Richard Petty Motorsports, which was established by “The King” himself in the late 1990s, had been a mainstay in the NASCAR Cup Series for many years. The team was home to some of the most memorable moments in NASCAR history, with Petty himself leading the charge as one of the most successful drivers of all time. However, in 2021, RPM was shut down as part of a restructuring and a shift in the ownership dynamics, which left fans and industry insiders wondering if the team would ever return to the track.

Now, after a few years of uncertainty, Richard Petty has announced that Richard Petty Motorsports will be making a triumphant return in 2025, marking a new chapter in both the history of the team and the legacy of Petty’s impact on the sport. Petty, whose career includes seven NASCAR Cup Series championships and 200 race wins, emphasized that the reopening of the team is a tribute to both the past and the future of NASCAR.

In a statement, Richard Petty said, “This team has always been more than just a racing operation to me—it’s about preserving the legacy of NASCAR and bringing new talent and opportunities to the forefront. Reopening Richard Petty Motorsports is about ensuring that the sport I love continues to grow, and I believe this is the perfect time to get back in the game.”

The reopening of RPM comes with plans to field competitive cars in the NASCAR Cup Series and provide a platform for young, up-and-coming drivers to showcase their skills. Petty stated that the team’s mission would focus on blending tradition with innovation, ensuring that the team stays competitive while respecting the history of NASCAR’s golden age. It was also revealed that the team would be seeking new partnerships with key sponsors and manufacturers, signaling a fresh approach to the team’s future success.

Many speculate that the return of RPM could have a significant impact on NASCAR as a whole, as Richard Petty’s influence is unmatched in the sport. The team’s reopening could also pave the way for a new generation of drivers, with Petty’s guidance and mentorship offering invaluable support for the next wave of NASCAR stars.

As the 2025 season draws closer, the NASCAR community eagerly anticipates the return of Richard Petty Motorsports, a team that holds a special place in the hearts of fans and continues to be a symbol of excellence in stock car racing. With Petty at the helm, the future of RPM looks brighter than ever, promising to honor the past while embracing the new era of NASCAR.