Front Row Motorsports is growing by 50% next year.
The NASCAR Cup Series team announced on Wednesday that it is buying a third charter for the 2025 season, contingent on a new charter agreement being reached between NASCAR and the teams this year.
“We have a very positive outlook on the future of NASCAR and as the sport plans for success, so do we,” Front Row Motorsports owner Bob Jenkins said in a press release.
“Today that means having a plan for expanding back to three cars in the NASCAR Cup Series. I always have the vision to continue to grow and improve our team and that commitment and desire never changes. I am committed to the sport and its passionate fans and partners.”
Front Row Motorsports is expected to buy the charter from Stewart-Haas Racing, which on Tuesday announced it is shutting down at the end of 2024. Stewart-Haas currently owns four charters, which are estimated to be worth $20-$40 million each.
Front Row Motorsports fields two Fords this season for Todd Gilliland and Michael McDowell, but McDowell has announced that he is moving to Spire Motorsports in 2025. The team has not yet confirmed who McDowell’s replacement will be or who will drive the third car.
It will also continue its Truck Series program and alliance with Team Penske.
“Starting a new team from scratch is always a challenge, but with the opportunities in front of us, the talent we have in our leadership, and a bit of a runway to get there, I am confident that we can produce three competitive programs out of the box for the 2025 season, general Manager Jerry Freeze said.
“We haven’t lost sight of what our goals for 2024 are, to get our teams into the playoffs for both series. If we can keep up the speed on track and have a little bit of luck to come our way, we can achieve our objectives.”