Live Feed: Justin Haley Returns to Spire Motorsports, Eyes 2025 Success
The news of Justin Haley taking over the No. 7 Spire Chevrolet for the final seven races of the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season has sparked widespread discussion. The young driver replaces Corey LaJoie in a move that reunites him with Spire Motorsports, a team where he first tasted NASCAR success. Here’s a closer look at Haley’s journey and what this means for the 2025 season.
Who Is Justin Haley?
Born and raised in Indiana, Justin Haley began the 2024 season with Rick Ware Racing (RWR), driving the No. 51 Ford. Haley, who was formerly known as J.J. Haley until 2016, also owns Darkhorse Racecars, a manufacturer of dirt late model and modified chassis.
Racing runs in Haley’s blood—he’s the nephew of Todd Braun, the owner of Braun Motorsports. Off the track, Haley’s personal life has flourished; he married Haley Mottinger in 2023.
Racing Journey: From Midgets to Daytona Glory
Haley’s career began at the age of nine at the Kokomo Quarter Midget Club, where he quickly found success, winning state titles in 2009 and 2010. By 2014, he was competing in the K&N Pro Series East, and by 2016, Haley captured his first championship, with top-ten finishes in all 14 races.
Haley’s NASCAR journey gained traction in 2018 when he debuted in the Xfinity Series at Iowa Speedway. That same year, he nearly earned a win at Daytona but was penalized for crossing the double yellow line, finishing 18th instead.
The following year, Haley delivered on his potential. Driving the No. 77 Chevrolet, he secured his first NASCAR Cup Series win at Daytona International Speedway in just his third career start.
Why Did Justin Haley Return to Spire Motorsports?
Haley’s recent move back to Spire Motorsports stems from a mid-season driver trade between Spire and RWR. As part of this deal, Corey LaJoie and Haley swapped rides for the final seven races of 2024. The trade was a strategic move, with Spire confirming Haley would pilot the No. 7 Chevrolet full-time in 2025 under the guidance of Rodney Childers, his new crew chief.
“This partnership makes perfect sense,” said Spire Motorsports’ Co-Owner, Jeff Dickerson. “Justin earned his first Cup win with us, and his return aligns with our long-term goals.”
RWR, meanwhile, plans to reassess its 2025 lineup based on these final seven races, after signing Haley to a multi-year deal in mid-2023.
Spire Motorsports: A Team on the Rise
Spire Motorsports has been making significant moves, including the acquisition of Kyle Busch Motorsports and bolstering their crew with experienced names like Rodney Childers and Travis Peterson. The team also signed Michael McDowell, adding a veteran presence alongside Carson Hocevar, who thrived in 2024.
With Haley’s return, Spire Motorsports is banking on his potential to elevate the team to new heights in 2025. The No. 7 car now symbolizes a homecoming for Haley, who expressed his excitement, stating, “This is where it all began for me, and I’m ready to take this team to the next level.”
What’s Next for Justin Haley and Spire Motorsports?
The 2025 season looks promising for both Haley and Spire Motorsports. With the team investing heavily in talent and equipment, Haley is well-positioned to shine. His previous Daytona victory and years of experience with Chevrolet make him a strong contender as the team’s lead driver.
The 2024 season served as a transitional year for Spire, but with their revamped roster and Haley’s return, the foundation for future success is solid. As Haley prepares for the new season, the question remains: Can this reunion propel Spire Motorsports to greater heights?
Stay tuned as the countdown to the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series begins.
