Kevin Harvick and Jeff Burton are headed to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, headlining the Class of 2027 that was announced Tuesday in Charlotte. They join pioneer-ballot pick Larry Phillips, while longtime NASCAR executive Lesa France Kennedy was tapped for the Landmark Award.
Voting Panel Locks In 2027 Class In Charlotte
The Hall unveiled its three new inductees Tuesday afternoon in Charlotte after the voting panel met earlier in the day, according to WCNC. The outlet reports that Harvick and Burton came out of the Modern Era ballot, while Larry Phillips emerged from the Pioneer ballot. WCNC also notes that Lesa France Kennedy was selected as this year’s Landmark Award honoree for her contributions to the sport.
Harvick’s First-Year Nod Was No Nail-Biter
Harvick landed on the Modern Era ballot in his first year of eligibility, carrying a record that includes 60 NASCAR Cup Series wins and the 2014 Cup championship, as listed by NASCAR.com. His résumé also features marquee victories such as the 2007 Daytona 500, and he has stayed visible in the sport after stepping out of the car.
That combination made his quick rise to Hall consideration feel almost inevitable. Forbes noted that Harvick’s first-year nomination drew little surprise from observers who have watched his career arc.
Burton’s Career On Track And On Air
Jeff Burton wrapped his Cup Series driving days with 21 wins, including a pair of Coca-Cola 600 victories, according to the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Since stepping away from full-time competition, Burton has become a steady presence in the broadcast booth as an analyst for NBC Sports.
That second act has kept Burton firmly in front of fans and decision-makers, adding some extra shine to a driving career that was already Hall-worthy on its own.
Pioneer Pick And Landmark Award
The Pioneer ballot selection, reserved for earlier eras and foundational figures, went to Larry Phillips. He is long celebrated for five NASCAR Weekly Series national championships, as detailed in the nominees listing on NASCAR.com. WCNC additionally reports that Phillips is estimated to have piled up roughly 1,000 wins over the course of his career, a staggering total that reflects his dominance on regional tracks.
Lesa France Kennedy received the Hall’s Landmark Award this year for outstanding contributions to NASCAR, according to WCNC, adding her name to a list of off-track leaders recognized for shaping the sport’s direction.
What Comes Next
The Class of 2027 will be formally enshrined at next year’s NASCAR Hall of Fame induction ceremony, which is traditionally scheduled around Daytona 500 festivities. Outlets have noted that the class will be celebrated in Charlotte and throughout the Hall’s events calendar.
Athlon Sports reports that inducted members typically receive their signature blue jackets at the Hall’s formal events the following year, a final touch that will soon be waiting for Harvick, Burton and Phillips.
