Earlier this year, Harrison Burton, one of the promising young drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series, learned that Wood Brothers Racing (WBR) would not be renewing his contract for the upcoming 2025 season. Burton had been driving WBR’s iconic No. 21 Ford Mustang Dark Horse, but the team opted for a change in direction, with Josh Berry set to take over the seat next season. As a result, Burton has had to reevaluate his plans and find a new path forward in his racing career. Rather than remaining in the Cup Series, he has decided to return to the NASCAR Xfinity Series, where he has announced he will drive for AM Racing (AMR) in 2025.
AM Racing expressed excitement about the opportunity to work with Burton, who brings significant experience from his time in both the Xfinity and Cup Series. The move comes as a welcome turn of events for Burton, who recently claimed his first-ever Cup Series victory at Daytona while driving for WBR, even though he was aware that his time with the team was coming to an end. This win marked a high point in Burton’s season, and he now looks to carry that momentum into his new journey with AM Racing.
In a press release, Burton expressed his enthusiasm about joining AM Racing and the chance to help the team grow into a competitive, race-winning outfit. “I’m excited to join AM Racing and help build it into the race-winning race team I believe it can and will be,” Burton shared. “I think this will be a great opportunity for me to take the things I’ve learned in the Cup Series, bring those to the Xfinity Series, and be the best driver I can be. It’s a blessing to continue my NASCAR journey, and I intend to make the most of this opportunity.”
AMR has solidified its technical resources as well, renewing its agreement with Roush Yates Engines, which will supply the power units for its Ford Mustang race cars. The team is also continuing its technical alliance with the Haas Factory Team, which has undergone restructuring following the rebranding of Stewart-Haas Racing after the passing of Tony Stewart. These partnerships are expected to play a crucial role in AM Racing’s quest to become a more competitive force in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
Wade Moore, president of AM Racing, expressed confidence in Burton’s ability to contribute to the team’s success. He praised Burton’s character and experience, noting how those qualities would benefit the team both on and off the track. “AM Racing is proud to welcome Harrison Burton on board,” Moore said. “He is a first-class individual and has already proven that he will immediately impact each team member here at AM in a positive manner. His experiences across NASCAR’s National Series will position him to be a leader and a catalyst in our pursuit of Victory Lane and the goals we ultimately envision for this program.”
Moore also took the opportunity to highlight AMR’s continuing partnerships with key technical partners. In addition to Roush Yates Engines, the team will maintain its alliance with the Haas Factory Team and its relationship with Ford Performance. Moore emphasized the importance of these collaborations in AMR’s growth and success, crediting them with the team’s improved performance over the last few seasons. “We are equally proud to continue our strong partnerships with Ford Performance, Roush Yates Engines, and the Haas Factory Team. These collaborations have been instrumental in supporting our team’s growth and success, and we look forward to building upon these relationships in the upcoming season. We will continue to invest in this team, our employees, and ultimately, our future,” he said.
As of now, specific details about Burton’s ride with AMR, including the car number and sponsorship lineup, have not been disclosed. However, the team and Burton are preparing for the transition with an eye toward building a competitive program for 2025. Burton’s move back to the Xfinity Series is seen as a significant opportunity for both him and the team. With Burton’s past experience and AMR’s renewed commitment to technical partnerships, the 2025 season could mark a turning point for both sides, paving the way for new successes on the track. Burton’s journey continues, and all eyes will be on how he performs in his new role with AM Racing.