The 2025 NASCAR All-Star Race is set for Sunday, May 18, at North Wilkesboro Speedway in North Carolina. This 41st edition of the exhibition event returns to the historic 0.625-mile short track, bringing together the sport’s top drivers for a 250-lap showdown. With a $1 million prize on the line, the race promises high-stakes competition in an exhibition setting.
2025 NASCAR All-Star Race Preview
North Wilkesboro Speedway, a track steeped in NASCAR history, challenges drivers with its unique layout and demands precision and patience. The All-Star Race format includes preliminary heats and the All-Star Open, where drivers not already qualified can earn a spot in the main event. The top two finishers in the Open, along with a fan vote winner, will complete the field.
Key contenders have demonstrated strong performances on short tracks this season. Kyle Larson, the 2023 All-Star Race winner, has three victories and multiple top-five finishes this year, showcasing his prowess on similar circuits. Denny Hamlin, with two wins this season, boasts volumes of victories on tracks of one mile or less, highlighting his short-track expertise.
William Byron has emerged as a formidable competitor, securing a win in the Daytona 500. His consistent top-10 finishes underscore his competitiveness. Byron has seven top-10 finishes this year and will certainly be a factor in this race as well.
Other notable drivers include Ryan Blaney, Joey Logano, and Christopher Bell. Logano is the defending champion in the All-Star Race on this track, and he has won the All-Star Race in Charlotte in 2016 in his career as well.
Betting Insights
For those interested in wagering on the All-Star Race, the betting odds from DraftKings Sportsbook provide valuable insights on who is expected to compete for the checkered flag:
- Kyle Larson +500
- Ryan Blaney +600
- Denny Hamlin +600
- Christopher Bell +600
- William Byron +800
- Joey Logano +800
- Chase Elliott +900
Larson’s previous success at North Wilkesboro and his current form make him a favorite among bettors. Hamlin’s short-track dominance and recent victories position him as a strong candidate. Byron’s versatility and ability to perform on big stages enhance his appeal. But this race could go in any number of directions.
For prop bets, Larson’s odds for a top-three finish are favorable, given his track record and current performance. Matchup bets, may also present opportunities, including Kyle Larson to finish ahead of Christopher Bell at -130.
Before betting on the 2025 NASCAR All-Star Race, bettors should be sure to take advantage of the current DraftKings Sportsbook bonus. There, bettors can bet $5 on this race and get $200 in bonus bets instantly, even if their first bet does not win.
NASCAR All-Star Race Prediction
Considering current form, track history, and betting odds, Kyle Larson stands out as the top pick to win the 2025 NASCAR All-Star Race. His previous victory at North Wilkesboro and strong performances on short tracks this season make him a compelling choice.
Denny Hamlin is a close contender, with his short-track expertise and recent wins indicating a strong possibility of success. William Byron will also be in the mix, among the other names listed above.
In conclusion, the 2025 NASCAR All-Star Race promises intense competition and an exciting night of racing. Kyle Larson’s combination of experience and current form positions him as the favorite, but with a field of talented drivers, surprises are always possible.
