The NASCAR Cup Series heads to Darlington Raceway for the highly anticipated Goodyear 400, a race steeped in tradition and excitement. Scheduled for Sunday, April 6, 2025, at 3:00 PM ET, this event marks the eighth race of the 2025 season and serves as NASCAR’s annual Throwback Weekend, celebrating the sport’s rich history.
The Venue: Darlington Raceway
Darlington Raceway, affectionately known as “The Lady in Black” and “The Track Too Tough to Tame,” is one of NASCAR’s most iconic tracks. This 1.366-mile egg-shaped oval, located in Darlington, South Carolina, features unique asymmetrical turns that challenge even the most skilled drivers. With 25 degrees of banking in Turns 1 and 2 and 22 degrees in Turns 3 and 4, the track demands precision and bravery. Darlington’s storied history dates back to 1950, making it a cornerstone of NASCAR’s legacy.
Race Format
The Goodyear 400 is a 400-mile race spanning 293 laps, divided into three stages:
Stage 1: 90 laps
Stage 2: 95 laps
Final Stage: 108 laps
Drivers will need to balance aggression with tire management, as Darlington is notorious for its abrasive surface that wears down tires quickly. The race is expected to feature intense battles along the high line, where drivers flirt with the wall to maximize speed.
Key Storylines
Kyle Larson’s Dominance at Darlington
Kyle Larson enters the Goodyear 400 as one of the favorites, boasting an impressive record at Darlington. With nine top-10 finishes and seven top-fives in 14 starts, Larson has led over 1,000 laps at this track. His ability to navigate Darlington’s unique challenges makes him a strong contender for victory.
Denny Hamlin’s Quest for Another Win
Fresh off a dominant performance at Martinsville, Denny Hamlin looks to continue his momentum at a track where he has excelled in the past. With four career wins at Darlington, Hamlin’s experience and skill could propel him to another victory.
Brad Keselowski’s Redemption Arc
Brad Keselowski, the defending Goodyear 400 champion, aims to turn his season around after a slow start. Sitting 30th in points, Keselowski will rely on his strong track record at Darlington to regain his footing.
Bubba Wallace’s Hot Streak
Bubba Wallace has been one of the standout drivers of the 2025 season, with three top-10 finishes and consecutive third-place results. Darlington has been kind to Wallace in recent years, and he will look to maintain his strong form.
Throwback Weekend Festivities
The Goodyear 400 is part of NASCAR’s Throwback Weekend, where teams honor the sport’s history with retro paint schemes. Fans can expect to see cars paying tribute to legendary drivers and iconic designs, adding a nostalgic flair to the event.
Drivers to Watch
William Byron: Starting on the pole, Byron has shown speed all season and will look to capitalize on his strong qualifying performance.
Ross Chastain: Known for his aggressive driving style, Chastain could be a dark horse contender if he can avoid trouble.
Christopher Bell: Consistent and competitive, Bell has the potential to make a strong push for the win.
