Corey LaJoie’s NASCAR Cup Series future could well be in jeopardy as his team hits a roadblock this weekend. NASCAR has dealt a blow to LaJoie’s No. 51 team at Rick Ware Racing following the car’s repeated failures during the postrace inspection process.
This has resulted in penalties that include a loss of pit stall selection privileges and the loss of a key crew member, according to 5Goats. These setbacks are particularly problematic for a team already struggling to survive.
LeJoie, a competitor widely regarded for his perseverance against the odds, is now under immense pressure. With the NASCAR Cup Series season rapidly progressing, these penalties amplify the pressure for LaJoie, who must deliver consistent performances to ensure his position remains secure in the competitive field. Despite achieving a celebrated P4 finish at the Daytona 500 earlier this season, these inspection failures cast a shadow on his season.
Pre-race inspection in the NASCAR Cup Series garage is complete.
The No. 51 failed twice (loss of pit selection and crew member ejection).
— Jayski (@jayski) October 19, 2024
The implications of losing pit stall selection are massive. The perfect pit location can influence a team’s race strategy and overall performance. For a team like Rick Ware Racing, which might not always have the luxury of this, this penalty could severely impact their operations in upcoming races.
Corey LaJoie, driver of the #7 Mattress Warehouse Chevrolet, looks on during qualifying for the NASCAR Cup Series Bass Pro Shops Night Race at Bristol Motor Speedway on September 20, 2024 in Bristol, Tennessee. Corey LaJoie’s NASCAR Cup Series career comes under question.
James Gilbert/Getty Images
LaJoie’s situation is further compounded by uncertainties surrounding his future in the Cup Series. While currently favored to secure a full-time position in the No. 51 car for the subsequent season, confirmation hasn’t yet come. The recent announcement involving Justin Haley’s move to Spire Motorsports, effective in 2025, has created a ripple effect throughout the grid. This reshuffle might influence LaJoie’s status with Rick Ware Racing, requiring him to prove his worth in every race as the competition becomes fiercer.
Sponsorship also plays a crucial role in this scenario. The team relies on a conglomerate of external and in-house sponsors to support their racing endeavors. Consistent performance is vital for maintaining these financial relationships. Any further downturn in results or violations could jeopardize these sponsorships, complicating LaJoie’s career prospects even more.
The season so far has been a roller-coaster for Corey LaJoie and his team. Amid high expectations, particularly after Spire Motorsports increased funding, inconsistency has been their constant challenge. Even though Spire now involves other teammates, LaJoie’s performance is still compared against emerging drivers, such as Zane Smith and Carson Hocevar, who at times outperform him.
Nothing is permanent, except for the pressure of driving in NASCAR. It’s highly likely that this pressure will reflect on LaJoie’s Sunday, but hopefully he can recenter his thoughts and put on a good show for his fans and team.
