The 2025 NASCAR Cup season was one of the most thrilling and unpredictable years in recent memory. From unexpected race outcomes to intense rivalries, this season had it all. As the season came to a close, we saw some drivers achieve great success while others faced disappointment. Let’s take a look at the five biggest surprises and five biggest disappointments of the 2025 NASCAR Cup season.
Biggest Surprises:
1. Denny Hamlin’s Outstanding Performance
Denny Hamlin, the driver of the No. 11 Toyota, had an incredible season with a total of six wins, the most among all drivers. His dominant performances on the track had fans and experts alike predicting that this could finally be the year he wins his first-ever Cup championship. But unfortunately, it was not meant to be as he fell just two places short in the season finale at Phoenix. Nevertheless, Hamlin’s consistent and stellar performance was a huge surprise for many in the NASCAR world.
2. Rookie Sensation, Kyle Larson
Kyle Larson, the rookie driver of the No. 5 Chevrolet, made quite a splash in his debut season in the Cup Series. Larson impressed everyone with his raw talent and fearless driving style, earning him three wins and numerous top-five finishes. He even made it to the Championship 4 at Phoenix, showing us that he is a force to be reckoned with. Larson’s performance exceeded all expectations and he will undoubtedly be a top contender for the Cup championship in years to come.
3. Martin Truex Jr.’s Incredible Comeback
After a difficult 2024 season, many had written off Martin Truex Jr. But the driver of the No. 19 Toyota had other plans. He came back with a vengeance, winning four races and securing his spot in the Championship 4. Truex Jr. proved that he is still a force to be reckoned with and put all doubts to rest with his impressive comeback season.
4. Daniel Suarez’s First Cup Series Win
Daniel Suarez, the driver of the No. 99 Ford, achieved a major milestone in the 2025 season by winning his first-ever Cup Series race at Richmond. It was a long-awaited victory for Suarez and the entire team at Trackhouse Racing. Suarez’s win came as a surprise to many, but it was well-deserved and a momentous occasion for the young driver.
5. Team Penske’s Dominant Performance
Team Penske had an exceptional season, with all three of their drivers- Brad Keselowski, Joey Logano, and Ryan Blaney- winning races and making it to the playoffs. Their consistent and dominant performance as a team put them in a league of their own and they were the team to beat throughout the season. It was a surprise to see all three drivers performing at such a high level and it solidified Team Penske’s position as one of the top teams in NASCAR.
Biggest Disappointments:
1. Chase Elliott’s Early Exit from the Playoffs
The reigning Cup Series champion, Chase Elliott, had a disappointing season by his standards. After winning five races in 2024, expectations were high for him to defend his title. However, Elliott’s season was cut short when he failed to make it to the Round of 8 in the playoffs. It was a tough blow for Elliott and his team, but they will undoubtedly come back stronger next season.
2. Kevin Harvick’s Struggle to Repeat 2024 Success
Kevin Harvick had a record-breaking season in 2024, winning nine races and dominating the playoffs. But unfortunately, the No. 4 team was unable to replicate that success in 2025. Harvick failed to win a race and didn’t make it past the Round of 12 in the playoffs. It was a surprise to see the reigning regular season champion struggle, but it goes to show the unpredictable nature of NASCAR.
3. Hendrick Motorsports’ Lackluster Performance
Hendrick Motorsports, one of the most successful teams in NASCAR, had a lackluster season in 2025. The team failed to secure a win until the 21st race of the season and only had a total of two wins throughout the year. This was a major disappointment for a team that has had a history of dominance in the Cup Series. However, with a young and talented lineup, Hendrick Motorsports will surely bounce back in
