Days of Thunder 2 in development with Tom Cruise returning for sequel
Motorsport.com • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 22, 2026, 8:30 PM
Last updated Jul 22, 2026

Paramount is advancing a sequel to the 1990 film 'Days of Thunder', with Tom Cruise set to reprise his role as NASCAR driver Cole Trickle. The project is in discussions with Jonathan Levine to direct and Will Staples writing the script. Further details on the film's direction have not been disclosed. This announcement marks a significant step toward bringing back a classic motorsport film after over three decades since the original's release.
- •Tom Cruise returning as Cole Trickle
- •Jonathan Levine in talks to direct
- •Will Staples writing the script
- •Original film released in 1990
- •Sequel development has been long-awaited
- 8:30 PMMotorsport.com — Days of Thunder 2 moving forward with Tom Cruise set to return for sequel film
"The Hollywood Reporter revealed that the long-awaited sequel to 1990's 'Days of Thunder' is moving forward, with Paramount in talks with Jonathan Levine in to direct and star Tom Cruise set to return. He portrayed young gun NASCAR driver Cole Trickle in the original film. It's unclear what direction they plan to go with the sequel, but Will Staples is writing the script. Wednesday's report ...Keep reading
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