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Matt DiBenedetto’s NASCAR fairytale: From idolizing Jeff Burton to driving the No. 99 in 2025

Virgilio Machado by Virgilio Machado
January 19, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
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Matt DiBenedetto’s NASCAR fairytale: From idolizing Jeff Burton to driving the No. 99 in 2025

Nov 9, 2024; Avondale, Arizona, USA; NASCAR Xfinity Series driver Matt DiBenedetto (38) during the Championship race at Phoenix Raceway. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Every NASCAR fan has a story about the moment they connected with the sport—and Matt DiBenedetto’s tale is no exception. For the Xfinity Series driver, his NASCAR journey began as a kid glued to the TV, watching races and picking his hero. That hero was none other than Jeff Burton, piloting the iconic No. 99 car for Roush Racing. Now, in a poetic twist, DiBenedetto will take to the track in 2025 behind the wheel of the very number that started his love affair with NASCAR.

A full-circle moment for DiBenedetto

DiBenedetto’s NASCAR career has seen its share of highs and lows. He raced alongside NASCAR’s elite during his seven full-time Cup Series seasons, but his career path took an unexpected turn after losing his Cup seat in 2021. Ironically, his replacement at Wood Brothers Racing was Harrison Burton—the son of his childhood idol.

After a brief hiatus and relentless pursuit of opportunities, DiBenedetto landed a partnership with Viking Motorsports and R.S.S. Racing in 2024. He competed part-time in the Xfinity Series with 28 starts in the No. 38 Ford, showing flashes of brilliance and proving he still belonged. Then came the big news for 2025: a full-time ride and the chance to drive the No. 99 car, a number etched in his heart since childhood.

“For me, it’s surreal,” DiBenedetto said. “The first NASCAR race I ever watched, I saw Jeff Burton in the 99 Exide Batteries car, and I just knew—he’s my guy, my hero. Now, to be driving the No. 99 is a dream come true.”

A reunion with old teammates

DiBenedetto’s return to a full-time schedule also reunites him with familiar faces. The team, now led by Jeremy Lang, is packed with former colleagues from his days at Leavine Family Racing. Lang served as president of the now-defunct No. 95 team, where DiBenedetto first made waves in NASCAR. Joining him is Dough Campbell, the spotter who guided DiBenedetto during some of his most memorable runs at Leavine and later at Wood Brothers Racing.

“Working with Jeremy and Dough again feels like coming home,” DiBenedetto reflected. “We’ve been through a lot together, and it’s incredible to reunite with a group that knows me so well. It’s the perfect mix of nostalgia and ambition.”

Looking ahead to 2025

Driving the No. 99 is more than just a symbolic nod to his past—it’s a chance for DiBenedetto to reignite his career and prove he still has what it takes to compete at a high level. His team is just as eager to see what the season holds, and DiBenedetto is brimming with optimism.

“I’m pumped for this year. It’s going to be fun,” he said. “The No. 99 is more than a number to me—it’s a piece of my story, and I’m ready to add the next chapter.”

As the 2025 Xfinity Series season approaches, fans will be keeping a close eye on DiBenedetto’s journey. From a kid idolizing Jeff Burton to driving the car that inspired him, his story serves as a reminder that passion and perseverance can make dreams come true.

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