The 2025 NASCAR season is already sparking controversy, and Dale Earnhardt Jr. isn’t holding back on his thoughts about one of the biggest rule changes—the Open Exemption Provisional (OEP).
This new policy, which guarantees elite drivers from other racing series a starting spot in select races, has its first high-profile case with Trackhouse Racing using it to lock in four-time Indy 500 winner Helio Castroneves for the Daytona 500.
While many see the rule as a way to bring global racing stars into NASCAR, Earnhardt Jr. believes it creates serious concerns—especially for teams who must earn their way into the race through traditional qualifying.
Trackhouse’s OEP Move for Castroneves “Raises a Lot of Questions”
Speaking on his podcast, Earnhardt Jr. admitted that Trackhouse had clearly mapped out this move well in advance—but that doesn’t mean it’s without controversy.
“This is something that they had planned out. Trackhouse was like, ‘We’re going to put this deal together, we’re requesting this exemption. We’re going to spend the next several months preparing a car and getting ready.’ So, it does raise a lot of questions.”
One of his biggest surprises? Trackhouse is already a competitive team—one that probably could have qualified for the Daytona 500 without needing an exemption.
“I am a bit surprised though because I think Trackhouse is competitive enough to qualify in,” Earnhardt Jr. explained.
Additionally, using the OEP slot comes with a financial downside—the team forfeits its share of the prize pool for finishing last.
“And it’s a lot of money to finish last. If you’re just looking at, ‘Hey man, what’s it cost to start the race?’ It’s a lot of money. So, to forgo that possibility is pretty significant for a team.”
Will Open Teams Be Furious About OEP Entries?
Earnhardt Jr. believes the biggest issue with the Open Exemption Provisional rule will come if the number of open teams attempting to qualify increases.
Imagine 15+ cars fighting for a handful of open spots at Daytona—while one driver automatically gets a free pass because of the OEP rule.
“Wow, there’s all these guys that are going to show up and try to make this race, but there’s this one that’s also trying to make the race that’s got a free pass.”
He warns that if the number of open cars doubles in 2026, the resentment will only grow.
“Then it becomes a little more hard to accept or swallow. Especially if you’re one of the open teams.”
Will NASCAR’s New Rule Backfire?
While NASCAR aims to attract major international talent, Earnhardt Jr. is voicing concerns shared by many within the garage.
💬 Is it fair to let certain drivers skip the qualifying process?
💬 Should elite drivers like Castroneves have to earn their spot like everyone else?
💬 Will open teams push back against this rule in the future?
With the Daytona 500 just weeks away, all eyes will be on how the OEP rule impacts the Great American Race—and whether this controversy is just getting started.
