Earnhardt's JR Motorsports Makes Historic Daytona 500 Bid with Allgaier
Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s JR Motorsports is making its NASCAR Cup Series debut at the 2024 Daytona 500, marking a significant milestone for the Earnhardt family legacy.
Race car with whiskey branding
Justin Allgaier, the reigning Xfinity Series champion, will pilot the No. 40 car sponsored by Traveller Whiskey, a brand owned by country music star Chris Stapleton. Greg Ives will serve as crew chief, with Hendrick Motorsports providing engine support.
As an unchartered team, JR Motorsports must qualify for the race, making this attempt even more meaningful for the organization. Dale Jr., a two-time Daytona 500 winner himself, plans to be deeply involved in every aspect of the process.
"I want to be present for all the moments," Earnhardt said. "From selecting the chassis to going through tech inspection, I'm approaching this like it's a one-and-only opportunity — a dream come true."
The venture holds special significance for the Earnhardt family, particularly Dale Jr. and his sister Kelly Earnhardt Miller, who have built JR Motorsports from its 2005 debut into a powerhouse organization. The team has claimed four Xfinity Series championships and 88 race wins.
"This is the perfect situation. The right moment," said Earnhardt Miller, emphasizing the significance of competing at Daytona, where the Earnhardt family has enjoyed considerable success.
JR Motorsports joins six other Open teams vying for a spot in the Daytona 500, with no immediate plans for additional Cup Series races beyond this event.
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