In the midst of NASCAR’s silly season, one pressing question looms large: Who will take the wheel of the #7 car for Spire Motorsports in the 2025 season? The seat is currently vacant as the team parts ways with Corey LaJoie after a four-year tenure. LaJoie played a crucial role in the development of the young team, which made its debut in 2019.
The decision to release LaJoie marks the beginning of a significant overhaul for Spire Motorsports. The team aims to implement several changes and emerge as a strong championship contender next year. Central to this effort is Rodney Childers, a seasoned crew chief who will be joining Spire from Stewart-Haas Racing after it shuts down next year. However, Spire has yet to secure a driver for Childers. Recently, a potential candidate has surfaced as a possible fit for the team.
The Future of Spire Motorsports and Corey LaJoie
In their statement about parting ways with LaJoie, Spire Motorsports noted, “In racing, there are always variables, but one thing we all know is this is a performance-based business, and it just hasn’t been there for several reasons. All those reasons are factored in when it comes to making a decision of this magnitude. With Ryan (Sparks) moving upstairs and Rodney (Childers) coming in next season, the best thing for Spire Motorsports is a clean slate for the No. 7 car in 2025.” LaJoie’s performance with Spire has not met expectations. Over the past four seasons (2021-2024), he has failed to secure a single win and only managed four top-5 finishes, with his best overall finish being 25th in 2023.
This underperformance led Spire to let LaJoie go, leaving him to search for a new opportunity. Despite this, LaJoie remains optimistic. He recently commented, “My phone’s going and people are interested in making calls.” This optimism might soon be validated. A recent report by Jordan Bianchi of The Athletic suggests that LaJoie could be heading to Rick Ware Racing in 2025. This move might be facilitated by the potential arrival of Justin Haley at Spire for the #7 seat, which could lead to a swap between the teams.
Analyst Opinions on the Potential Swap
NASCAR analyst Eric Estepp weighed in on the possible swap, describing it as a win-win situation. He explained, “If this happens, it’s a lateral move for Rick Ware Racing. Justin Haley is young and extremely talented, while Corey LaJoie, in his 30s, brings valuable veteran experience. LaJoie has a history of performing well with small teams and has strong sponsorship connections with companies like Schluter Systems, Built Bar, and Celsius. Although LaJoie might not match Haley’s raw speed, his experience and ability to attract sponsors could be a significant asset for Rick Ware Racing.”
While LaJoie offers experience and sponsorship, Haley brings demonstrated championship potential. Before entering the Cup Series, Haley had an impressive 2020 Xfinity Series season, making it to the final four with Kaulig Racing and finishing third. His performance in the Cup Series from 2021 to 2022, supported by a recommendation from veteran Brad Keselowski, underscores his talent and potential. Estepp believes that this move could be highly beneficial for Spire Motorsports, stating, “If Spire can pair a talented 25-year-old like Haley with Rodney Childers, a veteran crew chief with championship experience, they could become the breakout story of 2025. While Childers is already well-established, Haley could emerge as the breakout star of the season. Spire Motorsports has made significant investments in the team, and securing Haley from Rick Ware Racing could turn out to be a winning move.”
LaJoie’s Prospects at Rick Ware Racing
Securing a ride is always preferable to not having one, and if this deal goes through, LaJoie will remain in the Cup Series rather than facing a demotion to a lower-tier series. This could be a win-win for both Haley and LaJoie. Spire had high expectations for LaJoie that he struggled to meet, but smaller teams like Rick Ware Racing generally have lower expectations. According to Estepp, this environment might suit LaJoie well.
Estepp elaborated on LaJoie’s career, noting that he has typically thrived in smaller teams with lower expectations. He said, “A move to Rick Ware Racing would put Corey LaJoie back into a situation where he is most comfortable—at a smaller team with lower expectations. LaJoie has previously been with BK Racing, Go FAS Racing, and Spire Motorsports in its early years. In these settings, fans appreciate his occasional strong performances and dedication to sponsors, making him a beloved underdog.”
LaJoie began his career with Randy Humphrey Racing in 2014 as a part-time driver. He then joined BK Racing in 2017 and ran a full season, finishing 51st. In 2018, he moved to TriStar Motorsports and spent two years with Go FAS Racing, where he achieved his first top-10 finish. Since joining Spire Motorsports in 2021, he has continued to seek opportunities to excel. A move to Rick Ware Racing could provide LaJoie with the comfort and opportunity needed to thrive in the Cup Series.
What are your thoughts on this potential driver swap? Share your opinions in the comments below.
