NASCAR has been home to some of the most fearless, fiery, and flat-out fast drivers the world has ever seen. From the pioneers who helped build the sport to the modern legends who broke every record, greatness has worn many helmets over the years.
This list dives into the 20 best NASCAR drivers ever to hit the track. Whether they dominated superspeedways, short tracks, or everything in between, these names left tire marks on the history of stock car racing.
20. Greg Biffle
The Biff never got as much attention as some of his peers, but his versatility was elite. He found success in all three of NASCAR’s top series and was a quiet force for over a decade.
19. Tim Flock
One of NASCAR’s early stars, Flock racked up wins with a mix of flair and finesse. And yes, he once had a monkey co-driver named Jocko Flocko—how can you not include him?
18. Denny Hamlin
Still chasing that elusive Cup title, but his resume is stacked regardless. Clutch at Daytona, dominant on short tracks, and a constant playoff presence.
17. Kyle Larson
In terms of raw talent, Larson might be the most naturally gifted driver of his era. He’s a threat every week, no matter the track or series.
16. Mark Martin
Martin never won a Cup championship, but he was always in the thick of the fight. Clean, consistent, and one of the most respected drivers in the garage.
15. Joey Logano
Logano became a star early and has only continued to improve with age. With multiple titles and a knack for rising in big moments, he’s already built a legacy.
14. Fireball Roberts
Before safety innovations were a thing, Fireball was one of the fastest men alive. His style was all gas, no brakes—literally and metaphorically.
13. Buck Baker
The man won back-to-back championships in the 1950s and was one of NASCAR’s first true stars. He laid the groundwork for generations of racers.
12. Junior Johnson
He was a moonshine runner turned racing icon, which might be the most NASCAR thing ever. Johnson won as both a driver and a legendary team owner.
11. Tony Stewart
Smoke brought fire to every track he touched. Fierce, fearless, and versatile enough to win championships in both IndyCar and NASCAR.
10. Ned Jarrett
Known as “Gentleman Ned,” he quietly racked up wins and two championships with a smooth, innovative driving style. His legacy also lived on through his son, Dale.
9. Kyle Busch
Say what you want about his attitude, but his stats do the talking. Busch is a winning machine across all three national series and still going strong.
8. Bobby Allison
Bobby could wheel just about anything and was always a threat. His battles with Petty and Waltrip defined a golden era of NASCAR.
7. Cale Yarborough
One of the sport’s first three-time champs, Yarborough drove with a chip on his shoulder and nerves of steel. That famous fight at Daytona? Iconic.
6. Darrell Waltrip
DW was as good with a microphone as he was behind the wheel. He piled up wins in the 80s with Hendrick and brought charisma to every race.
5. Jeff Gordon
Gordon changed the game in the 90s with his smooth driving and marketability. Four championships and 93 wins speak for themselves.
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4. Jimmie Johnson
Seven titles, all in the modern era, against stacked competition. Johnson was calm, methodical, and ridiculously clutch when it counted.
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3. Dale Earnhardt
The Intimidator was larger than life, both on and off the track. Seven championships, a relentless driving style, and a legacy that still looms large.
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2. David Pearson
Pearson didn’t run every race—but when he did, he usually won. The Silver Fox’s win-to-start ratio might be the most underrated stat in NASCAR history.
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1. Richard Petty
The King sits on top for a reason: 200 wins, seven championships, and an iconic presence that transcended the sport. When people think NASCAR, they think Petty.
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