Kasey Kahne Returns to NASCAR for One-Off Xfinity Race with Richard Childress Racing

Kasey Kahne is making a surprising return to NASCAR after six years away from stock car racing.¹

The 44-year-old former Cup Series driver will pilot the No. 33 Chevrolet for Richard Childress Racing (RCR) in the 2025 Xfinity Series race at Rockingham Speedway.

The car will be sponsored by HendrickCars.com, a company owned by NASCAR legend Rick Hendrick.

This one-off appearance marks an exciting moment for NASCAR fans, as Kahne, a former Hendrick Motorsports driver, takes on the historic track once again.

Kasey Kahne: NASCAR Career

Early Days and Rise to Prominence

Kahne burst onto the NASCAR scene in the early 2000s, quickly making a name for himself with his aggressive driving style and natural talent.²

He debuted in the NASCAR Cup Series in 2004, driving the No. 9 Dodge for Evernham Motorsports. That year, he finished second five times and won the Rookie of the Year award.

His first Cup victory came in 2005 at Richmond Raceway, solidifying his status as a rising star.

Success with Evernham Motorsports

Kahne’s most successful season came in 2006 when he won six Cup races, including the Coca-Cola 600.

He became one of the sport’s brightest young talents and finished eighth in the championship standings. His ability to perform on intermediate tracks made him a constant threat to win races.

After stints with Evernham Motorsports (which later became Richard Petty Motorsports) and Red Bull Racing, Kahne landed a coveted ride at Hendrick Motorsports in 2012.

Driving the No. 5 Chevrolet, he earned two playoff appearances and won six races for the organization. His most notable victories included two more Coca-Cola 600 wins and a Brickyard 400 triumph in 2017.

Departure from NASCAR Due to Medical Issues

In 2018, Kahne shocked the NASCAR world when he announced his early retirement from the Cup Series due to medical concerns.

He had suffered from severe dehydration issues that affected his ability to complete races. Despite efforts to find a solution, he ultimately stepped away from full-time racing.

Richard Childress Racing (RCR) recently unveiled the paint scheme for Kahne’s No. 33 Chevrolet, which he will drive at Rockingham Speedway in April 2025.

The livery features a bright blue color with sponsorship from HendrickCars.com, making it instantly recognizable on the track.

Kasey Kahne’s Current Racing Ventures

High Limit Racing

Although Kahne stepped away from NASCAR, he didn’t retire from racing entirely.³

He has been competing in sprint cars, primarily in High Limit Racing, a series co-founded by Kyle Larson.

Kahne owns Kasey Kahne Racing (KKR), which fields the No. 9 sprint car he often drives.

Kahne’s return to NASCAR presents an interesting contrast to his dirt racing career. While sprint car racing demands a different skill set, his recent track time in high-powered machines should help him quickly reacclimate to stock cars.

Despite being away from NASCAR for six years, Kahne remains a highly skilled driver. While he may face a learning curve in adapting to the Xfinity Series car, his past experience and talent could make him competitive.

The Role of RCR Equipment

Richard Childress Racing has a strong Xfinity Series program, consistently producing winning cars. This should give Kahne a solid chance to perform well. If he quickly adapts, a top-10 or even a top-five finish isn’t out of the question.

Kahne’s one-off race at Rockingham raises questions about whether he might consider additional NASCAR starts in the future. If he enjoys the experience and performs well, he could be open to more part-time opportunities.

Kahne’s return is significant not just for him but for longtime NASCAR fans who remember his glory days. Seeing a fan-favorite driver back behind the wheel will be a highlight of the 2025 season.

With NASCAR focusing on bringing back historic tracks, Kahne’s presence at Rockingham could help boost interest in the venue. If the race is successful, it could further solidify Rockingham’s place in the sport’s future.

Kahne’s comeback could inspire other retired NASCAR drivers to consider one-off returns. If his race goes well, it might open the door for similar comebacks from past stars.

Kasey Kahne’s Legacy in NASCAR

Before diving into his latest venture, it’s important to understand the impact Kasey Kahne has had on NASCAR.

Kahne made his Cup Series debut in 2004 and quickly gained recognition for his raw talent and aggressive driving style. Throughout his career, he secured 18 Cup Series victories, including marquee wins at Charlotte, Atlanta, and Pocono.

Despite stepping away from full-time competition in 2018 due to health issues, Kahne’s passion for racing never waned.

He continued competing in dirt track events and maintained a connection to the NASCAR community. Now, with his return to Rockingham, Kahne is reigniting his love for stock car racing.

Kasey Kahne, a seasoned NASCAR driver, is making waves once again as he prepares for a one-off return to stock car racing at Rockingham Speedway. The former Cup Series driver, who clinched a Truck Series victory at the historic track in 2012, is excited to be back behind the wheel for this special event.

The History of Rockingham Speedway in NASCAR

Rockingham Speedway, also known as “The Rock,” holds a special place in NASCAR history.

The 1.017-mile oval in North Carolina was once a staple on the Cup Series schedule before being removed in 2004 due to declining attendance and market shifts.

The track saw a brief revival in 2012 when NASCAR’s Truck Series made a one-off return, a race that Kahne famously won. The event showcased Rockingham’s unique ability to challenge drivers with tire wear and multiple racing grooves.

Now, with the speedway set to host an Xfinity Series race, fans are eager to see if this return can bring the track back into NASCAR’s long-term plans.

With the support of racing legends Rick Hendrick and Richard Childress, Kahne has expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity.

In this article, we will delve into his return, the significance of Rockingham Speedway, his relationship with key figures in the sport, and what fans can expect from this exciting comeback.

Kasey Kahne’s Excitement for Rockingham’s Return

In an official press release by Richard Childress Racing (RCR), Kahne expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming race.

The opportunity to compete at Rockingham again is a full-circle moment for the veteran driver.

“I’m excited to get back behind the wheel of a stock car, especially at a place like Rockingham Speedway,” Kahne said. “Rockingham has been a special track throughout my career. I remember winning the Truck Series race in 2012 when the sport went back there last, so to be a part of the current return is cool.”

His words reflect not only his personal excitement but also the broader importance of reviving historic racetracks in NASCAR.

The Influence of Rick Hendrick and Richard Childress

Kahne took a moment to thank two of the most influential figures in NASCAR: Rick Hendrick and Richard Childress.

Both Hendrick and Childress have played pivotal roles in shaping Kahne’s career. He drove for Hendrick Motorsports from 2012 to 2017, where he won six races, including a dramatic victory at Indianapolis Motor Speedway in 2017.

Now, with Richard Childress Racing backing his return, Kahne is grateful for the continued support from two legends of the sport.

“Very appreciative of the opportunity that Mr. Hendrick, Richard (Childress), and everyone at RCR have given me, along with the support of HendrickCars.com, Chevrolet, Curb Records, and Karavan Trailers,” Kahne remarked.

This collaboration underscores the respect and admiration Kahne has earned throughout his career.

Ahead of the race, Kahne took the opportunity to run a few test laps at Rockingham to assess the car’s performance. His feedback is crucial, as the track’s aging surface presents unique challenges in terms of tire wear and handling.

While specific details of his feedback have not been released, Kahne’s experience at the track gives him an edge. He understands how to navigate its quirks, making him a strong contender in the upcoming Xfinity Series event.

Kasey Kahne: Podcast

Kasey Kahne appeared on the new podcast of Dirty Mo Mind and shared the interview link on their instagram account.

 

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Why This Race Matters for NASCAR’s Future

• NASCAR’s decision to bring back Rockingham for an Xfinity Series race is not just a nostalgic move; it could signal a broader trend of reviving classic venues.
• With North Wilkesboro Speedway also making a comeback in recent years, Rockingham’s return adds to the growing list of historic tracks getting a second chance.
• If the April 19 event proves successful, it could pave the way for more races at Rockingham, potentially even a return to the Cup Series in the future.
• For Kahne, participating in this event is about more than just racing—it’s about being part of something bigger.
• For fans eager to see Kahne back in action, the 250-lap Xfinity Series race at Rockingham Speedway will take place on April 19 at 4 PM ET.
• The event will be broadcast live, and tickets are available for those who want to witness this historic moment in person.
• Whether you’re a longtime Kahne supporter or simply a NASCAR fan excited about Rockingham’s return, this race is shaping up to be a must-watch event.