Live Report: Corey LaJoie’s Cup Series Future in Jeopardy as Cody Ware Looms for RWR Seat
With Zane Smith officially locked in to drive the third car for Front Row Motorsports (FRM) in 2025, the NASCAR Cup Series grid has just one significant seat left to fill: the No. 51 Ford Mustang at Rick Ware Racing (RWR). This ride, previously piloted by Corey LaJoie during the final seven races of 2024, has become the last glimmer of hope for drivers still seeking a spot in the series.
The mid-season shuffle in 2024 saw Justin Haley move to Spire Motorsports’ flagship No. 7 car, while LaJoie landed a golden opportunity with RWR. However, unlike Haley, who secured a multi-year deal, LaJoie entered the No. 51 seat with no guarantees beyond the season. Now, with Smith’s confirmation at FRM, LaJoie’s position for 2025 appears increasingly precarious.
FOX Reporter Casts Doubt on LaJoie’s Future
Renowned NASCAR insider Bob Pockrass recently fueled speculation about LaJoie’s uncertain future. Responding to a fan query on X (formerly Twitter) asking, “I thought Corey had been confirmed for the 51??” Pockrass dropped a bombshell:
“Corey LaJoie is still working on his 2025 plans but not expected to be full time in the RWR No. 51 in 2025. Cody Ware appears to be the likely driver of that car.”
This revelation has cast a shadow over LaJoie’s Cup Series aspirations. The 33-year-old driver now faces stiff competition from Cody Ware, the son of team owner Rick Ware, who is reportedly the frontrunner for the seat.
Limited Options for LaJoie
With the Cup grid filling up quickly, LaJoie’s options are dwindling. Riley Herbst has claimed the third entry at 23XI Racing, and Zane Smith is returning to FRM, leaving LaJoie’s hopes pinned squarely on the RWR seat. However, the familial connection between Rick and Cody Ware adds another layer of difficulty for LaJoie to secure the ride.
As teams finalize their 2025 lineups, LaJoie’s path forward remains uncertain. Will he find a way to stay in the Cup Series, or will he be forced to seek opportunities elsewhere? Stay tuned as the final pieces of the 2025 NASCAR puzzle fall into place.
