The 2025 NASCAR All-Star Race returns to North Wilkesboro Speedway for the third straight year with a $1 million payday on the line. Like All-Star events in other sports, fans will have a say in the participants, with the final three drivers in the 2025 NASCAR All-Star Race driver pool determined by a fan vote. The sport’s top stars, like Christopher Bell, Kyle Larson and Denny Hamlin, could be popular options for NASCAR DFS picks in the 250-lap race, so what’s the best way to form a NASCAR All-Star Race DFS strategy when the green flag drops at 8 p.m. ET on Sunday?

Joey Logano won last year’s NASCAR All-Star Race and although it didn’t count toward the NASCAR Cup Series standings, he went on to win the Cup Series title, so should your NASCAR All-Star Race DFS lineups include the driver you expect to hoist the ultimate title at the end of the season? Before locking in any NASCAR DFS picks for the NASCAR All-Star Race 2025 on sites like DraftKings and FanDuel, be sure to check out the optimal NASCAR at North Wilkesboro DFS strategy and advice from SportsLine’s Mike McClure. 

McClure has won over $2 million in his career as a daily Fantasy pro, and his NASCAR DFS driver pool, projections and advice can help you score a big win on Sunday on sites like FanDuel and DraftKings.

McClure’s model began its 2025 season by calling Chase Elliott to win for a +300 payout at the Clash at Bowman Gray and was also high on Byron as a +2000 longshot at Daytona. Then last week, it predicted Kyle Larson’s win in Miami for a +350 payout. In 2024, it nailed Larson to win in Las Vegas for a 21-5 sports betting payout and predicted Denny Hamlin’s wins in Bristol at 5-1 and Richmond at 17-4.

It also impressively nailed five of Larson’s wins during his historic season in 2021. All told, the model has nailed a whopping 20 winners since 2021, including nine in 2023 and three in the first seven races last season. Anyone who followed its lead on betting apps and sportsbooks on those NASCAR picks could have seen huge returns. You could even use its picks to take advantage of the latest Caesars promo code and BetMGM promo code.

Now, he’s turned his attention to Sunday’s NASCAR All-Star Race 2025. He’s only sharing his picks and NASCAR DFS driver pool here.

Top 2025 NASCAR All-Star Race NASCAR DFS picks

For the 2025 NASCAR All-Star Race, McClure is high on Tyler Reddick ($8,800 on DraftKings and $10,000 on FanDuel). Reddick isn’t off to the best start one-third of the way through the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season, but he’s still sixth in the NASCAR Cup Series standings as he’s avoided truly disastrous results. Reddick has never finished outside the top 25 this season, and his average finish of 13.7 is nearly on pace with his 13.2 average finish last year when he finished fourth in the NASCAR Cup Series standings. His ability to avoid finishing at the very bottom of the pack gives him a high floor for NASCAR DFS lineups.

The 29-year-old has finished in the top 15 in each of his first two NASCAR All-Star Races, including third in 2023. He was tied for the second-most top-10 finishes (21) last season with the third-most top-five results (13). Despite finishing outside the top 10 in four straight races, McClure likes Reddick’s value for Sunday. 

Part of McClure’s optimal NASCAR DFS strategy also includes rostering Kyle Busch ($7,800 on DraftKings and $7,000 on FanDuel). Busch has finished 20th or worse in each of his last three races, but those came after three straight results inside the top 20. Despite being just one-third of the way through the season, Busch already has 40% of the number of top-10 finishes he had last year as he’s in the midst of a bounceback season. Busch had four top-10 results this season, which is tied for the 11th-most in NASCAR.

The 40-year-old finished 10th at last year’s All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro Speedway. He’s one of the most experienced drivers in the driver pool, and Busch won the 2017 NASCAR All-Star Race. Busch doesn’t come at a high price and McClure sees him as a strong candidate to return value to 2025 NASCAR All-Star Race NASCAR DFS picks. See which other drivers to roster here.

How to set 2025 NASCAR at North Wilkesboro DFS lineups

McClure is also targeting an undervalued driver set to return plenty of value for his NASCAR DFS picks. He’s in a prime position to make a run at the checkered flag and comes at a price that won’t break the bank. You can see who it is, and every other pick, right here.

So what are the top NASCAR DFS picks for NASCAR at North Wilkesboro 2025? And which value driver is a must-roster? Visit SportsLine now to see DFS millionaire Mike McClure’s complete driver pool for DraftKings and FanDuel, for a chance to cash in big on NASCAR DFS.

The Truck and Cup series will be racing Saturday at North Wilkesboro Speedway as the 0.625-mile oval gets tuned up for Sunday’s All-Star Race.

The trucks will occupy a roughly six-hour window beginning with practice at 9:35 a.m. and immediately followed by qualifying at the track in North Wilkesboro, North Carolina.

A 250-lap Truck race will begin at 1:30 p.m. with Corey Heim in the field as the defending winner.

The Cup Series will cap the program with two 75-lap heat races to set the starting lineup for Sunday’s All-Star Race (aside from the pole-sitter, which was determined in Friday’s qualifying).

All-Star Race schedule at North Wilkesboro

(All Times Eastern)

Saturday, May 17

Garage open

• 8 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. — Truck Series
• 1:30 – 7:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. — Cup

Track activity

• 9:35 – 10:30 a.m. — Truck practice (FS2)
• 10:35 – 11:30 a.m. — Truck qualifying (FS2)
• 1:30 p.m. — Truck race (250 laps, 156.25 miles, Stage 1 at Lap 70, Stage 2 at Lap 140; FS1, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
• 5:10 p.m. — All-Star Race Heat 1 (75 laps, 46.875 miles, FS2, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)
• 6:15 p.m. — All-Star Race Heat 2 (75 laps, 46.875 miles, FS2, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio)

Weather

Saturday: Cloudy with a stray shower or thunderstorm possible. A high of 85 degrees and winds from the west-southwest at 10 to 20 mph. It’s expected to be 82 degrees with a 15% chance of rain at the start of the Truck race. It’s expected to be partly cloudy with a high of 82 degrees and a 15% chance of rain at the start of the first of the two Cup heat races.

RFK Racing driver and co-owner Brad Keselowski sped to the Busch Light Pole Award on Friday, setting a blistering pace in a unique qualifying effort that included a four-tire pit stop.

Keselowski will start first in both the opening Heat Race on Saturday night, then the main event itself on Sunday.

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The full lineup will be set by Heat Race results. See below for the full qualifying times.

NORTH WILKESBORO, N.C. — Former Cup champion Brad Keselowski said Friday that North Wilkesboro Speedway should host a points race and that the All-Star Race should return to Charlotte Motor Speedway.

Keselowski said such a move could mean the end of the Roval race at Charlotte Motor Speedway.

“I’d like to see the All-Star Race most likely return to Charlotte,” he said after winning the pole for Sunday’s All-Star Race. “That’s my only personal opinion.

After dominant performances the past two years, the exhibition event will have a new format and length.

“I think the Charlotte racetrack, particularly since it only has one race on the oval, I think that’s a miss for our sport.

“It’s a great racetrack, puts on some of the best racing. So, it would make sense to me if we were to revert back to that, make this (North Wilkesboro) a (points) race and probably get rid of a race like the Roval or something like that.”

Michael McDowell’s pit crew wins $100,000 bonus for the fastest four-tire stop.

When asked why get rid of the Roval, noting the event has had some memorable moments, Keselowski said: “Has it? Really? I look at the stands and there’s more (fans) that come to the oval race. Better ratings, too. I thought’s that what we judge the sport by.”

Charlotte Motor Speedway had two points races and the All-Star Race in 32 of 33 years from 1985-2017.

AJ Allmendinger expressed his frustration on his team’s radio with ECR Engines, which Richard Childress serves as Chairman and CEO, after the failure at Kansas.

The Roval debuted in 2018 to offset shrinking attendance in Charlotte’s playoff oval race. The Roval will host a playoff race for an eighth consecutive year. It has been a cutoff race each year. The Roval will end the second round again this year.

The All-Star Race left Charlotte after the 2019 season. It was held at Bristol in 2020 and Texas in 2021-22 before moving to North Wilkesboro in 2023, highlighting the track’s revival. Kyle Larson won the event on 2023. Joey Logano led all but one of the 200 laps in winning last year’s All-Star Race.

North Wilkesboro last hosted a Cup points race in 1996.

BJ McLeod will return to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series at Charlotte Motor Speedway, driving for Spire Motorsports, the team announced May 16.

McLeod will drive Spire’s No. 07 with sponsorship from Pigeon Forge Racing Coaster.

“Getting to race again in the NASCAR truck series with an incredible team is an honor,” McLeod said in a team release. “It’s a perfect partnership with Pigeon Forge Racing Coaster — speed, adrenaline, and pure excitement — both on the track and in the mountains. We’re ready to put on a show for the fans and make this ride one to remember.”

The race will mark McLeod’s first in the series since 2021, when he made two starts for Reaume Brothers Racing. He has 41 appearances in the series since 2010.

So far in 2025, McLeod has made two NASCAR Cup Series races in his own Live Fast Motorsports No. 78, while also failing to qualify for the Daytona 500.

Executive Editor at Frontstretch

Kevin Rutherford is the executive editor of Frontstretch, a position he gained in 2025 after being the managing editor since 2015, and serving on the editing staff since 2013.

At his day job, he’s a journalist covering music and rock charts at Billboard. He lives in New York City, but his heart is in Ohio — you know, like that Hawthorne Heights song.

No. 30 Rette Jones Racing OPEN Team:

Driver: Gil Linster

Primary Partner(s): Rette Jones Racing | Port City Racecars

Manufacturer: Ford Mustang

Crew Chief: Roy Hendriks

2025 Driver Points Position: First (+5) | 2025 Owner Points Position: First

No. 30 Rette Jones Racing PRO Team:

Driver: Liam Hezemans

Primary Partner(s): Rette Jones Racing | Port City Racecars

Manufacturer: Ford Mustang

Crew Chief: Roy Hendriks

2025 Driver Points Position: Fifth (-12) | 2025 Owner Points Position: Fifth

Notes of Interest:

● Inaugural Season: After a successful NASCAR Euro Series debut last month at Circuit Ricardo Tormo, Rette Jones Racing Euro surges forward with its two-driver program this weekend at Autodromo di Vallelunga, near Rome, Italy.

Building on the positive momentum from their inaugural outing, the team returns to competition with renewed confidence and a focus on consistency, performance, and growth as they continue their European campaign.

Both drivers are eager to capitalize on the experience gained in Valencia and aim to deliver strong results on the technical and fast-paced Vallelunga circuit.

EuroNASCAR’s American-themed festivals, close action, and pure racing have conquered the hearts of the passionate Italian tifosi, and the 2025 edition is shaping up to be no different.

As Rette Jones Racing prepares to tackle the technical demands of Vallelunga, the team is poised to build upon its momentum and embrace the unique blend of racing excitement and cultural immersion that this Italian venue offers.

● Rette Jones Racing Euro Fast Fact: This weekend marks the second weekend of Rette Jones Racing Euro competition in the NASCAR Euro Series.

Expanding their successful motorsports platform, the Mooresville, N.C.-based team will compete full-time in 2025, fielding entries in both the EuroNASCAR PRO and EuroNASCAR 2 (Open) divisions.

Gil Linster will represent the team in the EuroNASCAR 2 championship, while former EuroNASCAR 2 champion Liam Hezemans steps up to the PRO division.

Both drivers will pilot the No. 30 Ford Mustang, featuring Rette Jones Racing and Port City Racecars branding.

For its inaugural season, Rette Jones Racing has formed a technical alliance with powerhouse Hendriks Motorsport.

● Meet the Drivers: Hezemans, a native of Amsterdam, Netherlands, brings a strong résumé to the program as the 2022 EuroNASCAR 2 champion and a 10-time race winner in the series.

He is also the younger brother of Loris Hezemans, a two-time EuroNASCAR champion and former competitor in the NASCAR national series.

Linster, from Frisange, Luxembourg, will reunite with Hezemans for the 2025 season under the Rette Jones Racing banner.

A former Euro Series race winner, Linster gained international attention in February 2024 with an impressive top-10 finish in the ARCA Menards Series season opener at Daytona International Speedway, driving for Kimmel Racing.

● Get to Know Autodromo di Vallelunga: Autodromo di Vallelunga once again welcomes the NASCAR Euro Series gladiators for its annual NASCAR GP Italy, the second event of the 2025 season.

The 4.085-kilometer track located close to the Italian capital of Rome is gearing up for a fantastic new chapter in its long history.

Situated approximately 30 kilometers north of Rome in Campagnano di Roma, the Autodromo di Vallelunga “Piero Taruffi” is a historic racing circuit renowned for its challenging layout and rich motorsport heritage.

Initially established in 1951 as a sand oval, the track was transformed into an asphalt circuit in 1957 under the guidance of Italian racing legend Piero Taruffi.

Today, the circuit features a 4.085-kilometer International layout with 14 turns, offering a mix of high-speed straights and technical corners that test both driver skill and vehicle performance.

Beyond the track, Campagnano di Roma offers a picturesque setting steeped in history and culture. The town boasts medieval architecture, charming piazzas, and notable landmarks such as the Chiesa del Gonfalone and the Fontana dei Delfini.

Visitors can explore the nearby Sanctuary of the Madonna del Sorbo, nestled in a wooded area ideal for nature walks. The region also features archaeological sites, including remnants of Roman roads and ancient settlements, providing a glimpse into Italy’s rich past.

For ticket information, please visit vallelunga.it.

● Sponsor Intel: Recently added to the Jones Group portfolio, Port City Racecars is a premier racecar facility, specializing in manufacturing championship-winning chassis, providing top-tier technical support and supplying premium race parts to competitors across North America.

● Follow on Social Media: For more on Liam Hezemans, please follow him on Instagram (@liamhezemans) and TikTok (@liamhezemans50).

For more on Gil Linster, please like him on Facebook (GilLinsterOfficial), and follow him on Instagram

(@gillinster), X | Twitter (@gillinster) and YouTube (@gillinster472).

For more on Rette Jones Racing Euro, please visit RetteJonesRacing.com, like them on Facebook (Rette Jones Racing), or follow them on Instagram (@RetteJones30) and X | Twitter (@RetteJones30).

Gil Linster Quoteboard:

On Autodromo di Vallelunga: “I’m really looking forward to getting back behind the wheel this weekend at Vallelunga.

“It’s a technical and demanding track, but one that really rewards precision and patience. Racing just outside Rome, with all the history and energy around us, adds an extra layer of excitement. The team’s been working hard, and I think we’ve got a great opportunity to keep building on the momentum we started in Valencia.”

On Circuit Ricardo Tormo Performance: “Valencia was a great way to kick off the season,” said Gil Linster. “To come away with two solid finishes in such a competitive field really boosted my confidence and showed what this team is capable of.

“We learned a lot that weekend—about the car, the competition, and how we work together—and I’m excited to carry that momentum into Vallelunga.”

On Rette Jones Racing Partnership: “I’m really proud to continue my journey in the NASCAR Euro Series with Rette Jones Racing. This opportunity means a lot, especially having the support of an American team with such a strong reputation.

“Racing at Daytona last year was a massive moment for me in my Motorsports career, and I’m looking forward to building on the relationships I formed in the United States as I continue to grow as a driver.

“I’m confident this partnership will help me take another step forward in my career.”

On Goals for the 2025 NASCAR Euro Series Season: “This year, the goal is clear: I want to fight for wins every weekend and be in the hunt for the championship.

“Consistency will be key, and I know we have the right people around us to make that happen. I’ve never been more focused or more motivated to deliver.”

Liam Hezemans Quoteboard:

On Autodromo di Vallelunga: “I’m really looking forward to getting back to Vallelunga. It’s a track I’ve raced before and really enjoy—it’s fast, technical, and demands a lot from both the car and the driver.

“Having that past experience gives me a bit more confidence heading into the weekend, and I’m excited to see how we stack up with the improvements we’ve made since Valencia.”

On Circuit Ricardo Tormo Performance: “Valencia was a great way to kick off the season. We had a strong pace all weekend and came away with two solid top-six finishes, which is exactly the kind of consistency we were aiming for.

“It gave us a solid foundation to build on, and now we’re focused on taking that next step forward at Vallelunga.”

On Rette Jones Racing Partnership: “I’m really excited to join Rette Jones Racing for the 2025 season. Having the opportunity to represent an American team in the NASCAR Euro Series is a big step for me, and I’m proud to be part of this new chapter.

On Goals for the 2025 NASCAR Euro Series Season: “Heading into 2025, the goal is to take everything we’ve learned over the past seasons and turn it into consistent results. I want to be fighting at the front every weekend and ultimately challenge for the championship.

“With the experience I’ve gained and the support of Rette Jones Racing and Hendriks Motorsport, I feel more prepared than ever.

“It’s all about staying focused, maximizing every race, and putting ourselves in a position to win.”

Race Information:

Full weekend coverage of the NASCAR Euro Series is available on the series’ YouTube page.

RJR PR