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Dale Earnhardt Jr. reveals the story behind JR Motorsports’ historic No. 40 debut at the 2025 Daytona 500

Virgilio Machado by Virgilio Machado
January 18, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
0
Legacy Motor Club’s Logo Rebrand Sparks Fan Frustration and Dale Jr.’s “Piston Cup” Zinger

Nov 22, 2024; Charlotte, NC, USA; Dale Earnhardt Jr. during the NASCAR Awards Banquet at Charlotte Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

NASCAR fans, buckle up! The 2025 Daytona 500 is already shaping up to be a blockbuster, and Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s JR Motorsports (JRM) has stolen the spotlight ahead of their highly anticipated debut in the Cup Series. With reigning Xfinity Series champion set to pilot the No. 40 Chevrolet, backed by Hendrick Motorsports, the excitement surrounding this entry is off the charts. But it’s the story behind the car number that’s adding even more intrigue to this historic moment.

Why No. 40? Dale Jr. spills the beans

On a recent episode of his podcast, Dale Earnhardt Jr., a NASCAR Hall of Famer, shed light on the decision to go with No. 40 for their Daytona 500 debut. While fans speculated the number might tie back to JRM’s legacy or Earnhardt’s storied history, the actual choice stemmed from a surprising source: their sponsor, Traveller’s Whiskey.

“It’s a connection to the blend No. 40 that Traveller’s utilizes in every bottle, much like High Rock being 88 proof,” Dale Jr. explained. “I’ll be honest with you, I was indifferent.”

Earnhardt emphasized the importance of collaboration between JRM and Traveller’s Whiskey, especially since this is the sponsor’s first foray into NASCAR. Allowing the sponsor to influence such a pivotal decision was, in Dale’s words, a necessary compromise.

“It’s Traveller’s first experience, and allowing them to have a little skin in the game… they were very particular about the car’s design, and we all compromised a bit. Them having this number they identify with is, I think, fair and important.”

A crowded field at the Great American Race

With an estimated 45 cars expected to attempt qualifying for the 2025 Daytona 500, competition is fiercer than ever. Dale Jr. sees the healthy car count as a positive sign for the sport’s recovery.

“It’s a good sign of health,” Earnhardt said. “If you’re going to start 30 cars and 40 are there, that’s great. But if only 28 show up, it’s concerning.”

For Earnhardt, the robust lineup reflects NASCAR’s efforts to regain its former glory. The upcoming Daytona 500 will not only serve as a proving ground for JRM but also as a litmus test for the sport’s economic and competitive vitality.

The legacy of JR Motorsports hits the big leagues

JR Motorsports’ move to the Cup Series has been long-awaited. With their dominance in the Xfinity Series—including multiple championships—this debut marks a significant chapter in JRM’s legacy. Partnering with Hendrick Motorsports only adds to the firepower behind their Daytona 500 entry.

For fans, all eyes are now on whether JRM’s historic debut will translate into success on NASCAR’s biggest stage. The No. 40 Chevrolet, tied to Traveller’s Whiskey, represents not just a car but a calculated partnership aimed at making waves both on and off the track.

Who will make the cut?

With 45 cars vying for only 40 starting spots, the intensity of qualifying will be palpable. Fans are already speculating which five drivers will fail to make the grid and whether JRM’s debutant can secure a strong position in their maiden Cup Series race.

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