NASCAR’s 85-win milestone is shrouded in drama, triumph, and heartbreak. From legends like Darrell Waltrip and Cale Yarborough narrowly missing the mark, to Jeff Gordon’s hard-fought victory reaching it, this elusive milestone has cemented itself as a near-impossible feat in the modern era. Could anyone else join the elite club—or is the number 85 truly cursed?

Let’s break down the stories behind the legends, the near-misses, and the modern drivers chasing this historic benchmark.

• Do you think drivers like Kyle Larson or William Byron have a realistic shot at reaching 85 wins?
• Is the 85-win milestone a result of changing eras, or does it feel like there’s truly a “curse” stopping drivers from hitting it?Which driver’s story—whether it’s Gordon’s comeback, Waltrip’s missed opportunities, or Johnson’s abrupt decline—resonates with you the most?
• With shorter careers and more parity in the field, will we ever see drivers set new win milestones again?How does today’s NASCAR environment make achieving records harder or easier compared to past eras?

Celebrate the legends, debate the “curse,” and share your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to check out the Lionel Racing Advent Calendar, the ultimate gift for NASCAR fans, available now at Daily Downforce.