Gragson to pilot No. 1 for JR Motorsports in 2019
NASCAR Camping World Truck Series driver Noah Gragson will drive the No. 1 car for JR Motorsports in 2019, the team announced in a video Tuesday.
As previously reported by The Racing Experts, NASCAR veteran Elliott Sadler announced he would be retiring from the sport of NASCAR. That announcement left a vacant ride that needed to be filled, which Gragson was deemed the replacement.
The 20-year-old Las Vegas native, currently drives for Kyle Busch Motorsports in the Camping World Truck Series and is in the 2018 Truck Series Playoffs.
Gragson has two wins in the Truck Series in his three seasons racing. Gragson while previously under the Joe Gibbs Racing banner, ran three races in the Xfinity Series in 2018 and finished in the top-five in two of the three races.
“Noah’s proven himself quite a competitor over the last two seasons in the Truck Series,” said JR Motorsports General Manager Kelley Earnhardt Miller.
“He’s also impressed during a handful of races in the Xfinity Series and a lot of folks have taken notice. He brings the talent, energy and enthusiasm we’re looking for, and we’re glad to have him on board.
“With Noah’s addition, JRM has struck a healthy balance of youth and experience as we plan for the team’s future.”
With the three starts in the Xfinity Series in 2018 for Gragson, it appears JR Motorsports seems to think Gragson is ready to run full-time in 2019.
“Having the opportunity to drive for JRM and the No. 1 team next year is a dream come true,” Gragson said.
“I’d like to personally thank Dale Jr., Kelley, Chevrolet and everyone at JRM for allowing me to compete for a championship in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. I’d also like to thank my sponsors, my management team and my family, because none of this would be possible if it wasn’t for their support along the way.
“It will be an honor to follow in Elliott Sadler’s footsteps and I’m thrilled to be joining such a successful race team. Elliott and Dale Jr. have done so much for the sport over the years and I hope I can do my part to help take it to the next level. Overall, I’m excited, humbled and extremely appreciative for everyone helping this dream come to fruition.”
Gragson also has six wins in the K&N East and West Series through two seasons. Gragson is currently fourth in the Round of 8 in the Camping World Truck Series playoffs.
SOURCES
Racing-Reference
JR Motorsports
