Justin Marks Hints at Project 91’s Return to Trackhouse Racing
Trackhouse Racing owner Justin Marks has hinted that the team’s Project 91 car will return to the track “sooner rather than later” after not running in 2023. Marks made these remarks during the Fifth Annual Race Industry Week, hosted by Racer.com, epartrade.com, and Speed Sport.
What is Project 91?
The Project 91 program is a unique initiative designed to allow world-renowned international racing drivers to compete in NASCAR, expanding Trackhouse Racing’s global reach.
The program debuted in 2022 with former F1 world champion Kimi Räikkönen racing at Watkins Glen. In 2023, Räikkönen returned to race at COTA, while Shane van Gisbergen stole the spotlight, winning the inaugural Chicago Street Race in his Cup Series debut. Van Gisbergen also competed in one other race that season under the Project 91 banner.
Trackhouse’s Future with Van Gisbergen
Looking ahead, Trackhouse Racing is set to expand to a three-car full-time lineup in 2025, adding van Gisbergen as a full-time driver alongside Ross Chastain and Daniel Suárez.
Marks explained that the team’s focus on preparing for this expansion in 2023 limited their ability to field the Project 91 car. However, he emphasized that the program remains a priority.
Marks on Project 91
“Project 91 is certainly not dead,” Marks stated. “I would expect to see that on the racetrack sooner rather than later. … We’ve got great partners on that car. As far as the future, a lot of opportunity. I mean a ton of opportunity. I get phone calls all the time from some of the greatest drivers around the world about coming and doing it. That’s really exciting for us.”
What’s Next for Project 91?
With Trackhouse Racing looking to balance its ambitious goals, the return of Project 91 promises thrilling opportunities for top international drivers to make their mark in NASCAR. Fans can look forward to more iconic names joining the mix as the program resurfaces in the near future.
