NASCAR Whelen Euro Series: President Jerome Galpin Discusses 2024 Success, 2025 Innovations, and Expanding Global Reach
Jerome Galpin, President and CEO of the NASCAR Whelen Euro Series and Team FJ, joined EPARTRADE’s 5th Annual Race Industry Week to share the remarkable achievements of the 2024 season and outline the series' ambitious plans for 2025 and beyond. The discussion highlighted the Euro Series’ growing popularity, upcoming technical innovations, and a roadmap for further expansion into new markets.
2024: A Season of Success and Growth Across Europe
Reflecting on the 2024 season, Galpin celebrated milestones that showcased the series’ competitive and international appeal. The NASCAR Whelen Euro Series brought thrilling racing action to seven countries, welcomed drivers from 25 different nationalities, and featured a playoff system that kept the championship undecided until the final lap.
“It was a fantastic season,” said Galpin. “From the opening race in Valencia to the double-points finale in Belgium, the excitement was non-stop. Our champions, Vittorio Ghirelli from Italy and Thomas Drouet from France, epitomized the high level of competition.”
With iconic venues such as Brands Hatch in England, the Circuit Zolder in Belgium, and Most Autodrom in the Czech Republic, the series delivered diverse racing experiences, combining road courses and a single oval event at Raceway Venray in the Netherlands.
A Unique Fan-Centric Experience
The NASCAR Whelen Euro Series has redefined the European motorsports landscape by combining competitive racing with an immersive American-themed festival atmosphere. Events feature live music, cheerleaders, and interactive opportunities for fans, such as paddock access and grid walks before races.
“When fans come to a Euro NASCAR event, they don’t just watch a race; they experience a full day of entertainment,” explained Galpin. “Our goal is to create a welcoming atmosphere where fans feel like part of the show.”
2025: New Technology and Enhanced Competition
Galpin announced significant upgrades to the series’ cars for 2025, marking the beginning of a new era for the NASCAR Euro Series. Key innovations include:
- Sequential Gearboxes: This modernization aligns with global motorsport standards and caters to the growing number of young drivers transitioning from karting.
- Rearview Cameras: Introduced to enhance safety and improve situational awareness for drivers, particularly those less familiar with spotters.
“These upgrades maintain the spirit of pure racing while improving safety and aligning with evolving driver needs,” said Galpin. “It’s an exciting step as we launch the Gen 3 car initiative.”
Additionally, Galpin emphasized the importance of cost-efficiency, highlighting that a full season in the Euro Series can be achieved for approximately €100,000, making it one of the most accessible professional racing series globally.
Global Expansion and Strategic Growth
Looking ahead, Galpin shared the series’ strategic focus on expanding its footprint across Europe while maintaining strong partnerships with teams and drivers. Plans include adding events in new regions such as Scandinavia and the Balkans while continuing to develop sponsorship opportunities and audience engagement.
“Our priority is to grow sustainably,” said Galpin. “We’re working with NASCAR International and our stakeholders to increase awareness and sponsorship while ensuring our teams remain competitive.”
A Platform for Aspiring Drivers
One of the series’ goals is to prepare European drivers for opportunities in NASCAR’s U.S.-based national series. Since its inception in 2009, the Euro Series has sent more than 40 drivers to compete in NASCAR events in the United States.
“Our drivers are proving they can compete at a high level, especially on road courses,” Galpin noted. “We’re committed to developing programs that ensure they are race-ready when they take the next step in their careers.”
The Future of NASCAR in Europe
As the series rebrands to become the NASCAR Euro Series in 2025, NASCAR will take on a more prominent role in its promotion, further strengthening the series’ global standing. With its unique blend of American racing culture and European innovation, the NASCAR Euro Series is well-positioned to become the pinnacle of European motorsport.
“We’re not just building a racing series; we’re creating a community and a pathway for global motorsports talent,” concluded Galpin.
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