LIVE REPORT: Is the Iconic #18 Returning to Joe Gibbs Racing in 2025?
The NASCAR world has been buzzing with speculation following a cryptic social media post from Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR). Could the legendary #18 car, which has been absent since Kyle Busch’s departure, be making its return? Fans are ablaze with theories about who might pilot the car, with some even connecting the dots to JGR’s newest recruit, Chase Briscoe.
The Fallout: Kyle Busch’s Exit from JGR
The story begins at the conclusion of the 2022 season when Kyle Busch, one of JGR’s most decorated drivers, found himself unexpectedly out of the team. The departure of Mars Inc. and M&M’s as primary sponsors left the #18 without crucial funding. Despite JGR’s attempts to secure a deal with companies like Oracle, they fell short, forcing Busch to move to Richard Childress Racing (RCR).
Busch didn’t mince words about his disappointment, stating, “Did JGR try hard enough to sell me? My answer to that is no.” Although he acknowledged that he wouldn’t expect team owner Joe Gibbs to fund the car himself, the situation clearly left a mark on the driver and fans alike.
Since Busch’s exit, the #18 car has been sidelined, leaving fans wondering when, or if, it would ever return.
A Cryptic Hint for 2025?
This holiday season, JGR shared a festive Instagram video featuring a cookie designed like a race car—with the number #18 printed on it. While it could simply be a nod to the team’s storied history, fans see it as a potential hint at the car’s return.
Theories quickly emerged about who might drive the #18 if it returns in 2025. Here are some of the most intriguing possibilities:
Chase Briscoe to the #18?
JGR’s newest driver, Chase Briscoe, is replacing Martin Truex Jr. in the #19 for 2025. However, some fans believe Briscoe could end up piloting the flagship #18 instead.
One fan speculated, “Briscoe to the 18 would be dope. I think Bell has become too attached to the 20 in my mind, and 19 is more of an 88 than a 5 to Gibbs.”
Adding fuel to the fire is JGR’s new sponsorship deal with Campbell Soup. While Bass Pro Shops will back the #19 for most races, there’s speculation that Campbell could fund the return of the #18, with Briscoe as the driver. “Maybe the 19 becomes the 18 with Campbell’s Soup also hopping on board?”
Martin Truex Jr. and the Daytona 500
Though Martin Truex Jr. retired from full-time racing, he has announced plans for a partial schedule in 2025, including an attempt at the Daytona 500. Could Truex return to the #18 for the Great American Race?
One fan suggested, “MTJ in the #18 with Interstate Batteries for the 500?” This theory ties into the long-standing relationship between JGR and Interstate Batteries, which was a staple sponsor for the #18 during its glory days.
The Legacy of the #18
The #18 car has a storied history at JGR, with legends like Bobby Labonte, Tony Stewart, and Kyle Busch bringing home championships. Fans believe it’s only fitting for another top-tier driver to inherit the legacy.
Some are even eyeing Denny Hamlin, one of the sport’s most consistent drivers and a longtime member of JGR. “DH to the 18 in ’25,” one fan speculated, imagining Hamlin stepping into the car that has delivered so much success.
What’s Next for the #18?
As of now, there’s no official confirmation from JGR about the return of the #18 car. However, the cookie clue and new sponsorship deals have left fans optimistic. With drivers like Briscoe, Truex, and Hamlin in the mix, the possibilities are endless.
Who do you think should take the wheel of the iconic #18 if it returns in 2025? Let us know your thoughts!
