Harrison Burton to make unexpected Cup return in the All-Star Race

Harrison Burton, 24, started 109 points-paying races in the NASCAR Cup Series, but none this year. While it’s just an exhibition race and doesn’t count towards the championship, he will take part in the 2025 All-Star Race this weekend at North Wilkesboro Speedway.

Burton will pilot the No. 51 Rick Ware Racing Ford Mustang in the All-Star Race. Burton is one of 20 drivers who automatically qualify for the main event due to his shock win at Daytona last summer. Cody Ware, who normally drives the No. 51, will be in the No. 15 for the Open, which is the race to make the All-Star Race. The Open will feature 18 drivers. With Burton in the seat, RWR will take part in the All-Star Race for the very first time.

“Being a part of the NASCAR All-Star Race for the first time is a milestone moment for our organization,” said Rick Ware, team owner. “It’s an honor to have a place in the main event, and we’re just as proud to provide Harrison the opportunity to compete in the All-Star Race. He definitely earned his spot and he deserves to be  here. It’s a big opportunity for both of us.”

A first for RWR, but also for Burton

Burton lost his full-time ride in the Cup Series after the Wood Brothers decided to let him go last year, signing Josh Berry as his replacement. However, his unexpected victory in the penultimate round of the regular season took him from last in the standings to inside the playoffs. It was Burton’s only win as a Cup driver and the 100th for the legendary Wood Brothers team. This will be his first appearance in the All-Star Race as well, having previously competed in the Open on three occasions without advancing.

“The All-Star Race is one of those events you grow up dreaming about, so to have a spot on the grid is really special,” said Burton. “Winning at Daytona last year was a huge moment in my career, and I’m thankful to Rick and the entire RWR team for giving me the opportunity to make that win count by putting me in their car for the All-Star Race. We’ve been building some great momentum in the Xfinity Series, and I’m looking forward to carrying that into North Wilkesboro and competing against the best in the sport.”

Burton ended up placing last in the 16-driver playoffs last year, but found a new ride in the NASCAR Xfinity Series for 2025. Driving for AM Racing, he has performed solidly with one top five and six top tens in the first 12 races of the year. He currently sits tenth in the overall standings.