Imagine a racing spectacle that rivals the intensity of its American counterpart, but with a distinctly European flair. That’s exactly what the 2025 NASCAR Euro Series delivered, and it left over 155,000 fans utterly captivated. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can Europe truly rival the U.S. when it comes to stock car racing? The numbers and the atmosphere suggest it’s not just competing—it’s thriving.
The 14th official NASCAR season in Europe roared to life with six adrenaline-fueled race weekends, 24 races across the PRO and OPEN championships, and a staggering 155,600 fans trackside. This wasn’t just racing; it was a celebration of speed, skill, and the unbridled passion of motorsports enthusiasts. The season culminated at Circuit Zolder in Belgium, where 14,000 spectators witnessed history in the making. Italy’s Vittorio Ghirelli defended his PRO title with grit, while Thomas Krasonis became the first Greek champion in the OPEN division. Both victories were secured under the banner of PK Carsport, a Belgian team that knows Zolder like the back of their hand.
What sets the NASCAR Euro Series apart? It’s not just the on-track action—though the fender-to-fender racing is undeniably thrilling. It’s the fan experience. With open paddocks, pit and grid walks, and unrestricted access to drivers, fans feel like part of the action. And this is the part most people miss: The series’ success isn’t just about the racing; it’s about the business model. Low costs, affordable spare parts, and tire rules that level the playing field make it accessible for teams and drivers. Compare that to the high-budget TCR and GT4 series, and you’ll see why the NASCAR Euro Series is a powerhouse in its own right.
But let’s address the elephant in the room: Is NASCAR in Europe as ‘pure’ as its American counterpart? With no electronic aids and a focus on driver skill, the series argues it’s all about raw racing. Yet, some purists might argue that the cars and tracks don’t quite match the iconic Superspeedways of the U.S. What do you think? Is the NASCAR Euro Series a worthy rival, or does it still have ground to cover?
As the 2026 season revs up, one thing is certain: the excitement isn’t slowing down. Five proven tracks are already on the schedule, with one secret venue yet to be revealed. Winter may be here, but the ‘silly season’ of speculation and preparation is in full swing. Mark your calendars for April 18th, because the countdown to another heart-pounding season has already begun. Buckle up—this is NASCAR racing, European style, and it’s here to stay.
Featured image by NASCAR Euro Series / Bart Dehaese
