On Thursday, the NASCAR community woke up to surprising news: retired Cup Series race winner Casey Mears is making a comeback. The 47-year-old, who last competed in the 2019 Daytona 500, is set to return to the track for the Martinsville Cup race on March 30, 2025.
Casey Mears Welcomed by Mixed Fan Reactions
Mears’ return wasn’t without hurdles. Given his six-year absence, NASCAR initially presented a major obstacle to his comeback. Fortunately, his continued involvement in off-road racing helped keep his skills sharp, ultimately earning him NASCAR’s approval. Now, reports confirm Mears will drive the Ford Mustang Dark Horse for Garage 66.
Yet, just as Mears’ comeback appeared to be falling into place, backlash emerged from fans of Mike Wallace, who criticized NASCAR’s decision. Their frustration stems from NASCAR’s controversial ruling ahead of the 2025 Daytona 500.
Before the season, Wallace sought a return to the Daytona 500 after a five-year break. NASCAR denied the then 65-year-old’s request, citing his prolonged absence from competition. The decision left the nine-time NASCAR series winner and his fans frustrated, with many taking to social media to voice their disappointment.
Some fans have accused NASCAR of bias, while others have raised concerns about Mears’ fitness after his extended time away from the sport. One fan questioned whether retired drivers should be allowed back into NASCAR, particularly in cases like Mears’. They wrote, “Sorry, but he shouldn’t be since he hasn’t raced in six years, let alone has never set foot in this car.”
Sorry but he shouldn’t be since he hasn’t raced in 6 years 🤷
Let alone has never set foot in this car
— Doug Ivey 2025-#JusticeForReztlaff #SayNoToRCR (@DGIveyNASCARFan) March 13, 2025
Another fan sided with NASCAR’s decision, pointing out the difference between Martinsville and the Daytona 500. “Bob, some people down here think that Martinsville and Daytona are the same judging by their reactions,” he wrote.
A similar opinion came from another user, who noted, “People getting all bent out of shape over nothing. Road course ringers have been doing it for 30+ years in Cup.”
However, Wallace’s supporters were less forgiving. One fan commented, “So pretty much if your name isn’t Mike Wallace, then you get approved.” Another user criticized NASCAR’s inconsistency, calling the decision a “joke.” “But Mike Wallace was not. Then, they let two drivers that have never raced in NASCAR into the races. What a joke” he wrote.
But Mike Wallace was not. Then they let two drivers that have never raced in NASCAR into the races. What a joke.
— flippityfloppityfloop4 (@flippityfl70604) March 13, 2025
Despite the controversy, Mears is set to make his NASCAR return, aiming for his 490th Cup Series start at Martinsville.