Age is just a number, and Melvin de Groot is living proof. At an age where many drivers might consider hanging up their helmets, this Dutch racing veteran is dominating the track. In a thrilling 2025 NASCAR Euro Series season, de Groot not only secured his third Legend Trophy—a special classification for drivers aged 45 and above—but also achieved his maiden overall victory in a heart-stopping wet race at Brands Hatch. But here's where it gets even more impressive: de Groot didn't stop there. He declared his ambition to conquer not just the Legend Trophy but also the overall OPEN title in 2026, proving that his hunger for success is far from satisfied. Meanwhile, Happinessa emerged as the undisputed queen of the Lady Trophy, clinching the championship in her debut season with Bremotion.
De Groot’s journey to the top was anything but straightforward. His season began with a display of unwavering consistency, a hallmark of his racing style. In Valencia and Vallelunga, he maximized his points, securing a strong lead in the Legend Trophy. However, the road to victory was fraught with challenges. Kenko Miura briefly took the lead after a podium finish in Spain, but de Groot’s strategic approach allowed him to reclaim his position. The real test came at Brands Hatch, where he battled through treacherous rain conditions to claim his first overall win, a moment he celebrated with undeniable style.
But here's where it gets controversial: While de Groot’s success is undeniable, some critics argue that his dominance in the Legend Trophy might overshadow younger talents in the OPEN division. Is de Groot’s focus on both classifications fair, or does it take opportunities away from up-and-coming drivers? Let’s discuss in the comments.
The season wasn’t without its setbacks. At Most and Oschersleben, de Groot faced mechanical issues and fierce competition from Claudio Cappelli, who emerged as a formidable rival. Yet, de Groot’s resilience shone through, as he fought to maintain his lead in the Legend Trophy. The climax came at Circuit Zolder, where he delivered two flawless races to secure his title, leaving Cappelli in the dust. Happinessa, meanwhile, continued her steady rise, learning the ropes of EuroNASCAR stock cars while consistently topping the Lady Trophy standings.
And this is the part most people miss: Happinessa’s triumph in the Lady Trophy wasn’t just about winning races; it was about overcoming adversity. Her main rival, Arianna Casoli, was sidelined after a terrifying incident in Italy, leaving Happinessa to navigate the season without her fiercest competitor. Does this diminish her achievement, or does it highlight her ability to adapt and excel under pressure? Share your thoughts below.
As de Groot and Happinessa prepare to be honored at the NASCAR Banquet in Charlotte, North Carolina, one thing is clear: their stories are testaments to perseverance, skill, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. De Groot’s fifth-place finish in the OPEN standings and his bold plans for 2026 signal that he’s far from done making waves in the racing world. So, here’s a question for you: Can de Groot truly dominate both the Legend Trophy and the overall championship next season, or is he spreading himself too thin? Let the debate begin!
