As the dust settles on NASCAR’s 2025 silly season, one name remains a focal point of speculation: Corey LaJoie. After a challenging year and an unexpected stint with Rick Ware Racing (RWR) to close out the season, LaJoie’s future is still up in the air. With Cody Ware rumored to reclaim the No. 51 Ford Mustang full-time, the North Carolina native faces a crossroads in his racing career.
The RWR Decision Looms
LaJoie stepped into the No. 51 mid-season for seven races after parting ways with Spire Motorsports. While his performances showcased flashes of competitiveness, the odds of retaining the seat appear slim. Reports suggest that Cody Ware, with strong ties to the team, is the frontrunner for the full-time ride in 2025.
For LaJoie, this leaves two likely paths: stepping down to the Xfinity or Truck Series for a full-time drive, or shifting to a part-time Cup Series schedule combined with other professional opportunities. Given LaJoie’s experience and competitive drive, a part-time Cup deal seems the more appealing option.
Amazon Prime and Part-Time Racing?
Rumors circulating on social media suggest that LaJoie may be exploring a hybrid role, combining part-time racing duties with a broadcast analyst position at Amazon Prime, which is expanding its NASCAR coverage.
“Word on the street (at least my street) is that LaJoie might have some part-time rides, along with some sort of analyst role with Amazon #NASCAR #CoreyLajoie,” read a post from the Instagram fan page nascarrumornostalgia.
While details remain unconfirmed, the move could offer LaJoie a unique opportunity to stay connected to NASCAR while plotting his next steps in competitive racing. Whether his part-time ride would be with Spire Motorsports, RWR, or another team remains unclear.
A Strategic Pivot for LaJoie
Transitioning to a dual role could prove beneficial for LaJoie, whose personality and insight have made him a fan favorite. Broadcasting with Amazon Prime would allow him to expand his presence within the sport and keep him in the spotlight while pursuing selective racing opportunities.
This strategy mirrors the approach taken by drivers like Clint Bowyer and Jamie McMurray, who successfully balanced part-time racing with media roles before moving into full-time broadcasting.
What’s Next?
For now, LaJoie’s immediate future depends on final decisions from RWR and other potential teams. An official announcement is expected soon, and fans will be eager to see whether LaJoie’s next chapter involves a competitive return to Cup racing, a step back to develop talent in Xfinity or Trucks, or an exciting new role in broadcasting.
One Thing is Certain: LaJoie’s Story Isn’t Over
Whether he’s behind the wheel, behind the mic, or both, Corey LaJoie’s passion for NASCAR ensures he’ll remain a significant part of the sport’s fabric. His adaptability and charisma make him a valuable asset to any team—or broadcast booth—that he joins.
