The 2025 NASCAR Cup Series weekend at Nashville Superspeedway is set to kick off on May 30 with the Cracker Barrel 400 qualifying session, a 3:40 p.m. CT start that will determine the lineup for the 400‑mile race later in the weekend. Practice will precede the shoot‑out at 2:30 p.m. CT, giving teams a final chance to fine‑tune their setups on the 1.33‑mile concrete oval.
The field will feature 38 entries, including heavyweights such as Ross Chastain, Chase Elliott, Denny Hamlin, and a host of other championship contenders. The competitive grid reflects a season that has already delivered a mix of surprise winners and consistent performers, setting the stage for a tightly contested qualifying round.
The weekend will also carry a somber note. Kyle Busch, the veteran driver and former champion, passed away on May 21 after complications from pneumonia. His death has prompted tributes across the sport, with many fans and competitors observing moments of silence before practice and qualifying.
In the wake of Busch’s loss, Austin Hill will step into the No. 33 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet. Hill, who has been a consistent presence in the Xfinity Series, brings a fresh perspective and a drive to honor his late predecessor. His entry adds depth to a lineup that has seen several driver changes in recent weeks.
A new chapter for the No. 33
The introduction of Hill into the storied No. 33 brings a narrative of continuity and change. While the car has been a fixture in NASCAR history, the new driver will look to imprint his own style on the car’s legacy, aiming for strong performances that keep the team competitive in the playoffs.
The qualifying session will be streamed live on Amazon Prime Video, allowing viewers worldwide to watch the final runs that will shape the race grid. The broadcast will also feature behind‑the‑scenes access, interviews with crew chiefs, and analysis from former drivers turned commentators.
Beyond the on‑track action, the event highlights Nashville’s growing role in the NASCAR calendar. The city’s vibrant music scene and culinary offerings complement the racing atmosphere, making the weekend a unique blend of sport and culture.