Kevin Harvick Steps Out of Retirement as He Returns to Iconic Race in 2025

Kevin Harvick is coming out of retirement to take part in a CARS Tour West event. Set to take place at the Kern Raceway — a track renamed in his honor — this event on January 25th will see Harvick hitting the asphalt in a Super Late Model race.

His return, after stepping down from full-time NASCAR competition, aims to boost West Coast racing, bringing attention to a part of the country once known for its strong racing heritage.

The Kern Raceway event is the season opener for the CARS Tour West. This year, the series will showcase divisions like Super Late Models and Limited Pro Late Models, alongside long-time favorites such as Pro Late Models and Legend Cars. The addition of these divisions is part of a broader strategy to invigorate grassroots racing in the region, making racing more accessible and maintaining a progression path for young aspiring drivers.

Post-retirement, Harvick has stayed deeply involved in racing. As a co-owner of the CARS Tour West, he aims to add value and attract attention to the sport. Additionally, Harvick holds a broadcasting position with FOX Sports covering the Cup Series, allowing him to maintain a connection with racing without being tied down to a full-time driving schedule.

Harvick is also involved with his son’s development as a young driver. His son, Keelan Harvick, has shown strong potential, and Kevin plans to join him at racing events this year.

The CARS Tour West series now offers a unified rule package in cooperation with the United Late Model Rules Alliance. Such structuring aims to ensure smooth transitions for drivers moving up different levels, from entry-level Legend Cars to competitive Super Late Models.

Bakersfield, Harvick’s hometown, has welcomed this news eagerly. Kern Raceway, a top motorsports location in the area, is known for supporting grassroots racing and providing family-friendly entertainment. Its upcoming calendar is filled with different events, featuring not only the NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series but also other racing series that promise to draw plenty of eyes.

Harvick’s name not only adds credibility to the location, but also promises an exciting event for racing enthusiasts in and around California.

Beyond its entertainment value, Harvick’s participation brings attention to a local racing scene that has been in need of revival and support. California has long been a breeding ground for racing talent. Harvick aims to reignite interest and nurture this talent pipeline by supporting these local racing events.

Though Harvick’s schedule is busy with his large number of commitments, he plans to find time to race when possible. The well-planned schedule of the CARS Tour West provides him with the flexibility needed to line up his racing with his broadcasting. This flexibility not only allows Harvick to remain active behind the wheel, but also boosts the CARS Tour West events.

Returning to Kern Raceway, the track, now bearing his name, represents both a personal and professional milestone for the driver. It’s a pledge, a promise to stay connected with the sport and contribute to building a supportive community around racing. For Harvick, it’s a homecoming event filled with nostalgia.