Parker Retzlaff has made his mark. The 21-year-old driver from Wisconsin has signed with Alpha Prime Racing to compete full-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series for the 2025 season. This move isn’t just about securing a ride; it’s a statement of intent.
Retzlaff’s journey to this point has been anything but conventional. He honed his skills on Wisconsin’s dirt tracks, learning how to master cars that required more finesse than brute force. However, his big break came not on asphalt but in the digital realm of iRacing. With a staggering 1,150 wins, his dominance in the virtual world caught the attention of racing insiders, opening the door to real-world opportunities.
He transitioned to part-time ARCA competition before making his Xfinity debut with RSS Racing in 2022, where he impressed with a top-10 finish in just his second start. The following year, he joined Jordan Anderson Racing and quickly established himself as a rising star, earning seven top-10 finishes and often outperforming veteran teammate Jeb Burton.
The 2024 season, however, was a rollercoaster. Retzlaff started strong, securing a career-best third place at Daytona, but his season was marred by 12 DNFs, including nine crashes. While not all incidents were his fault, the narrative often placed the blame on him. These struggles, coupled with funding challenges, led to a parting of ways with Jordan Anderson Racing by year’s end.
Now, Alpha Prime Racing offers Retzlaff a fresh start. Speaking about the opportunity, Retzlaff shared his determination: “We’ve got something to prove. The goal is to win races, stay consistent, and show we belong at the top. Everyone here believes in me and what I can do.”
Team owner Caesar Bacarella is equally optimistic about the new partnership. “I’m thrilled to have Parker on board,” Bacarella said. “He’s a young, talented driver who’s going to help take this team to the next level.”
Retzlaff will join Brennan Poole, who played a key role in Alpha Prime Racing’s successful 2024 season, finishing 16th in the driver standings and helping the team secure 18th in owner points. Bacarella and team president Tommy Joe Martins believe Retzlaff’s addition strengthens their lineup and gives them a chance to compete with NASCAR’s top teams.
“There have been challenges, but for us, it’s always been about having the right people,” Bacarella explained. “We’re racing against the best teams in the world, but with Parker and Brennan, we’ve got two incredible drivers to lead us forward.”
For Retzlaff, the 2025 season represents a chance for redemption. He’s ready to transform his potential into consistent results and prove he belongs among NASCAR’s elite.
“I’m truly humbled,” Retzlaff said. “I wouldn’t be here without the support I’ve had along the way. Now it’s time to show what we can do.”
