Fresh off a dominant victory in the Xfinity Series season finale at Phoenix Raceway, Riley Herbst has sealed his transition to NASCAR’s elite, earning a full-time Cup Series ride with 23XI Racing. At just 25, Herbst is set to pilot the No. 35 Monster Energy Toyota in 2025, marking the culmination of a lifelong dream and the beginning of an exhilarating new chapter.
Here’s an inside look at Herbst’s journey, his reflections on the Xfinity Series, and his aspirations for the NASCAR Cup Series.
“A Lifelong Dream Realized”
Q: You’re now a full-time Cup racer. How does it feel?
Herbst: It’s awesome. This has been a lifelong dream, and to finally have a full-time ride in the Cup Series is incredible. We’ve worked so hard to get here, and now I can’t wait to get to Daytona to kick things off.
Navigating Uncertainty and Finding a New Home
Q: When Stewart-Haas Racing announced its closure, how did that uncertainty impact you?
Herbst: It was nerve-wracking. Back in March, we started hearing rumors about SHR, and from that point on, it was all about finding the best landing spot for the future. I had great people around me, but not knowing what was going to happen was tough. In the end, I think we found the perfect home with 23XI Racing, and I’m so grateful for this opportunity.
Joining 23XI Racing: A Perfect Fit
Q: What was your perception of 23XI Racing before joining the team?
Herbst: Watching drivers like Kurt Busch and Tyler Reddick succeed there, it was clear this team is top-notch. They have incredibly fast race cars and a forward-thinking approach. Being part of this organization is amazing, and I’m excited to make the most of it.
On the Transition to Cup Racing
Q: You’ve done eight Cup races so far. How do you feel about stepping up full-time?
Herbst: It’s a huge change, but those eight races gave me a taste of what to expect. The cars I’ll drive now will be better prepared and faster, which is exciting. I know it’s going to be a steep learning curve, but I’m ready for the challenge and eager to keep improving every week.
A Stellar Xfinity Series Career
Q: How would you summarize your time in the Xfinity Series?
Herbst: The early years were all about learning, but in the last year and a half, we really hit our stride. We had great speed, won multiple races, and to finish on top at Phoenix was the perfect ending. It was special to leave the series with that level of performance.
Key Relationships and Mentorship
Q: Your Xfinity crew chief Davin Restivo is joining you in the Cup Series. How important is that?
Herbst: It’s huge. Davin is young and eager, just like me. He’s been in the Cup Series before as an engineer, so having him on this journey is a big advantage. He’s already at the shop working on next year, and that gives me a lot of confidence.
Q: Anyone else lending a hand as you transition to Cup?
Herbst: Kevin Harvick has been an incredible mentor. His experience and wisdom are invaluable. He’s been to the top of the mountain, and being able to lean on him has been a huge help.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Q: What are your goals for your first full Cup season?
Herbst: It’s going to be a learning process. There will be great days and tough days, but my focus is on completing races, gaining experience, and improving week by week. If we keep progressing, I think we’ll have a solid year to be proud of.
A Family Legacy at Baja
Q: You recently won the Baja 1000 Trophy Truck Spec class with your family. How special was that?
Herbst: It was incredible. My family has been racing at Baja since the ’60s, so to continue that tradition and win back-to-back titles with them was amazing. Being down there with my cousins, uncles, and dad is something I’ll always cherish.
Ready for the Big Leagues
Riley Herbst enters the NASCAR Cup Series armed with talent, determination, and the support of a premier team. With Monster Energy and 23XI Racing behind him, he’s poised to make an impact as he takes on the sport’s biggest stage.
As Herbst himself puts it: “It’s time to go to work.”
