Kevin Harvick Weighs In on Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s Impact on JR Motorsports and Their Cup Series Future
The NASCAR world has long recognized Dale Earnhardt Jr. for his prowess behind the wheel and for building a lasting legacy both as a driver and team owner. But now, as his JR Motorsports (JRM) team sets its sights on the Cup Series, Kevin Harvick is leading the charge in praising Earnhardt’s unique leadership style, which he believes could bring an entirely new dynamic to NASCAR’s premier division.
During a recent episode of Kevin Harvick’s Happy Hour Show, Harvick openly endorsed Earnhardt’s ability to take JRM to the next level, following a successful debut in the 2025 Daytona 500 where Justin Allgaier secured a top-10 finish for the team. Despite being a Xfinity Series powerhouse, JRM’s performance at the Daytona 500 has stirred rumors of a more permanent shift to the Cup Series. And Harvick believes that’s a move NASCAR needs.
Harvick’s Endorsement of JR Motorsports in the Cup Series
Harvick, a driver who’s seen firsthand the dedication and energy Earnhardt injects into his team, was unequivocal in his praise. He described Earnhardt as someone who not only holds immense pride in the team but also brings a passion and enthusiasm that could reinvigorate the sport at the highest level.
“I wanna see Junior Motorsports in the Cup series, I think it’s good for our sport. Seeing Dale Jr., and I know Dale pretty well now, and seeing his enthusiasm showing up in the garage walking with that car everywhere,” Harvick shared. “He holds an immense amount of pride for stuff like that, and the history and heritage knowing that it was the first time for his team.”
According to Harvick, Earnhardt’s involvement in JRM’s Cup debut was emotional and sentimental, showing how deeply connected he is to his team’s journey. Earnhardt was present in the garage throughout the entire process, from the opening of the garage to the final lap. The veteran driver highlighted how this unique blend of leadership and passion was evident in the way JRM’s fans responded, with merchandise selling out quickly after the team’s debut.
The Role of JRM’s Sponsorships and the Bigger Picture
Not just about the emotional connection, Harvick also praised JRM’s partnerships, most notably with Chris Stapleton and Traveller Whiskey, which played a pivotal role in enabling the team’s Cup debut. The strong backing helped propel Allgaier’s No. 40 Chevrolet to an impressive finish in their first-ever Cup race. This accomplishment, Harvick believes, is only the beginning of what could be a long-term commitment from JR Motorsports in the Cup Series.
“JRM needs to be on the racetracks on Sundays,” Harvick added. “He would bring a different type of ownership to the racetrack that nobody else can bring.”
While the future of JRM in the Cup Series remains uncertain, Harvick’s confidence in Earnhardt’s leadership is undeniable. His belief that Earnhardt can bring something special to the Cup Series is a reflection of the respect he has for both Earnhardt’s legacy and his team’s potential.
A New Era in NASCAR?
The real question now is whether JRM will continue to build on its early success and make a full-time leap into the Cup Series. Harvick’s comments have only fueled speculation, and with the team already showing strong results, it seems inevitable that this is just the beginning for Earnhardt’s team in NASCAR’s top tier.
With Dale Jr. at the helm, the team isn’t just looking to be another entry in the Cup Series—they’re looking to redefine what it means to be a team owner in NASCAR. Earnhardt’s legacy as a driver has already cemented his place in history, but his move to ownership might just be the next chapter that reshapes the sport.
In the meantime, as Jeffrey Earnhardt—Dale Jr.’s nephew—continues to work his way through his own NASCAR journey, the spotlight is now firmly on JR Motorsports and their next steps in the NASCAR hierarchy. The future looks bright, with Kevin Harvick himself leading the way in support. Will JRM go full-time in the Cup Series? Stay tuned as the next chapter in NASCAR’s evolving story unfolds.