The road to 500 starts
Casey Mears is on the cusp of a remarkable achievement: his 500th start in the NASCAR Cup Series will be recorded at the historic Homestead‑Miami Speedway during the 2026 season finale in November.
The veteran, who began his top‑level career with Hendrick Motorsports, has navigated a career marked by steady progression rather than weekly contention, yet his longevity reflects a deep‑rooted commitment to the sport.
A new chapter with Beard Motorsports
Mears will take the wheel of the No. 62 entry for Beard Motorsports at Pocono Raceway, a partnership that offers the driver a fresh platform as he prepares for the milestone race.
The move comes after a rain‑induced cancellation at Talladega Superspeedway, which briefly interrupted his schedule but did not diminish his resolve to reach the 500‑start threshold.
Homestead‑Miami’s final showdown
The Homestead‑Miami Speedway, long known for its high‑speed, flat‑out layout, will serve as the backdrop for Mears’ 500th appearance, a moment that will be celebrated by fans and peers alike.
While the veteran acknowledges that his recent performances have not placed him among the championship contenders, the milestone itself stands as a testament to his durability and the respect he has earned across decades of competition.