NASCAR is preparing to hold its first official podium celebration for the top three finishers after a Cup Series points race next weekend in Mexico, marking a significant departure from its long-standing tradition of spotlighting only the race winner. Michael McDowell, driver for Spire Motorsports, is believed to have played a key role in advocating for this change, proposing the idea to NASCAR officials years ago to bring more recognition to those finishing second and third.
Background of NASCAR’s Podium Practices and McDowell’s Role
Unlike Formula One and IndyCar, where podium ceremonies are standard, NASCAR has typically reserved public celebrations exclusively for victory lane. The only previous podium-style events occurred during the non-points exhibition Clash races at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum between 2022 and 2024, where drivers received medals similar to Olympic awards. However, these were special cases rather than regular practice.
McDowell explained his motivation for the podium proposal during a recent media session. He highlighted that coming from a diverse racing background—including karting, open wheel, and sports cars—he grew accustomed to celebrating the top three finishers as teams. This perspective influenced his pitch to NASCAR leadership.
Well, I love it. I know that that’s not traditionally what our sport has done, but I’m not traditionally from the sport,
McDowell said.
So, I know the value for teams and for partners and for everybody involved to be a part of a podium celebration.
He added,
It’s not victory lane, but it’s close to it. It’s fun to be able to do that and celebrate that as a team. I think that, for me, I’m used to that. That’s what I grew up (doing) — podiums all the way from karting, through open wheel cars and sports cars.
Efforts to Gain NASCAR’s Approval for Podium Recognition
McDowell revealed the idea was first suggested to Ben Kennedy, NASCAR Executive Vice President, about four or five years ago. While Kennedy was initially uncertain, McDowell believes the upcoming podium ceremonies in Mexico signals a shift toward embracing this tradition more broadly. He emphasized the importance of recognizing top finishes beyond just first place, which often go underappreciated in NASCAR.
I actually brought this up to Ben Kennedy (NASCAR Executive VP) like four or five years ago. And he was like, ‘I kind of like it, but I’m not sure if I love it.’ So maybe this is just the first step to adding a podium, just because of the value it adds,
he stated.
Fan Reactions and Support for Podium Celebration in NASCAR
Fans have welcomed the idea enthusiastically, expressing eagerness for more post-race festivities that highlight second and third place achievements. Many believe this could increase engagement and add excitement beyond simply the race winner.
Would personally like to see more podiums. More post race festivities, the better. Gives real meaning to 2nd and 3rd. Would actually mean a lot more with a full season points format but that’s another conversation,
one fan commented.
Yep, literally no downside to celebrating podiums. Allow people still to be psyched for their driver and raise engagement across the board,
another added.
I actually love the podium idea. NASCAR is the only major Motorsport that doesn’t have podiums (that I can recall). I don’t really see any negatives.
I love this. More fun, more celebrations sounds good to me.
Significance of Embracing Podium Celebrations Going Forward
While NASCAR has not yet recognized podium finishes as official statistics, the new celebration could shift how success is valued in the sport. Drivers such as Christopher Bell, Denny Hamlin, and Kyle Larson each hold six top-three finishes so far in 2025, indicating consistent high performance worthy of broader acknowledgment. Just as Formula One honors strong runner-up efforts, NASCAR may be evolving to offer similar respect and enthusiasm for podium placements.
This historic change in Mexico could pave the way for expanded podium celebrations at more NASCAR venues, potentially transforming post-race traditions and enhancing fan experiences through vibrant recognition of the top finishers.
