After a turbulent end to the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season, Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) faced the daunting challenge of replacing major sponsors like FedEx and Mavis Tires, which backed Denny Hamlin’s No. 11 team. With mounting pressure from fans and sponsors alike, the team needed to act swiftly to secure their future and prevent a repeat of the high-profile loss of Kyle Busch in 2022.
In a pivotal move, JGR has officially announced a partnership with Saia Inc., a leader in LTL (less-than-truckload) and freight shipment services. Saia will step into the primary sponsorship role for Ty Gibbs’ No. 54 Toyota Camry XSE for seven races in the 2025 season.
Saia Inc.: A strategic replacement for FedEx
The partnership with Saia is a natural fit for JGR, as the company operates in the same freight category as FedEx, which has been a cornerstone sponsor in NASCAR for nearly two decades. While FedEx remains the leader in the LTL industry, Saia’s bold venture into NASCAR signals its ambition to challenge the industry giant. This new collaboration is expected to bring a fresh perspective and aggressive marketing strategies to NASCAR’s sponsorship landscape.
The news was broken by Adam Stern of Sports Business Journal, who tweeted:
“Joe Gibbs Racing has found a replacement for FedEx in the freight category with Saia Inc., as reported last week by Toby Christie.”
JGR solidified the announcement with a promotional video featuring team owner Joe Gibbs and rising star Ty Gibbs. The team proudly stated:
“We’re excited to announce that we have partnered with Saia Inc. for a multi-year sponsorship of Ty Gibbs and the No. 54 Toyota Camry XSE in the NASCAR Cup Series.”
What the partnership means for Ty Gibbs and JGR
The sponsorship is a significant boost for Ty Gibbs, who is entering his third full-time Cup Series season in 2025. Gibbs showed flashes of brilliance in 2024, but with the addition of Saia as a sponsor, he now has a prime opportunity to elevate his career further. The multi-year deal not only provides stability for Gibbs but also strengthens JGR’s financial backing amidst a competitive sponsorship market.
For Saia, the partnership offers a massive platform to showcase its brand on NASCAR’s biggest stage. Competing against a well-established rival like FedEx, Saia’s move into NASCAR reflects its commitment to expanding its presence and engaging with a passionate fanbase.
A new era for Joe Gibbs Racing
While losing iconic sponsors like FedEx is a significant blow, JGR’s swift action in securing Saia highlights the team’s adaptability and resourcefulness. The partnership represents a new chapter for the team as it looks to remain competitive in both the racing and commercial arenas.
As Saia and Ty Gibbs gear up for their first season together, all eyes will be on the No. 54 Toyota Camry XSE to see how this partnership translates on the track. If successful, this could mark the beginning of a long and fruitful relationship for both parties, signaling that JGR is still a powerhouse in attracting top-tier sponsorships.