The much‑anticipated sequel to the 1990 racing classic *Days of Thunder* is slated for a 2028 release, reuniting Tom Cruise with actress Anne Hathaway and promising a fresh look at the world of NASCAR that inspired the original film.
Hollywood Meets the Track
Joey Logano, Chase Briscoe and Kyle Larson have all expressed a strong desire to appear in the new movie, hoping that a cameo would delight their children and satisfy the fervor of their fan bases.
Logano, a three‑time Cup Series champion with 71 career victories, said that sharing the screen with Cruise would be a source of pride he could not imagine surpassing, especially as his kids have grown up watching the original film repeatedly.
Chase Briscoe, the 2022 NASCAR Cup Series rookie champion, has voiced enthusiasm for a possible role, even hinting that the production might feature authentic driver cars, while Kyle Larson joked that he would avoid any actions that could jeopardize the movie but would love to be present on set.
A Legacy Revived
During a recent visit to Daytona International Speedway, Cruise met directly with the drivers, discussing the sequel’s production details and the evolution of the sport since the original 1990 outing, a meeting that underscored his personal connection to the racing community.
Hendrick Motorsports, which helped produce the first *Days of Thunder* film, is being courted for a deeper involvement in the sequel, though the exact nature of its contribution remains unclear; Jeff Gordon, the four‑time champion now serving as vice chairman at Hendrick, has publicly urged Cruise to move forward, recalling a longstanding friendship that dates back to their shared racing heritage.
The original *Days of Thunder* featured legendary drivers such as Richard Petty, Rusty Wallace, Neil Bonnett and Harry Gant, whose performances left a lasting impression on Logano, who has watched the movie multiple times with his children, reinforcing his hope for a cameo that would bridge generations.
With the combination of Hollywood star power, seasoned NASCAR talent, and a legacy that spans nearly four decades, the 2028 *Days of Thunder* sequel is shaping up to be a unique crossover event that could redefine both cinema and motorsport storytelling.