
It’s official: Kasey Kahne is back. Richard Childress Racing announced Friday that the former Cup Series star will climb back into a stock car for the Xfinity Series’ grand return to Rockingham Speedway on April 19. Yes, Rockingham—the track that’s almost as legendary for its gritty charm as it is for tearing up tires faster than a teenager burns through data.
Kahne, ever the understated enthusiast, said, “I’m excited to get back behind the wheel of a stock car, especially at a place like Rockingham Speedway.” For those who don’t know (or forgot in the haze of today’s superspeedway monotony), Rockingham is where Kahne made magic in 2012, winning a Truck Series race when NASCAR last flirted with the track. He’s eager to replicate that history, supported by a who’s-who list of sponsors, including HendrickCars.com, Chevrolet, Curb Records, and Karavan Trailers—because why wouldn’t you want to hitch your name to Kahne’s return?
The stats don’t lie: 18 Cup wins, 93 top-fives, 176 top-10s, and victories at crown jewels like the Brickyard and Coca-Cola 600 (three times, if you’re counting). Throw in his 2023 accolade as one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers, and Kahne’s resume practically screams, “Ready for a comeback!”
Richard Childress is predictably bullish. “Kasey is a great driver and a fierce competitor,” said Childress, before adding that with the No. 33, they’re eyeing nothing short of victory lane. No pressure, Kasey.
And then there’s Rick Hendrick, who couldn’t resist chiming in, calling Kahne “a great friend and an incredibly talented driver.” He also threw in a nod to Childress Racing, which, coming from a man who’s practically synonymous with Chevrolet dominance, is as close to a glowing endorsement as you’ll get.
The first step in Kahne’s return begins at Rockingham on January 28, where he’ll shake down the car during a test session. So mark your calendars, stock up on popcorn, and prepare for the glorious sight of Kasey Kahne tearing around “The Rock” once again. If this isn’t a reason to love NASCAR, I don’t know what is.
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