As we approach the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season, the buzz around potential championship contenders is already starting to build. Fans and media alike are quick to name drivers like Kyle Larson, Denny Hamlin, Ryan Blaney, and Christopher Bell as the top favorites for the title. And while these drivers certainly have the talent and experience to make a strong run for the championship, there are a few other names that may be flying under the radar as potential dark horses. Here are four drivers who could surprise everyone and emerge as serious contenders for the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series championship.
1. Tyler Reddick
At just 25 years old, Tyler Reddick has already made a name for himself in the NASCAR world. He has two Xfinity Series championships under his belt and has been making a strong impression in the Cup Series since his debut in 2019. While he has yet to secure a win at the Cup level, Reddick has consistently shown speed and skill on the track. With a few more years of experience under his belt, he could be a serious threat for the 2025 championship.
One of Reddick’s biggest strengths is his ability to adapt to different tracks and conditions. He has proven to be a versatile driver, with wins on both short tracks and superspeedways. This adaptability will be crucial in the ever-changing landscape of NASCAR, where new tracks and rules are constantly being introduced. If Reddick can continue to hone his skills and stay consistent, he could definitely be a dark horse to watch out for in 2025.
2. Bubba Wallace
Bubba Wallace has been making headlines for more than just his driving skills in recent years. As the only full-time African American driver in the Cup Series, he has been a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in the sport. But don’t let his off-track activism distract you from his on-track potential. Wallace has shown flashes of brilliance in his short time in the Cup Series, with several top-10 finishes and a runner-up finish at the 2021 Daytona 500.
Wallace’s move to the newly formed 23XI Racing team, co-owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan, could be just the boost he needs to become a serious championship contender. With the resources and support of a top-tier team behind him, Wallace could surprise everyone and make a run for the title in 2025.
3. Cole Custer
Another young driver who has been making waves in the Cup Series is Cole Custer. In just his second full-time season, Custer secured his first Cup Series win at the 2020 Quaker State 400. While he has yet to replicate that success, Custer has shown potential and consistency on the track. He has also proven to be a quick learner, adapting to the Cup Series after a successful stint in the Xfinity Series.
Custer’s strong performances in the playoffs last season, including a top-10 finish at the championship race, show that he has what it takes to compete at the highest level. With a few more years of experience and the right team behind him, Custer could definitely be a dark horse to watch out for in 2025.
4. Chase Briscoe
Last but certainly not least, we have Chase Briscoe. Like Reddick and Custer, Briscoe has made a name for himself in the Xfinity Series, winning nine races and finishing in the top five in over half of his starts. He made the jump to the Cup Series in 2021, driving for Stewart-Haas Racing, and has already shown flashes of potential with a top-10 finish at the Daytona 500.
Briscoe’s background in dirt racing has given him a unique skill set that could prove to be valuable in the Cup Series. He has also shown a strong ability to adapt to different tracks and conditions, much like Reddick. With the right team and support, Briscoe could definitely be a dark horse to watch out for in 2025.
In conclusion, while names like Larson, Hamlin, Blaney, and Bell may dominate the conversation as potential championship favorites, there are several other drivers who could surprise everyone and emerge as dark horses in the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season. Tyler Reddick, Bubba Wallace, Cole Custer, and Chase Briscoe all have the talent, skill, and determination to
