Exciting NASCAR Cup Series Qualifying Order at Charlotte Motor Speedway

The NASCAR Cup Series is preparing for one of its biggest events of the year at Charlotte Motor Speedway. The Coca-Cola 600, held on May 25, promises high energy and tight competition as drivers compete in the longest race on the NASCAR calendar.

This race is not only a test of speed but also of endurance, with 400 laps totaling 600 miles.

The action begins at 6:00 p.m. ET, marking the first time the main event will air on Prime Video, with radio coverage from PRN Radio and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.

Cup Series qualifying is set for Saturday at 2:40 p.m. ET and will also be broadcast on Prime Video. Qualifying for the Coca-Cola 600 will use a metric system that combines the previous race finish by owner (weighted at 70%) and the team’s current owner points standings (weighted at 30%).

This system sets the stage for the starting order and brings both recent performance and consistency into play. Among the entrants, Connor Zilisch (car 87) leads the metric order with a score of 42.81, followed by Josh Bilicki (car 66) at 42.21 and Derek Kraus (car 44) at 41.91.

Veterans like Jimmie Johnson (car 84) continue to make appearances, joining a mix of established names and series rookies. The weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway is packed with racing and fan-focused activities. For more details on the track’s history, visit the Charlotte Motor Speedway official page.

The BetMGM 300 for the Xfinity Series takes place Saturday at 4:30 p.m. ET. Before that, on Friday night, the North Carolina Education Lottery 200 in the Craftsman Truck Series offers more excitement.

Each of these events features its own lineup, with practice and qualifying sessions scheduled leading up to their main events. Fans can catch a variety of races and entertainment throughout the holiday weekend.

The entry list reflects a blend of experienced drivers and fresh faces. Notable names such as Brad Keselowski (car 6), Denny Hamlin (car 11), and William Byron (car 24) are included, each with high expectations based on their recent performances and points positions. For a detailed overview, see the 2025 NASCAR entry list.

Several rookies like Riley Herbst and Shane van Gisbergen are looking to make their mark. The metric system highlights the up-to-date standings for each car, showing how last race performance impacts the weekend’s starting grid. For more on NASCAR’s qualifying rules, check out the NASCAR official rules portal.

Practice will be crucial, as the Coca-Cola 600 tests not only drivers but also their teams and equipment. With only one lap and one round in Saturday’s qualifying session, there is little room for error.

Teams will focus on track conditions and tire management, especially with the length and late-afternoon start of Sunday’s main race. Small mistakes in qualifying can have big consequences for starting positions in such a long and strategic event.

Charlotte Motor Speedway is a historic venue, known for providing opportunities for both first-time winners and established champions. The qualifying order gives fans a preview of which drivers might have an edge before the green flag drops. Learn more about the track’s significance from Motorsport Hall of Fame.

With the points battle heating up, every finish is crucial for those seeking a spot in the playoffs. The event is also significant as it draws attention from across the motorsports world due to its tradition and the Memorial Day weekend audience.

As the NASCAR Cup Series gears up for the Coca-Cola 600, attention will turn to qualifying results and how drivers stack up on race day. With every team pushing for a strong showing at Charlotte, the stage is set for another thrilling edition of NASCAR’s longest race. For more on recent events influencing the season, check out the NASCAR entry list for Charlotte.

John Martinez

John Martinez delivers real-time NASCAR Cup Series and Truck Series news, from live race updates to pit-lane strategy analysis. A graduate of the University of Northwestern Ohio’s Motorsports Technology program, he breaks down rule changes, driver tactics, and championship points with crystal-clear reporting.