Dale Earnhardt Jr. wants Mooresville barn in ‘Days of Thunder’ sequel

NXTbets Pro | Published On: September 3, 2026

Tom Cruise sequel plans

Tom Cruise announced a sequel to “Days of Thunder,” and the project was set for a 2028 release with filming scheduled to begin early next year. Cruise will again play Cole Trickle, bringing back the character he made famous in the 1990 NASCAR film. Anne Hathaway will co-star as a team owner and engineer, giving the sequel a new central role alongside Cruise. Cruise’s return keeps the original film’s core character in place, while Hathaway’s addition gives the film a new role alongside Cruise. The original “Days of Thunder” was released in 1990 and was a NASCAR film.

Daytona drivers react

Cruise surprised drivers last weekend by showing up at the Cup Series race at Daytona International Speedway and spending about 20 to 25 minutes talking with drivers and team owners. The visit sparked reaction across the garage, with several NASCAR drivers saying they would welcome a role in the sequel after meeting him. Joey Logano said a cameo would bring him major “dad points” with his five children. Chase Briscoe said he would be excited to be included. Kyle Larson joked that he is not an actor. Denny Hamlin, William Byron and Carson Hocevar were also among the drivers who said they would be open to involvement. Hocevar said it was “super cool” to offer input on the movie and share real-life clips. The response showed how quickly the sequel reached beyond Hollywood and into the NASCAR paddock.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. role

Dale Earnhardt Jr. had been in contact with the filmmakers for more than a year and had met with the writer several times to answer questions about NASCAR. Earnhardt said, “Anything you need, call me.” He also said he hoped the sequel would lean on the original movie and include Easter eggs for fans. That connection ran through the first “Days of Thunder,” which featured NASCAR drivers Richard Petty, Rusty Wallace, Neil Bonnett and Harry Gant. Hendrick Motorsports also played a key role in the production of the first film, tying the movie closely to the sport’s real-world name brand.