Veteran NASCAR Driver Parker Kligerman Announces Retirement from Full-Time Competition

Parker Kligerman, a seasoned NASCAR driver, has made the decision to retire from full-time competition in the sport's National Series. The 34-year-old driver, currently in his second season with Big Machine Racing, confirmed the news on The Money Lap podcast and through a subsequent social media statement.

Closing the Chapter on a Storied NASCAR Career

Bidding Farewell to Big Machine Racing

Kligerman's announcement came as a surprise to many in the NASCAR community. The driver, who has been a fixture in the sport for over a decade and a half, revealed that he will not be returning to Big Machine Racing in 2025. Kligerman has been piloting the No. 48 Big Machine Spiked Coolers Chevrolet Camaro for the team, owned by Scott Borchetta, during his current full-time campaign.

A Difficult but Necessary Decision

The decision to retire from full-time NASCAR competition was not an easy one for Kligerman. In his podcast, the driver candidly shared the thought process behind his decision, stating that it was not an overnight decision and involved months of deliberation. Kligerman explained that he had been exploring various paths, going back and forth, before ultimately reaching the conclusion that it was time to move on from full-time racing.

Reflecting on a Unique Journey

Kligerman's career in NASCAR has been anything but straightforward. The driver has experienced a mix of full-time and part-time racing, as well as forays into television commentary. Throughout his journey, Kligerman had set his sights on reaching the pinnacle of the sport – the NASCAR Cup Series. However, as he reflected on his career, he realized that the opportunity to achieve that goal was not presenting itself, leading him to the decision to retire from full-time competition.

Focusing on the Xfinity Series Championship

Despite his impending retirement, Kligerman remains focused on the task at hand – competing for the NASCAR Xfinity Series championship with Big Machine Racing. Although the team is not yet locked into the post-season, Kligerman's points advantage suggests a strong chance of advancing to the final stretch of the season.

Exploring New Opportunities

As Kligerman prepares to hang up his full-time racing gloves, he is not entirely closing the door on his motorsports involvement. The driver expressed a desire to explore the diverse world of motorsports, including the possibility of competing in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, particularly in the inaugural event at Lime Rock Park. Additionally, Kligerman is considering pursuing opportunities in the television and media realm, though he is not pressuring himself to immediately determine his next steps.

A Lasting Legacy in NASCAR

Kligerman's retirement from full-time NASCAR competition marks the end of an era for the veteran driver. With 260 NASCAR National Series starts under his belt, Kligerman has left an indelible mark on the sport, and his decision to step away from full-time racing will undoubtedly be met with both respect and appreciation from his peers and fans alike.