Twenty-five years ago, Dale Earnhardt and his son, Dale Jr., captivated NASCAR fans with an unforgettable father-son duel at Twin Ring Motegi. Now, in 2025, Kevin Harvick and his 12-year-old prodigy, Keelan Harvick, are set to rewrite that legacy. But with one crucial twist—this time, Dad isn’t just watching from the sidelines. He’s back behind the wheel, ready to take on his son.
Kevin Harvick, a future NASCAR Hall of Famer and one of the sport’s most accomplished drivers, may have hung up his Cup Series fire suit in 2023, but he’s far from done racing. In fact, he’s gearing up for a showdown against his own son in the CARS Tour West Pro Late Model series at Kern Raceway in May. And while it’s all in good fun, Harvick has one clear message for his young competitor:
“You better not wreck me. Because if you wreck me, I’m paying for both cars… and we’re gonna have a big problem.”
But will Keelan listen? Or is the next generation of Harvick about to show his legendary father that his reign is over?
Keelan Harvick: The Making of a Future NASCAR Champion?
It’s easy to dismiss Keelan Harvick as just another young racer riding his father’s coattails—until you look at the numbers.
- In 2024, Keelan tore through the competition, securing 27 wins in just 49 races.
- He made his Late Model debut at Florence Motor Speedway, finishing a respectable 8th before quickly rising to dominance.
- At the Icebreaker Limited Late Model event, he didn’t just win—he controlled the entire race from start to finish.
- He crossed the finish line with a staggering four-second lead over second place.
That level of dominance doesn’t happen by accident. It’s clear that Keelan has inherited his father’s aggressive, take-no-prisoners style—and Kevin Harvick knows it.
That’s why, even as he prepares to race his son, he’s also working behind the scenes to build Keelan’s future.
The Harvick Legacy: A Three-Generation NASCAR Dynasty
Kevin Harvick isn’t just putting his son in fast cars—he’s building an entire race program around him.
With backing from Hunt Brothers Pizza and other major sponsors, Kevin has made sure that Keelan is set up with the best possible equipment and resources. But this isn’t just about business—it’s about family.
Keelan’s car number, No. 62, isn’t a random choice. It’s a tribute to his grandfather, John Paul Linville, keeping the Harvick racing bloodline alive. Meanwhile, Kevin will run his iconic No. 29, the same number that defined his legendary NASCAR career.
This isn’t just a race—it’s history in the making.
Will Keelan Wreck His Dad? Kevin’s Not Taking Any Chances
Let’s get one thing straight—Keelan Harvick is still a 12-year-old racer, and young drivers make mistakes. And when you’re as competitive as Keelan, sometimes those mistakes come with consequences.
Kevin Harvick, ever the strategist, isn’t blind to the risk. That’s why he’s laid down a stern warning ahead of their upcoming battle:
“If you wreck me, you better make sure it matters.”
And honestly? It might.
Keelan has already proven he’s not afraid to push the limits. During his recent Florence victory, he didn’t just win—he dominated, pulling away from the field like a seasoned pro. His aggressive style mirrors that of his father, who made a career out of ruthless, take-no-prisoners racing.
So the real question is—when it comes down to the final laps, will Keelan back off, or will he do whatever it takes to beat his dad?
A Father-Son Battle for the Ages
One thing’s for sure—this father-son rivalry is about to deliver some must-watch racing.
- Kevin Harvick is still a fierce competitor—but can he keep up with the hungry, fearless next generation?
- Keelan Harvick has already proven he’s a winner—but is he ready to take down the man who taught him everything?
- Will this race be a heartwarming family moment—or an all-out war on the track?
No matter how it plays out, one thing is certain: NASCAR fans are in for a treat.
Because when a Harvick gets behind the wheel, they don’t race for fun—they race to win.
The only question is—will Kevin Harvick’s legendary No. 29 stay on top, or will the next generation steal the spotlight?