2025 NASCAR All-Star Heat Races: Keselowski and Bell Set the Pace at North Wilkesboro

The excitement was palpable at North Wilkesboro Speedway on Saturday, May 17, as the NASCAR Cup Series hosted two pivotal heat races to determine the starting lineup for the 2025 All-Star Race. Brad Keselowski and Christopher Bell emerged victorious in their respective heats, securing front-row positions for the main event.

Heat 1: Keselowski Holds Off Fierce Competition

Brad Keselowski, having clinched the pole position during Friday's qualifying, continued his dominant form by leading 74 of the 75 laps in the first heat race. Despite intense challenges from William Byron and Ross Chastain, especially in the final 38 laps, Keselowski maintained his lead. Chastain briefly overtook him on Lap 54, but Keselowski quickly reclaimed the top spot, showcasing his prowess on the track.

Top Finishers in Heat 1:

1. Brad Keselowski

2. Ross Chastain

3. William Byron

4. Ryan Blaney

5. Alex Bowman

*Note: The finishing order of Heat 1 determined the inside row for the All-Star Race lineup.*

Heat 2: Bell's Commanding Performance

In the second heat, Christopher Bell delivered a flawless performance, leading every green-flag lap. Even after a two-tire pit stop during a competition caution on Lap 31, Bell's No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota remained untouchable. He finished 2.085 seconds ahead of runner-up Joey Logano, solidifying his position on the front row for the All-Star Race.

Top Finishers in Heat 2:

1. Christopher Bell

2. Joey Logano

3. Chase Elliott

4. Kyle Busch

5. Chris Buescher

*Note: The finishing order of Heat 2 determined the outside row for the All-Star Race lineup.*

Additional Notes

Kyle Larson did not participate in the heat races due to Indianapolis 500 qualifying commitments but will compete in the All-Star Race.

The All-Star Race lineup includes the top finishers from both heats, two drivers advancing from the All-Star Open, and one fan-voted driver.

The 2025 NASCAR All-Star Race is set to commence at 8:00 PM ET on Sunday, May 18, and will be broadcast on FS1, MRN, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.