The NASCAR Xfinity Series is set for an exciting 2025 campaign, which kicks off February 15 at Daytona International Speedway. From defending champion Justin Allgaier’s quest to repeat to the return of historic venues, here are the major storylines to watch this season.

Youth Movement at JR Motorsports The spotlight is on 18-year-old Connor Zilisch, who joins JR Motorsports full-time in the No. 88 Chevrolet. After winning at Watkins Glen in his first Xfinity start last season, expectations are high for the teenage sensation. Alongside fellow young gun Carson Kvapil in the No. 1 car, JRM is betting big on its next generation of talent.

RCR’s Dynamic Duo Richard Childress Racing returns with a formidable pairing of Austin Hill and Jesse Love. Coming off a strong 2024 where they combined for five wins and Love captured Rookie of the Year honors, both drivers aim to contend for the championship in 2025.

New Teams and Familiar Faces The newly-formed Haas Factory Team debuts with Sheldon Creed and Sam Mayer behind the wheel. Joe Gibbs Racing welcomes back Brandon Jones while adding 18-year-old ARCA East champion William Sawalich to pilot the No. 18 car.

Historic Track Returns After a 20-year absence, Rockingham Speedway makes its highly anticipated return to the schedule on April 19. The series will also go international with a June 14 race at Mexico City’s Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, marking its first visit to the track since 2008.

Leadership Transition The series enters a new era as Eric Peterson takes over as series director following the retirement of longtime director Wayne Auton after the 2024 season.

Championship Defense After capturing his first Xfinity Series title in 2024 following 14 full-time seasons, Justin Allgaier faces a new challenge: becoming the first back-to-back champion of his era. The veteran driver will need to fend off both his young teammates and a hungry field of competitors to retain his crown.

The 33-race season promises plenty of action as established veterans battle rising stars across both familiar venues and returning classics. With fresh faces in new places and history on the line, the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series campaign is shaping up to be one of the most compelling in recent memory.