Helio Castroneves, a celebrated figure in motorsport and a four-time winner of the Indianapolis 500, is set to make waves in the Brazilian Stock Car Pro Series starting in 2025. With the season opener at the iconic Interlagos circuit just around the corner, it has been officially confirmed that Castroneves will be part of the racing grid. This move marks a significant return for the legendary driver to his home country’s racing scene, where he will balance his commitments in Brazil with his ongoing quest for a fifth Indy 500 title in the United States.
Castroneves will be behind the wheel of the Chevrolet Tracker, representing RTR Sport, a new team making its debut in the Stock Car Pro Series. This upcoming season is particularly noteworthy as it introduces SUVs into the championship, replacing the traditional sedans. Alongside the Chevrolet Tracker, the field will also feature competitors driving the Toyota Corolla Cross and Mitsubishi’s Eclipse Cross, which is making a return to the series.
Expressing his excitement about joining the Brazilian Stock Car series, Castroneves remarked on the invitation he received from Lincoln Oliveira, the CEO of Brazilian Stock Car and father of Formula 1 driver Gabriel Bortoleto. “I am thrilled about this opportunity and did not hesitate to accept, as I have always been a huge fan of the series, especially now with the exciting challenge of the new SUV concept,” he stated.
Maique Papareli, the owner of RTR Sport, shared in the enthusiasm, declaring, “It is a great honor to announce Helio Castroneves as our driver for the 2025 Stock Car season. Having someone of Helio’s caliber on our team is a dream come true and a significant milestone for our organization. We are confident that his vast experience and commitment will lead to outstanding results and help elevate our team’s profile in Brazilian motorsport.”
Castroneves has a rich history in Brazilian racing, with his last full season in the country dating back to 1994, where he finished as the runner-up in the national Formula 3 championship. After that, he transitioned to an illustrious international career that took him first to Europe and then to the United States, where he has amassed an impressive record, including four Indy 500 victories, three Daytona 24 Hours wins, and the IMSA championship title in 2020.
Although his full-time return to the Stock Car series in 2025 will be a fresh chapter, it is not his first experience in this competitive arena. Castroneves made his debut in the Brazilian Stock Car series in 2012, participating in the prestigious Interlagos Million Race, where he finished in 14th place. He was also slated to compete in the 2013 round in his hometown of Ribeirão Preto, but unfortunately, a crash during practice forced him to withdraw from the event.
As he prepares for the upcoming season, Castroneves will join a roster of celebrated Brazilian motorsport figures. The 2025 Stock Car Pro Series grid includes renowned talents such as two-time champion Rubens Barrichello, 2024’s runner-up Felipe Massa, the inaugural Formula E champion Nelson Piquet Jr., and former Formula 1 driver Ricardo Zonta. Additionally, the grid will feature experienced competitors like three-time champions Daniel Serra and Gabriel Casagrande, making for an exciting and competitive season.
The 2025 Stock Car Pro Series promises to be a thrilling spectacle, not just for fans in Brazil but also for motorsport enthusiasts around the world. The introduction of SUVs into the championship adds a new dynamic to the competition, and with Castroneves taking the wheel, the anticipation is palpable. His presence alone is expected to draw significant attention to the series, further showcasing the depth of talent in Brazilian motorsport.
The structure of the teams and cars participating in the 2025 season highlights the diverse array of competitors. For example, the Chiarelli team will field a Tracker with drivers Caca Bueno and Lucas Kohl, while Crown Racing will feature the Corolla Cross driven by Julio Campos and Arthur Leist. Other noteworthy teams include TMG, which will also compete with the Tracker and host drivers like Rafael Suzuki and Felipe Massa, and Eurofarma-RC, which has selected the Eclipse Cross for its drivers Gaetano di Mauro and Felipe Fraga.
This new season not only signifies a pivotal moment in Castroneves’ career but also reflects the evolving landscape of Brazilian motorsport. The shift to SUV racing represents a broader trend in motorsports, where manufacturers and teams are continually seeking innovative ways to engage fans and enhance the racing experience. The excitement surrounding this transition is palpable, as fans look forward to witnessing the challenges and triumphs that will unfold on the track.
As Helio Castroneves gears up for his return to racing in Brazil, he brings with him a wealth of experience and an unmatched passion for the sport. His commitment to excellence and his love for racing will undoubtedly make the 2025 Stock Car Pro Series a memorable chapter in his storied career. With an impressive lineup of competitors and the excitement of a new racing format, the upcoming season is set to captivate audiences and elevate the profile of Brazilian motorsport on an international stage.
In conclusion, the 2025 Brazilian Stock Car Pro Series is poised to be an exhilarating season, with Helio Castroneves leading the charge for RTR Sport. As the series transforms with the introduction of SUVs, the anticipation for what lies ahead is growing. The combination of seasoned veterans and emerging talents will create a thrilling atmosphere, ensuring that fans are treated to a showcase of skill, strategy, and speed. The racing world will be watching closely as this legendary driver embarks on a new adventure in his home country, adding yet another exciting chapter to his illustrious career.
