In a remarkable achievement, NASCAR veteran Justin Allgaier has now eclipsed his team owner and NASCAR icon Dale Earnhardt Jr. in the all-time Xfinity Series standings. The driver of the #7 Chevy celebrated his 25th career victory by taking the checkered flag at the Cabo Wabo 250 held at Michigan International Speedway.
During an interview with SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, the 38-year-old praised his #7 crew at JR Motorsports after securing his first win at the challenging 2-mile D-shaped oval. Allgaier’s strategic approach to fuel mileage proved crucial as the race extended into overtime.
“We’ve found ourselves in winning positions here so many times, but it always seemed like luck wasn’t on our side. Last year was a prime example; we had what was likely the best car but got spun on pit road and couldn’t recover in time. I can’t express enough gratitude to the team. Everyone at Junior Motorsports and the Hendrick motor shop has been incredible,” Allgaier reflected.
He’s meticulously reviewing every possible strategy to bounce back and position ourselves favorably. This team is truly exceptional, and everyone involved, especially the #7 pit crew and Aide de Han, has shown remarkable dedication. Today, we performed at an impressive level, making it to the final rounds of the playoffs with our sights set on a championship. This moment is going to hold a special place in our hearts for a long time,” he remarked.
The Illinois native is currently in his ninth full-time season with JR Motorsports, driving the #7 Chevy. Despite his efforts, Allgaier has yet to clinch an Xfinity Series title, with his best finish being a runner-up in the 2023 season, trailing Cole Custer. Following his second victory of the 2024 season, Allgaier now sits just 12 points behind the leader, holding the second position in the overall standings. He has also achieved six top-five finishes and 12 top-10 finishes in 21 races this season.
Take a look at #7 Justin Allgaier as he surpasses Dale Jr. on the all-time Xfinity Series win list:
“I’m going to keep pushing forward,” – Justin Allgaier expressed his determination despite not yet securing a championship title.
Over a remarkable 15-year journey in the Xfinity Series, Justin Allgaier has participated in over 450 races, achieving a commendable second place in the final drivers’ standings on two occasions, specifically in 2020 and 2023.
During a recent episode of Victory Lane with Davey Segal, Allgaier expressed his desire for closure through a championship win. He shared his thoughts, stating:
“When you take your last turn behind the wheel of a race car, you want to feel that you gave it your all, leaving nothing behind on the track. None of us would be satisfied walking away from the pit area knowing we didn’t put in 100% effort.”
He further emphasized, “If it’s not our day, I’ll keep pushing until I can’t anymore.”
Looking ahead, Justin Allgaier and the NASCAR Xfinity Series are set to compete next in the Wawa 250 at Daytona International Speedway in Florida on August 23.
