Drivers from other series who tested NASCAR in 2023

The NASCAR Cup Series has always been a melting pot where talents from various series and disciplines meet and compete. This rich tradition continued in 2023, a year distinguished by notably diverse and global participation. Beyond the borders of stock car racing, drivers with backgrounds in F1, IndyCar, Supercars, and other world-renowned competitions made their debut or returned to NASCAR, showcasing the growing attraction and relevance of this series.

This phenomenon was partly thanks to the introduction of the Next Gen car in NASCAR. Designed to level the playing field and make races more competitive and exciting, this vehicle has been a key factor in attracting a wide range of international talents. With a total of drivers from different nationalities and backgrounds in the 2023 season, NASCAR not only celebrated diversity but also highlighted technological evolution and adaptability as central elements of its global appeal. The introduction of the Next Gen car marked a new chapter in NASCAR's history, opening doors to an era of greater inclusion and international competition.

Travis Pastrana

The renowned extreme sports athlete, Travis Pastrana, fulfilled a dream by participating in the Daytona 500, supported by 23XI Racing. Despite his limited experience in NASCAR, Pastrana surprised everyone by qualifying and competing with great skill, finishing in an impressive 11th position. His performance was so thrilling that Pastrana himself described it as one of the most exciting experiences of his life.

Conor Daly

Conor Daly, with a track record of over 100 races in IndyCar, made his debut in the Daytona 500, overcoming significant obstacles with his vehicle. Despite issues in the qualifying race, Daly secured a spot in the main race, showcasing his tenacity and adaptability by finishing in 29th place.

Kimi Raikkonen and Jenson Button

Two Formula 1 world champions, Kimi Raikkonen and Jenson Button, made their debut in the NASCAR Cup Series. Raikkonen participated in the Cup race at the Circuit of the Americas, a circuit that brings back memories of his last F1 victory. Button, on the other hand, participated as preparation for his Le Mans 24 appearance with the Garage 56 NASCAR team, finishing his race in a respectable 18th position.

Mike Rockenfeller and Kamui Kobayashi

Mike Rockenfeller and Kamui Kobayashi, both Le Mans winners, accepted the challenge of NASCAR. Rockenfeller, part of the Garage 56 NASCAR team, showcased his skills on the track with a best result at Watkins Glen. Kobayashi, joining 23XI Racing, made history as the first Japanese driver to compete in the Cup Series in two decades, although he faced challenges during the race.

Shane van Gisbergen

New Zealander Shane van Gisbergen became the standout story of the season by winning a Cup race in his debut, becoming the first driver of his nationality to achieve victory in the NASCAR Cup Series. This feat marked a significant shift in his career, announcing his intention to leave Supercars to pursue a full-time NASCAR career with Trackhouse Racing.