The annual all star nascar race remains one of the biggest highlights on the motorsports calendar. In 2025, North Wilkesboro Speedway once again hosts this prestigious event, drawing the best NASCAR drivers and a loyal fanbase eager for high-speed excitement and unique race formats.

What Makes the All Star NASCAR Race Unique?

Unlike regular points races, the all star nascar race is a non-points exhibition, but drivers still compete fiercely for a $1 million prize and bragging rights. This year’s race introduces a longer 250-lap format on the historic 0.625-mile North Wilkesboro track, ensuring more action and strategy. For fans, this creates an unmissable showdown under the lights, packed with drama and surprises on every lap.

Qualifying and Heat Race Highlights

Setting the starting lineup, heat races delivered plenty of drama. As recapped in NASCAR's official report, Brad Keselowski claimed the pole by winning the first heat after also being fastest in time trials. Christopher Bell dominated the second heat, earning the other front-row spot. These heats gave drivers a preview of track conditions and showed just how competitive the field would be for the main event.

Who’s Racing? All Star Lineup and Format

Twenty-three of NASCAR's finest will contest the 2025 all star nascar race. As detailed in USA TODAY’s preview, 20 drivers qualify automatically, two more earn their spots via the All-Star Open, and the final driver joins through a fan vote. The race is now 250 laps, with breaks ensuring pit-stop strategies come into play.

The top starters this year are:

• Brad Keselowski (pole)
• Christopher Bell (outside front row)
• Ross Chastain
• Joey Logano
• William Byron
• Chase Elliott

…and many more, with established stars and fan favorites in the mix. The combination of seasoned champions and rising young talents makes the event one to watch.

How to Watch and What to Expect

Fans can catch the action live on FS1 or stream it through platforms like Max and the Fox Sports app. Coverage kicks off with the All-Star Open at 5 p.m. ET, followed by the main all star nascar race at 8 p.m. ET. Expect intense competition, as each driver aims for glory in this unique, million-dollar shootout.

For more details on where and how to watch, including streaming options, refer to the USA TODAY streaming guide.

Key Takeaways for Fans

• The all star nascar race is an annual highlight with a dramatic format and high stakes.
• This year’s event at North Wilkesboro features a bigger field and more laps than ever.
• Heat races decided the crucial starting positions, with standout performances by Keselowski and Bell.
• Fans can follow every moment on TV or via streaming platforms, ensuring no one misses a lap of the action.

Whether you’re a seasoned NASCAR follower or a newcomer to the sport, the 2025 all star nascar race promises edge-of-your-seat racing and unforgettable moments. Don’t miss your chance to witness the excitement at North Wilkesboro Speedway!