Cruise announces 'Days of Thunder' sequel slated for summer 2028
Tom Cruise revealed on Saturday that a sequel to the 1990 NASCAR film 'Days of Thunder' is scheduled for release in summer 2028. Anne Hathaway will co-star, though her role is undisclosed. The announcement came at Daytona International Speedway, where Cruise is expected to address drivers before the night race.
The sequel's development has been quietly underway for over a year, with screenwriter Will Staples interviewing numerous drivers, team owners, and industry figures at NASCAR's Charlotte headquarters and various race weekends. Director Jonathan Levine also attended the summer race at Atlanta Motor Speedway to conduct research. Production is slated to begin in early 2027, with NASCAR and Hendrick Motorsports — the sport's most decorated team — providing support, mirroring their heavy involvement in the original film.
Hendrick vice chairman Jeff Gordon confirmed in February that he had personally lobbied Cruise to move the project forward, citing a broader resurgence of motorsport interest across streaming platforms and theatrical releases. The original 1990 film featured actual race footage shot at Daytona, with camera-equipped cars competing in real events, and the sequel appears poised to receive similar cooperation.
This sequel could reignite mainstream interest in NASCAR, which has seen fluctuating viewership in recent years. The pairing of Cruise and Hathaway may draw younger audiences unfamiliar with the original film, potentially boosting attendance and broadcast ratings. It could also inspire renewed studio investment in motorsport-themed productions, though its success will likely depend on whether the story resonates beyond existing racing fans.