Despite all the efforts made, Spire Motorsports did not achieve the expected results. With Corey LaJoie lagging behind in the Cup Series standings, he’s certainly had some good moments here and there, but he’s yet to score a win in 2024. Spire Motorsports’ other teams, whether in the Cup or Truck Series, were even less so. effective
But the situation in Speyer is nothing new!
This is a team that has been showing this kind of talent for some time. That is why the owners decided to make some important changes in the team. Corey LaJoie has already said goodbye to the team and is looking for new prospects for the upcoming season. So the team tries to bring in Justin Haley along with champion team leader Rodney Childers. Additionally, Travis Peterson is expected to take over as Michael McDowell’s crew chief for Spire Motorsports in the 2025 season.
These changes have a reason. And Spire Motorsports co-owner Jeff Dickerson made it clear with a statement.
Corey LaJoi leaves, what’s next?
It looks like Corey LaJoie’s departure is just the tip of the iceberg. The owners of Spire Motorsports appear to be taking even more drastic measures if the situation continues. They have clear instructions. For those who join the team and those who stay, it is ambitious and simple. Speaking to NASCAR SiriusXM Radio, Jeff Dickerson revealed the big changes at Spire Motorsports for the upcoming season and the owners’ expectations for the revamped team. He said, “We’re going to win. As if we were going to win. As long as you don’t make these moves without winning. You know. Don’t try to get rid of Corey, don’t bring in some of the guys we signed. You know the behind the scenes. You know, without thinking about building, building, building.
However, based on Dickerson’s comments, it does not appear that Spire is not in a recovery situation. When the post-Olympic break begins, Dickerson really hopes his team qualifies for the playoffs. Speaking about his expectations for the near future, he added: “The goal for this year is to win, and we still have this opportunity and I hope that in the next race we can make the playoffs, but from next year we have to win We can’t do what we did and not win.
These words from Jeff Dickerson are proof enough that Spire Motorsports wants nothing less than success for the upcoming season. But it is his star driver since 2021, Corey LaJoie, who suffers the consequences of this transition. With his final season at Spire Motorsports, what does his future hold?
LaJoi’s future is uncertain
Following his departure, the 32-year-old will join the free agent pool at the end of the season. LaJoi has 258 career Stanley Cup starts. And a talent like Corey LaJoie risks tempting some teams, especially since he is a free agent in the country for next season. According to Bob Pockrass of FOX Sports, Kaulig Racing and Rick Ware Racing are the two most likely suitors to sign LaJoie. Because Kaulig and Rick Ware Racing have two cards with a single full-time driver, LaJoie would be a great fit for both organizations.
Another possibility for him, according to Pockrass, is Front Row Motorsports, but they seem to be well behind third place at the moment. With Michael McDowell moving to Spire Motorsports, the spot at FRM is also a good fit. Do you think Spire Motorsports will be successful next season, or will the departure of Corey LaJoie cost them? What do you think the future holds? Tell us in the comments.
