It all traces back to 2008, when Josh Berry, a mere bank teller and amateur race car driver, took a leap of faith and reached out to NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt Jr., sparking off a partnership that has since shaped his professional racing career. Berry’s humble beginnings on iRacing, a popular racing video game, and his trials at Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway, caught the eye of Dale Jr., who was impressed by Berry’s in-car camera footage.
Dale Jr.’s positive affirmation, as he told the Charlotte Observer in 2023, “Man, this guy knows what he’s doing,” was a pivotal moment and resulted in Berry’s induction into JR Motorsports (JRM) in 2010. This opportunity provided Berry with the platform to showcase his talent, as he amassed over 75 victories and clinched the prestigious 2020 NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series Division 1 title.
Berry’s NASCAR career truly took flight when on March 16, 2025, he claimed his first NASCAR Cup Series win in Las Vegas, a moment he credits to the unwavering support of his mentor, Dale Jr. The victory was more than just a professional milestone; it was a testament to the deep bond between the mentor and mentee, a relationship that transformed into a lifelong friendship.
Behind the wheel of the No. 21 Ford for Wood Brothers Racing, Berry’s triumph marked the team’s 101st victory. A thrilling moment came with just 19 laps remaining when Berry overtook Daniel Suarez, ultimately securing his first Cup Series win. This victory turned the so-called ‘sophomore slump’ into a ‘sophomore surge’, as Berry celebrated his win in his second season.
Reflecting on Dale Jr.’s significant influence on his career, Berry opened up during a chat with Kevin Harvick on the Happy Hour podcast. He credited Dale Jr. as a constant pillar of support, from his stint at Hendrick Motorsports to his challenging journey at Stewart-Haas Racing. Despite the team disbanding in 2024, Dale Jr. remained by Berry’s side through thick and thin, exemplifying the true essence of their bond.
Berry’s debut in the Cup Series was marked by his replacement of HMS’ Chase Elliott in 2023, who was sidelined due to a snowboarding injury. His journey was not without hardships, especially when financial issues plagued Stewart-Haas Racing, but the support from Dale Jr. never wavered. After his victorious race, it was no surprise that Dale Jr. was the first person Berry reached out to.
Dale Jr.’s faith in Berry was reflected in his previous statements, where he expressed belief in Berry’s potential as a consistent winner. He had even risked JRM’s funds to provide Berry with 12 Xfinity races, a risk that ultimately paid off. The NASCAR community shared in this joy, with Kelley Earnhardt-Miller, Dale Jr.’s sister and JRM co-owner, expressing immense pride in Berry’s accomplishment.
Berry’s emotional victory not only represents a significant milestone in his career but also hints at possible future collaborations with Dale Jr.’s JR Motorsports. In the wake of the Las Vegas win, Berry entertained the possibility of rejoining JRM, should they venture into the Cup Series. With Rick Hendrick’s backing, the dream of seeing a JRM shop at the highest level seems achievable, and Berry would undoubtedly be eager to be part of this venture.
The Las Vegas triumph is just the beginning for Berry, who has rejuvenated a Wood Brothers Racing team that languished in the bottom 20 of the standings, propelling them to the playoffs in just five races. His remarkable performance has raised anticipations about a potential return to JRM, contingent on the team’s move to the Cup Series. A hint which, if realized, promises an exciting and emotional journey ahead. So, keep your seat belts fastened for what’s to come in Josh Berry’s NASCAR career.
