The 2025 NASCAR season is already shaping up to be a year of surprises, and one name making headlines is Derrike Cope, the veteran driver who has competed across five decades of NASCAR history. While Cope is unlikely to return as a driver, recent rumors suggest his involvement in the sport could take a new direction. Could the 66-year-old icon be making a splash as a team owner?
A Legacy That Spans Generations
Derrike Cope is no stranger to NASCAR fans. With a career that started in 1982 at Riverside and included a legendary Daytona 500 victory in 1990, Cope’s name has been etched into the sport’s history. His career has seen highs and lows, with his last Cup Series race being the 2021 Daytona 500, where he finished 40th. While many assumed this was his farewell, whispers of a new project involving Cope Family Racing LLC have reignited interest in his future within NASCAR.
The Rumored Return: Cope Family Racing LLC
Speculation about Cope’s next chapter began when nascarrumornostalgia, a popular social media account, posted about the formation of Cope Family Racing LLC. According to the post, the team is reportedly planning a part-time Xfinity Series schedule in 2025, with Nick Tucker as the potential driver. Tucker, a 39-year-old racer with limited NASCAR experience, last competed in 2009 but has a history of working with Cope during the 2008 Camping World Truck Series.
The team is rumored to run Chevrolet cars and focus on road courses and superspeedways, capitalizing on Tucker’s recent experience in the Michelin Pilot Challenge. However, the plan is still in its early stages, with no official confirmation from Cope or Tucker.
Fan Reactions: Excitement and Skepticism
The news has sparked a flurry of reactions from NASCAR fans, with opinions ranging from excitement to cautious skepticism. Some fans are thrilled at the idea of a new team entering the Xfinity Series, especially with Cope’s storied legacy behind it. One fan commented, “Always nice to see a new team start up, even if it’s part-time. Hopefully, they can bring something fresh to the grid.”
Others expressed doubts about Nick Tucker’s readiness for such a role, given his limited NASCAR experience. One user pointed out, “Nick Tucker hasn’t run in NASCAR or ARCA in over a decade. It’ll be interesting to see how he adapts to this opportunity.”
There’s also concern about Cope himself taking the wheel again, with fans referencing his challenging performance at the 2021 Daytona 500. “Hopefully, he sticks to ownership. His last starts showed it might be time to leave driving to the younger guys,” remarked another commenter.
Why This Could Be a Game-Changer
If the rumors are true, Cope Family Racing LLC could bring fresh energy to the Xfinity Series. While Cope’s focus on a part-time schedule might seem modest, it opens the door for talented but overlooked drivers like Nick Tucker to prove themselves on a national stage. Tucker, who has shown versatility across various racing disciplines, could use this opportunity to make a name for himself and potentially secure a full-time NASCAR role in the future.
For Cope, the move also represents a chance to stay connected to the sport he loves while building a legacy beyond his driving career. His vast experience and passion for NASCAR could translate into a team that prioritizes driver development and innovative strategies.
Challenges Ahead
However, starting a new team in NASCAR is no small feat. The Xfinity Series is highly competitive, and part-time teams often struggle to secure sponsorship and funding. Additionally, Tucker’s inexperience in the series could be a hurdle, especially when competing against seasoned drivers. But as one fan optimistically noted, “They say part-time now, but who knows? This could be the start of something much bigger.”
What’s Next for Derrike Cope?
While nothing is confirmed, the rumors surrounding Derrike Cope and Cope Family Racing LLC have already generated buzz for the 2025 NASCAR season. Whether as a team owner or in another capacity, Cope’s involvement will undoubtedly bring attention to the Xfinity Series and offer fans a nostalgic connection to one of NASCAR’s enduring figures.
