shine as rookie underdogs.

Meanwhile, RFK Racing, co-owned by Brad Keselowski, is also entertaining the possibility of adding a fourth car. RFK has been on an upward trajectory, with all its current teams showing consistent performance. Adding another car could give RFK additional opportunities to field young talent or bring veteran drivers back for one-offs. They have the potential to attract sponsors. Just this year, Keselowski managed to wrangle Kroger away from rival teams.

Front Row Motorsports, known for its underdog successes over the years, has also emerged as a rumored contender for a part-time fourth entry. With Michael McDowell securing wins and playoff berths, Front Row has established itself as a team not to be taken lightly. A fourth car would put their name more out in the open to attract sponsorship opportunities.

Implications for NASCAR’s starting line up

Trending

1

FedEx’s Sudden Exit From Joe Gibbs Racing Prompts The Coach to Bag their $13 Billion Worth Competitor

2

After Cutting 15-YO Ties With Kyle Busch, M&M’s Rumored to Have Found Next NASCAR Driver

3

Kelley Earnhardt Sends Bold 4-Word Message Amid JRM’s Cup Series Entry

4

Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s Wife Fights Off Rumors After Fans Go Down a Rabbit Hole

5

NASCAR Shoots Itself in the Foot as Daytona 500 Keeps Losing Respect From Drivers

If these rumors prove true, the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season could be one of the most competitive in recent memory. Part-time fourth entries provide teams with better odds to win and also test out rookies before signing them full-time. They can experiment with drivers, test new strategies, or attract sponsorships without committing to a full-season investment. This approach also allows NASCAR to welcome diverse talent, including international drivers or prodigy stars from other racing disciplines.

Moreover, these moves could have a ripple effect on the sport’s business dynamics. Sponsors might also view these part-time entries as low-risk opportunities to invest in NASCAR, leading to fresh partnerships. While the logistics and execution remain unknown, the possibility of additional entries is an exciting development for fans and teams alike. As NASCAR continues to grow and evolve, innovations like these will play a crucial role in shaping the sport’s future.

While these rumors remain unverified, the potential return of a quadruple frontier does invoke more excitement. In the end, whether it’s RFK, 23XI, Front Row, or Trackhouse Racing, one thing is clear, the 2025 season promises to be a fascinating chapter in this post lawsuit era. Fans will be eagerly awaiting confirmation as the Daytona 500 approaches.