Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise could be preparing for one of his most unusual challenges yet. The actor has reportedly expressed interest in competing in an actual ARCA Menards Series race as he prepares for the highly anticipated sequel to Days of Thunder.
NASCAR CEO Steve O’Donnell revealed the surprising news during an appearance at Front Office Sports’ Tuned In event. According to O’Donnell, Cruise personally expressed interest in getting behind the wheel and competing in the developmental stock car series.
O’Donnell admitted he was shocked by the request, adding that he was unsure whether it would actually happen. However, Cruise’s interest shows just how seriously he is taking the upcoming movie.
Cruise Wants Authentic Racing Experience
Cruise is known for performing many of his own stunts, particularly in the Mission: Impossible franchise. Now, he appears interested in taking that commitment to another level by experiencing real stock car racing.
The actor is preparing to reprise his role as Cole Trickle in Days of Thunder 2, the upcoming sequel to the 1990 NASCAR racing film. The sequel is currently planned for release in 2028.
The original movie helped introduce NASCAR to a broader audience, and the new project aims to showcase how much the sport has changed over the past three decades.
Cruise previously tested a NASCAR Busch Series car at Daytona International Speedway in 1987 while preparing for the original film. Reports from that test indicated he reached nearly 180 mph.
Actually competing in an ARCA race, however, would be a significant step beyond a private test session.
Could Tom Cruise Actually Race?
For now, there is no confirmed race date or official announcement that Cruise will compete in ARCA.
NASCAR would need to determine whether the actor meets the requirements to participate safely in an actual event. ARCA is a national touring series that serves as an important development level within stock car racing.
At 64, Cruise would also become one of the more recognizable names to enter the series if the opportunity moves forward.
NASCAR is reportedly building more than 80 race cars for the sequel, highlighting the scale of the production and the organization’s involvement.
A Major Opportunity for NASCAR
Cruise’s interest could generate enormous attention for ARCA and NASCAR as a whole.
The sequel has the potential to introduce stock car racing to movie fans who may not regularly watch the sport. If Cruise actually competes in an ARCA event, the attention surrounding that race could be extraordinary.
For now, fans will have to wait to see whether the Hollywood star gets his wish.
One thing is clear: Cruise wants Days of Thunder 2 to deliver an authentic look at modern NASCAR, and he appears willing to go beyond the movie set to make it happen.