Bentley Thompson is fresh of a second-place finish at the 2025 INEX Bandolero Nationals at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Representing the State of Wisconsin, Thompson is a well traveled Bandolero driver, who looks up to NASCAR's current and past drivers for inspiration. 

Hometown: West Salem, WI

Division: Outlaws

Number: 22

Team: PTR Driving Development

1. How did you get your start in racing?

I got into racing from my dad who got it from his dad. My grandpa started dirt racing, so my dad developed his love for racing there. He then got onto asphalt [tracks] and started running. My dad started me with a go-kart and I really enjoyed that so I moved on to Bandos.

2. How did you get the number 22?

22 was the number of my dad’s friend and racing rival from our home track.

3. Who is your biggest inspiration?

NASCAR guys like Kyle Larson and Ryan Blaney, I just look up to them because I want to be where they are at now.

4. What is your favorite racing memory?

Winning my first nationals event in Nashville 2024.

5. How do you get focused before a race?

I take deep breaths and just try to keep my mind as calm as possible.

6. What is your favorite track?

My favorite track that I have raced at is Highland Rim Speedway (Veterans Motorplex at the Rim). I really enjoy the banking and the speed, it's a lot of fun.

7. You’re doing a multi-hour race. Who are two drivers you are picking to share the race car with?

Dale Earnhardt Sr. and Carson Hocevar.

8. If your race car had a theme song that played every time you drove onto the track, what would it be?

I don’t know about my car’s song, but my current favorite song is House Again by Hudson Westbrook.

9. What are some life lessons you have learned from racing?

I have learned to never give up. Racing has also taught me to stay focused and just try to get a little better every day.

10. What is one thing that you love outside of racing that most people do not know about you?

I love fishing and playing cornhole.

11. You have had a very successful season in the Outlaws Division, what do you believe has been your biggest accomplishment this year?

Probably winning five out of the seven races I ran at Tomah-Sparta Speedway in Tomah, Wisconsin.

12. If you could live a day in the life of any famous racecar driver, who would it be?

Carson Hocevar because he is my favorite and he is pretty funny.