Brad Sweet
Born December 31, 1985 in Grass Valley, California, United States • Next birthday: December 31, 2025
December 31, 1985
Grass Valley, California, United States0
0 likesDecember 31, 2025
62 days out47
Total visitsThe world was forever altered when Brad Sweet, a relentlessly competitive racing driver, introduced his signature sprint-car mastery. Born on 1985-12-31 in Grass Valley, California, he grew up immersed in the local dirt-track culture, absorbing the hum of engines and the rhythm of competition. It was during his teenage years that he began racing outlaw karts and 360 sprint cars, forging his instincts on the West Coast.
In the late 2000s Sweet transitioned into national competition, making starts in the ARCA and NASCAR Truck Series in 2009. He simultaneously pursued his passion for dirt-track sprint cars, and in 2012 earned his first win in the World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series at Clay County. The early phase of his career held periods of obscurity as he tried to break into stock car racing, and when the NASCAR path slowed he responded by recommitting fully to sprint-car competition.
In 2013 Sweet claimed victory in the storied Kings Royal at Eldora, a major milestone in his ascent. He joined Kasey Kahne Racing in the sprint-car ranks, and in 2014 earned Rookie of the Year honours in the Outlaws series.
Years later, this foundation blossomed into dominance: Sweet secured championships in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 in the World of Outlaws, setting new benchmarks in the sport. Along the way, he claimed another Knoxville Nationals title (2018) and additional Kings Royal triumphs, cementing his status as one of sprint-car racing's elite.
His journey reflects a deep respect for community, team collaboration, and tradition within American dirt-track culture. When obstacles arose-such as stalling NASCAR opportunities-he responded by refocusing on his roots, honing his craft in sprint cars with unwavering dedication. The result: a lineage of young drivers inspired by his example and a legacy that enriches the racing community.
Even now, Brad Sweet's legacy reverberates through the worlds of sprint-car racing, art, science, and human creativity, promising fresh inspiration for future generations.
Watch Video
Career & Achievements
- Knoxville Nationals Winner (2018)
- Kings Royal Winner (2013)
- Kings Royal Winner (2019)
- World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series Champion (2019)
- World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series Champion (2020)
- World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series Champion (2021)
- World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series Champion (2022)
- World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series Champion (2023)
Latest News
NBC Sports
Brad Sweet Announces Retirement from Full-Time Sprint Car Racing
On 2025-10-21, Brad Sweet declared he will retire from full-time competition in sprint car racing, ending his run as a full-season driver. He finished second to Rico Abreu in the 2025 national title chase and said he will continue in selective events and behind-the-scenes roles.
Speed Sport
Six-Time National Champ Brad Sweet Retires From Full-Time Driving
Speed Sport reported on 2025-10-20 that Brad Sweet, six-time national sprint car champion, announced his last full-time season at the High Limit Racing banquet. He reflected on the fans, his career ups and downs, and affirmed he will still support the sport off-track.
Performance Racing
Brad Sweet & Kevin Rudeen Acquire West Coast NARC 410 Sprint Car Series
On 2025-09-29, Brad Sweet and Kevin Rudeen formally acquired the NARC 410 Sprint Car Series (Northern Auto Racing Club), the premier West-Coast 410-sprint-car sanctioning body, effective for the 2026 season. Sweet said the move is intended to build the sport's tradition and infrastructure in western U.S.
FAQ
Who is Brad Sweet and what is he known for?
Brad Sweet is an American sprint car racing driver celebrated for his multiple World of Outlaws championships and major victories such as the Knoxville Nationals and Kings Royal. He is widely regarded as one of the top dirt-track racers of his era.
When and where was Brad Sweet born?
Brad Sweet was born on December 31, 1985, in Grass Valley, California, United States. His upbringing in a small racing community influenced his lifelong passion for dirt-track motorsports.
How many World of Outlaws titles has Brad Sweet won?
As of 2023, Brad Sweet has captured five consecutive World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series championships from 2019 through 2023. His consistency and precision have redefined the standard for excellence in sprint car racing.
What teams has Brad Sweet raced for?
Brad Sweet has primarily driven for Kasey Kahne Racing, piloting the No. 49 NAPA Auto Parts sprint car. His collaboration with the team has been integral to his championship success.
Has Brad Sweet competed in NASCAR?
Yes. Brad Sweet raced in the NASCAR Truck Series and the Xfinity (formerly Nationwide) Series during the late 2000s before refocusing on sprint car racing, where he found his greatest success.
What is Brad Sweet's nickname and why?
His nickname, 'The Big Cat,' stems from his aggressive yet graceful driving style, reflecting both power and agility on the dirt track. Fans often use it as a symbol of his speed and control under pressure.
What are Brad Sweet's most notable wins?
Among his key triumphs are the Knoxville Nationals win in 2018 and multiple Kings Royal victories at Eldora Speedway. These prestigious events have solidified his standing among sprint car legends.
How did Brad Sweet respond to career challenges?
When his NASCAR ambitions stalled, Sweet rededicated himself to sprint car racing. He refined his craft, returned to his roots, and built a career defined by perseverance and excellence.
Does Brad Sweet have merchandise or fan events?
Yes. Fans can find official Brad Sweet merchandise and NAPA-sponsored apparel at major racing events and online through authorized racing retailers and his team's official store.
Is Brad Sweet involved in any business or racing initiatives?
Brad Sweet co-founded the High Limit Sprint Car Series alongside Kyle Larson, aiming to expand sprint car visibility and offer greater opportunities for racers across the United States.
What impact has Brad Sweet had on the racing community?
Brad Sweet's success has inspired a new generation of sprint car racers. His discipline, team spirit, and humility continue to shape the sport's culture and attract new fans worldwide.
Where can I watch Brad Sweet race in 2025?
Brad Sweet competes in World of Outlaws and High Limit Sprint Car Series events across North America. Schedules and live-stream details are available on DirtVision and the High Limit Racing website.
⚔️ Who's More Influential?
Allie Hann-McCurdy
ice dancer
Iryna Zaretska
karateka
👆 Click on your favorite to vote
