The 2025 NASCAR season hasn’t even begun, yet controversy is already brewing. With the Daytona 500 approaching, drivers are preparing for a highly competitive season opener. However, one Cup Series competitor has already run into trouble with NASCAR, potentially jeopardizing his long-awaited return. Cody Ware’s comeback to the Cup Series has been a hot topic, but not necessarily for the best reasons. Critics have questioned whether his opportunity is based on merit or family ties, and the latest developments haven’t helped his case.
Returning to full-time Cup Series racing for the first time since 2022, Ware has taken over the No. 51 Ford for Rick Ware Racing, replacing Corey LaJoie. However, his season debut has gotten off to a rough start. NASCAR found his car in violation of technical regulations, resulting in penalties even before the Daytona 500.
According to an Instagram post from ‘nascarrumornostalgia,’ penalties for the No. 51 team are imminent, with a cryptic remark about “lead in their pants.” Fox Sports’ Bob Pockrass later confirmed that both Ware’s and Chandler Smith’s cars failed inspection twice. As a result, Ware’s engineer and Smith’s car chief were ejected, with both only allowed to return after the Duels.
Even beyond the technical setback, Ware struggled for pace during Daytona qualifying. He posted a lap time of 51.835 seconds, placing dead last. His performance was notably slower than JJ Yeley from NY Racing Team, finishing over two and a half seconds behind pole-sitter Chase Briscoe. With such an underwhelming result, Ware faces a tough challenge in securing a strong finish at ‘The Great American Race.’
Despite skepticism about his Cup Series return, Ware is determined to prove his worth. Having raced sporadically in NASCAR’s top division since 2017, he now faces a pivotal season where results will be crucial. In an effort to sharpen his skills, Ware plans to participate in various short-track events at tracks like Florence Motor Speedway and Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway.
Discussing his approach, Ware explained that short-track racing could enhance his performance in Cup races, particularly at venues such as Martinsville and Bristol. Acknowledging the high horsepower and aggressive nature of these events, he believes the experience will be beneficial. “I think it’s a lot of good seat time, and we’re just here to have fun. If we can have a good night, that’s a bonus too,” he said.
Rick Ware Racing showed promise last year with Justin Haley behind the wheel, and Ware hopes to build on that momentum with the guidance of crew chief Billy Plourde. Confident in his progress and the team’s development, he stated, “I’ve improved as a driver, and RWR has improved as a team.” However, to silence the critics and end the nepotism debate, Ware must prove himself where it matters most—on the track.
