NASCAR introduces controversial new wrinkle to 2025 All-Star Race format at North Wilkesboro

NASCAR and Speedway Motorsports officials unveiled Wednesday the format for the 2025 All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway. The All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro, scheduled for Sunday, May 18, features an expanded 250-lap main event, revisions to the Pit Crew Challenge and a Manufacturer Showdown.

But the one significant change is the introduction of a Promoter’s Caution. Essentially a competition caution, the Promoter’s Caution allows for a yellow flag to be thrown prior to Lap 220. The Promoter’s Caution is optional. If it hasn’t been used by Lap 200 and a “natural” caution comes out after Lap 200, the Promoter’s Caution is no longer eligible to be thrown.

According to Nate Ryan of NBC Sports, the late Bruton Smith, Speedway Motorsports founder and NASCAR Hall of Famer, “advocated throwing intentional cautions to bunch up the field and spice up the racing.” Three years after his death at age 95, the Promoter’s Caution is here.

Then there’s the Manufacturer Showdown. Whichever manufacturer — Chevrolet, Toyota, Ford — has the lowest combined overall finish wins the Manufacturer Showdown. The teams will be established after the main event lineup is set with the manufacturer with the least representation determining the number of cars per team, per NBC Sports.

Drivers automatically in NASCAR All-Star Race

This is the third annual All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro. Kyle Larson won the 2023 event, with Joey Logano taking the checkered flag last season. The following drivers have clinched spots in the field: Christopher Bell, Josh Berry, Ryan Blaney, Alex Bowman, Chase Briscoe, Chris Buescher, Kyle Busch, William Byron, Ross Chastain, Austin Cindric, Austin Dillon, Chase Elliott, Denny Hamlin, Brad Keselowski, Larson, Logano, Tyler Reddick, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Daniel Suárez.

Three drivers will advance to the All-Star Race main event from the 100-lap All-Star Open — the top two finishers and winner of a NASCAR.com fan vote. The winner of the 250-lap main event takes home $1 million.

“The NASCAR All-Star Race continues to evolve as one of the most fun and innovative events on our calendar,” said John Probst, executive vice president and chief racing development officer. “Returning to historic North Wilkesboro Speedway for the third year in a row allows us to honor our sport’s roots while pushing the envelope with fresh competitive elements.

“The introduction of the Manufacturer Showdown brings a new layer of intensity and pride for our OEM partners, and fans can expect even more strategy, teamwork and drama on race day.”