**TLDR** — Ford's 2025 title hopes have NASCAR fans split down the middle, but patience is winning out. In our latest poll of 414 readers, 42% said they'll get a better read on the Blue Oval's championship chances halfway through the season, refusing to write off the manufacturer this early. Right behind them, 41% still believe Ford has a knack for late-season heroics, with one reader insisting the brand has "been the underdog before and proved everybody wrong." Only 17% think the new format has slammed the door shut. Others pointed to NASCAR's cyclical nature, arguing manufacturers "cycle top to bottom" depending on who finds the next edge. One reader even suggested Toyota's hot start might trigger a backlash if the advantage holds all year. The consensus? Ford isn't dead — it's just biding its time until the cards reshuffle.
Essentially Sports
Apr 25, 2026
Do You Think Ford Can Still Mount a Late Title Charge?
42%
We’ll Get a Better Idea Halfway Through the Season
173
41%
Yes, They Have a Knack for It
169
17%
No, the Format’s Changed Now
72
414 readers voted
We asked readers to weigh in — 5 shared their take. Here’s what they said:
Reader Reactions
5
fa**e**2**b@yahoo.com
Apr 24, 2026 · 8:27 PM EDT
It’s a see saw sport. Your on top one day and a on the bottom the next manufacturers cycle top to bottom just depends on when they find a better advantage
ed***a***s***0@gmail.com
Apr 24, 2026 · 12:23 PM EDT
Ford Motor Company has been the under dog before and proved everybody wrong
ed*ie8@rochester.rr.com
Apr 24, 2026 · 3:17 PM EDT
They will be in it, as for late charge, not so sure
mi****l***s****4@gmail.com
Apr 24, 2026 · 1:01 PM EDT
Ford is Ford. What can’t be done is always a goal left to be achieved. Next problem; Trackhouse Racing. Any input? ME
ra**o*o*0@gmail.com
Apr 24, 2026 · 2:36 PM EDT
not even a third of the season gone yotas way , ford and Chevy aren't dead , just unlucky so far its about to turn around for them , or is nascar giving the advantage all season to yota , if so they will regret the backlash !!!