NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2027 Nominees Announced

Diverse group of drivers, engineers, and visionaries up for induction

Apr. 12, 2026 at 7:45pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting various fragmented NASCAR racing scenes, cars, and drivers, with vibrant colors and sharp, overlapping planes.The NASCAR Hall of Fame's diverse Class of 2027 nominees reflect the sport's rich history and evolution, from on-track champions to behind-the-scenes innovators.Riverside Today

The NASCAR Hall of Fame has revealed the nominees for its Class of 2027, showcasing a blend of on-track champions, behind-the-scenes innovators, and off-track trailblazers who have shaped the sport over the decades. The ballot features a mix of modern-era legends, pioneering mechanics, and marketing visionaries, highlighting NASCAR's rich history and evolution.

Why it matters

The NASCAR Hall of Fame induction is one of the highest honors in motorsports, recognizing the individuals who have made significant contributions to the sport's success and growth. This year's diverse slate of nominees reflects the multifaceted nature of NASCAR, from the drivers who captivate fans to the unsung heroes who power the teams.

The details

The Modern Era ballot includes notable names like Kevin Harvick, a former Cup Series champion and current FOX Sports analyst, and Ray Elder, a six-time champion in the former Winston West Series who dominated on the West Coast racing scene. The Pioneer Era celebrates the impact of influential mechanics and crew chiefs like Ray Fox and Herb Nab, while the Landmark Award nominees honor off-track visionaries such as T. Wayne Robertson and Lesa France Kennedy for their marketing and executive leadership roles.

  • The NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2027 nominees were announced on April 12, 2026.

The players

Kevin Harvick

A former NASCAR Cup Series champion (2014) and current FOX Sports analyst, known for his on-track success and impact on the sport's culture.

Ray Elder

A six-time champion in the former Winston West Series, who dominated West Coast racing and showcased the sport's diverse regional formats.

Ernie Elliott

An engine builder who powered his family team to the 1988 NASCAR championship, representing the unsung heroes behind the scenes.

Ray Fox

An influential NASCAR car owner and mechanic, who helped shape the sport's early years.

Herb Nab

A championship-winning crew chief, who worked with NASCAR legend Cale Yarborough, showcasing the evolving role of crew chiefs over the decades.

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What’s next

The NASCAR Hall of Fame will now open voting for the Class of 2027, with the induction ceremony scheduled for early 2027.

The takeaway

The diverse slate of NASCAR Hall of Fame nominees for the Class of 2027 highlights the sport's rich history, from on-track champions to behind-the-scenes innovators and visionaries. This balance between tradition and evolution is a testament to NASCAR's enduring appeal and its ability to adapt to the changing landscape of motorsports.