Charlotte Motor Speedway isn’t just another stop on the NASCAR calendar. It’s a cathedral of speed and tradition. Built in 1959 by Bruton Smith and racing legend Curtis Turner, the 1.5-mile track opened its gates with the inaugural World 600 in 1960, now known as the Coca-Cola 600, the longest race in NASCAR history.

Over the decades, this Concord, North Carolina track has seen it all: moonshine runners turned racers, dramatic finishes under the lights, and the birth of legends like Jeff Gordon and Dale Earnhardt. The speedway has weathered financial storms, set world records, and even hosted the premiere of Pixar’s Cars! Every Memorial Day weekend, the Coca-Cola 600 tests drivers and teams like no other, demanding endurance, strategy, and a little bit of luck. With so much history, the question on every fan’s mind is: who’s taking on the challenge this year?

Who’s racing in the 2025 Coca-Cola 600?

The Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway is NASCAR’s ultimate test of endurance and strategy. Every Memorial Day weekend, this 600-mile, 400-lap marathon pushes drivers and teams to their limits as day turns to night. The 2025 edition is the 13th points race of the season and promises a star-studded field, dramatic storylines, and a tribute to both racing and military heroes.

Last year, Christopher Bell conquered the rain-shortened event (249 laps) to claim his first Coca-Cola 600 victory. He returns in the No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota, aiming to defend his crown against a stacked field. His recent win in the All-Star Race will add to his momentum. Hopefully for Joe Gibbs, Bell can convert it into his second win at the Charlotte track.

The entry list features 40 cars, including Cup champions, hungry rookies, and a few surprise names that have fans buzzing. One of the biggest headlines is the return of seven-time Cup champion Jimmie Johnson. Johnson, who finished third in the 2025 Daytona 500, will drive the No. 84 Toyota for Legacy Motor Club—a team he co-owns. Johnson has an impressive track record with four Coca-Cola 600 wins, including three consecutive wins in 2003, 2004, and 2005. Notably, Johnson’s participation in the 2025 event will also be his 700th career start.

Another highlight is the comeback of 18-year-old Connor Zilisch. After suffering a back injury at Talladega, Zilisch is back in the No. 87 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet for his second Cup start. This is also Zilisch’s first Cup appearance at an oval track. Being a road course maestro, Zilisch will have a tall task at hand if he has to conquer the grueling 600-mile behemoth.

Meanwhile, rookies like Riley Herbst and Shane van Gisbergen are vying for Rookie of the Year honors, and a crown jewel to their name would certainly help the cause. Several “Open” entries, including Johnson and Zilisch, add intrigue to the lineup. With 40 cars set to take the green flag, the 2025 Coca-Cola 600 promises high drama, emotional moments, and a showcase of NASCAR’s best. Here’s the complete entry list for this year’s race at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

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Memorial Day celebrations at the 2025 Coca-Cola 600

The Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway is more than just a race—it’s a moving Memorial Day tribute. Thus, every year, NASCAR and its fans come together to honor the nation’s military heroes during this historic event. The 2025 edition, the 66th running of the race, continues this powerful tradition with a weekend packed full of patriotic celebrations and heartfelt remembrance.

Military appreciation takes center stage throughout the festivities. Each NASCAR Cup Series driver will carry the name of a fallen service member on their windshield. This will be a part of the “600 Miles of Remembrance” program. This gesture ensures that the legacy of these heroes rides with the sport’s best, lap after lap. The families of 42 fallen service members will be honored as special guests, enjoying a Gold Star Family luncheon and a day of recognition at the speedway.

The pre-race show is a spectacle in itself. Fans are treated to stirring military performances, flyovers, and tributes from the North Carolina Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association. The association’s restored helicopters and stories add a personal touch, connecting past and present generations of service members.

This year’s Coca-Cola 600 will also feature U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth as the Grand Marshal. Hegseth, sworn in as the nation’s top defense official in January 2025, oversees the Department of Defense and serves as principal defense policy advisor to the President. He will deliver the iconic command, “Drivers, start your engines!” alongside representatives from the U.S. Army, Marine Corps, and Navy.

For many, this race is the most patriotic sports event in the country. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a first-time visitor, the Coca-Cola 600 delivers a Memorial Day experience that honors sacrifice and celebrates freedom in unforgettable style. Be sure to witness it, whether on track or at home!