Rick Ware Racing and Spire Motorsports have revealed an upcoming driver exchange following the NASCAR Cup Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway. This swap, happening during the season, is part of both teams’ strategy to gear up for the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series.
Corey LaJoie, who has been with Spire Motorsports since 2021, will make the switch to Rick Ware Racing (RWR), while Justin Haley will take over LaJoie’s previous spot at Spire Motorsports. The move signals a fresh start for both drivers as they prepare to debut in their new roles at Kansas Speedway later this month.
LaJoie is set to drive the No. 51 Ford Mustang for RWR, with his first race scheduled for Kansas Speedway on September 29. LaJoie’s season has seen its share of highlights, with three top-10 finishes out of 29 starts. One of his most notable achievements was his impressive fourth-place finish at the Daytona 500 on February 18, a performance that continues to stand out in his season so far.
On the other hand, Justin Haley will be stepping into the No. 7 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for Spire Motorsports, also making his debut at Kansas Speedway. Haley, 25, has had a solid season with RWR, notching two top-10 finishes. His ninth-place result at Darlington on May 12 was a significant milestone during his first year with Rick Ware Racing.
Spire Motorsports President Jeff Dickerson expressed his gratitude for LaJoie’s contributions to the team. In a statement shared by Yardbarker.com, Dickerson praised LaJoie’s dedication and hard work over the years:
“Corey LaJoie has been a cornerstone of Spire Motorsports, and we are incredibly appreciative of the time, effort, and energy he has put into our program. RWR is getting a workhorse in Corey. His commitment to his craft and relentless tenacity inspire those around him to excel.”
From the Rick Ware Racing side, President Robby Benton acknowledged Haley’s importance to the team, especially regarding the growth of RWR during his tenure.
“Justin Haley is a highly skilled driver who has made significant contributions to Rick Ware Racing. He approached us during the Olympic break with an opportunity that would greatly benefit his career in the long term. We understood his desire to explore this opportunity, as Justin had joined RWR early last year and played an instrumental role in the development of our organization.
“In our discussions with Justin after the break, we mutually decided to release him from his contract with RWR to support his growth.”
Justin Haley first made waves in the NASCAR Cup Series when he secured his inaugural victory at the Coke Zero Sugar 400 in Daytona in July 2019, a milestone that also marked Spire Motorsports’ first-ever win. This driver swap essentially brings Haley back to where he initially found success, adding a layer of anticipation to his return.
As both LaJoie and Haley prepare to hit the track with their new teams, Kansas Speedway will be a focal point, as fans and teams alike will closely watch their performances in their new rides. This driver swap not only signifies a new chapter for the drivers but also highlights both teams’ commitment to their long-term vision for future seasons.
NASCAR News: Corey LaJoie To Be Swapped Out From Spire Motorsports After Bristol
