New drivers for Cope Family Racing are set to shake things up in the NASCAR world, but who are they, and what do they bring to the table? Derrike Cope’s team is putting a lot on the line as they bet their future on these young talents. With a rich history and big expectations, the pressure is on. Will they rise to the challenge, or will the spotlight prove too much?
Key Highlights
- Cope Family Racing, founded by Derrike Cope, will compete full-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series in 2025.
- The team collaborates with ECR Engines and Richard Childress Racing for advanced technical resources.
- Leland Honeyman Jr. joins as a promising young driver, excited to race in 17 events.
- Thomas Annunziata participates as a part-time racer, bringing motivation and prior NASCAR Xfinity experience.
- Derrike Cope aims to nurture emerging talent while leveraging his extensive motorsports expertise.
Launch of Cope Family Racing
While former NASCAR driver Derrike Cope‘s legacy is already cemented on the track, his latest venture marks a new chapter as he launches Cope Family Racing. This initiative, set to compete in the NASCAR Xfinity Series full-time in 2025, represents a notable commitment to the sport’s future.
Cope Family Racing is poised to make an impact, leveraging high-performance engines from ECR Engines and vehicles sourced from the reputable Richard Childress Racing. The team’s choice of the No. 70 Chevrolet underlines a tactical approach to blend tradition with innovation.
The decision to field a team in the highly competitive NASCAR Xfinity Series suggests a calculated move to nurture emerging talent while maintaining a competitive edge. Two promising drivers, Leland Honeyman, Jr., and Thomas Annunziata, have been confirmed to helm the cars. Their selection signals Cope’s dedication to fostering young talent and ensuring the team’s enduring presence in the series.
These drivers bring unique skill sets and fresh perspectives to Cope Family Racing, promising to enhance the team’s standing in the NASCAR community.
This venture is not only a reflection of Derrike Cope’s enduring passion for racing but also a tactical effort to establish a legacy that transcends his own career. The collaboration with ECR Engines and Richard Childress Racing provides a robust foundation for success, fostering a partnership that could yield notable dividends.
Derrike Cope’s Legacy and Role
Derrike Cope’s journey in racing extends beyond his recent endeavor with Cope Family Racing, reflecting a storied career marked by remarkable achievements. Known most prominently for his unexpected victory in the 1990 Daytona 500, Cope has etched his name into the annals of NASCAR history. His career spans five decades, a feat accomplished by only a select few, showcasing not just endurance but an adaptive skill in the evolving world of motorsports.
Before initiating the Cope Family Racing project, Cope was integral to the operations of StarCom Racing within the NASCAR Cup Series. His role there was not only administrative but tactical, guiding the team through the competitive landscape of top-tier racing. This involvement provided Cope with invaluable experience in team management and operational dynamics, skills he now brings to his new venture.
The formation of Cope Family Racing signifies a return to the NASCAR Xfinity Series, a platform where Cope’s earlier team had made a considerable impact before ceasing operations in 2017. This new chapter is poised to utilize Cope’s extensive expertise and industry insights, potentially setting new benchmarks in racing excellence.
Looking ahead, Cope’s role will likely be crucial in steering the new team’s tactical direction, drawing on decades of experience to nurture emerging talent and foster competitive performance. His legacy in racing not only highlights his individual accomplishments but also reflects his capacity to influence and inspire the next generation of racers, ensuring his enduring impact on the sport.
Leland Honeyman Jr.’s Role
What promising potential does Leland Honeyman Jr. bring to Cope Family Racing‘s new venture in the NASCAR Xfinity Series? At only 19, Honeyman enters the scene with a combination of youth and experience, positioning him as a considerable asset to Cope Family Racing.
Having competed full-time with Young’s Motorsports, he finished 22nd in his previous season. This achievement included capturing one top-five and two top-10 finishes, illustrating not only his competitive spirit but also his capacity to deliver remarkable performances.
Honeyman’s involvement in 17 races during the 2025 season represents a tactical move for Cope Family Racing as they seek to blend their storied legacy with fresh talent.
His statement, “I’m excited to join Cope Family Racing as they launch their NASCAR Xfinity Series program,” reflects his enthusiasm and readiness to welcome this opportunity. He views his participation as an honor and aims to contribute considerably to the team’s ambitious goals.
“It’s an honor to be part of a team with such a racing legacy, and I can’t wait to contribute to this new chapter in their history book. I’m ready to take on 2025 and continue chasing success on the track.” – Leland Honeyman Jr.
— Cope Family Racing (@CopeFamilyRacin) January 2, 2025
His enthusiasm to be part of a team with a rich history signals his commitment to learning and growing within the sport.
Thomas Annunziata’s Role
Thomas Annunziata steps into an essential role for Cope Family Racing as he takes over for the remaining races of the 2025 season. Making his debut at the Circuit of The Americas, Annunziata is set to bring a fresh perspective and energy to the team. Hailing from Colts Neck, New Jersey, he has been on a steady ascent through the NASCAR ranks. His previous attempts to qualify for NASCAR Xfinity Series races, despite a best finish of 28th at Pocono Raceway, have prepared him for this notable opportunity. His excitement is palpable as he joins Cope Family Racing (CFR), a team that combines new beginnings with seasoned NASCAR experience.
Annunziata’s role is critical as he integrates into a team rich in NASCAR history. Derrike Cope’s leadership is not new; his experience with StarCom Racing in the Cup Series adds a layer of credibility and wisdom to CFR. This collaboration is underpinned by a shared commitment to excellence and innovation in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
“I’m super excited to be racing part-time with CFR in 2025.”
“Derrike Cope and the Cope Family are rich in NASCAR experience from his driving days and running the team for StarCom Racing in the Cup Series. Although it’s a new team, CFR has assembled an experienced group to compete in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.”
“I’m ready and more motivated than ever to be a part of this exciting project. Time to go to work.” – Thomas Annunziata
Annunziata is poised to contribute notably to CFR’s groundbreaking 2025 season. His motivation and readiness are evident as he begins this promising expedition. As he aptly states, it’s time to get to work, and his involvement is anticipated to enhance the team’s competitive edge in forthcoming races.
Cope Family Racing’s Operations and Plans
Cope Family Racing (CFR) is set to make a strategic entry into the NASCAR Xfinity Series under the leadership of General Manager Derrike Cope. Having stepped away from the fast-paced world of NASCAR racing for a period, Cope is now orchestrating a tactical comeback.
The operation of CFR will be highlighted by a collaboration with ECR Engines and Richard Childress Racing (RCR), marking a significant alignment with established names in the motorsport industry. This partnership is expected to infuse the team with competitive resources and expertise, vital for a successful re-entry into the Xfinity Series.
Cope expressed enthusiasm about this venture, highlighting the excitement of working with his wife Elyshia, alongside Nick and Johanna, as well as the inclusion of two promising young drivers, Leland Honeyman Jr. and Thomas Annunziata. This youthful talent is anticipated to bring fresh energy and potential to the team, positioning CFR as a formidable competitor in the series.
“After some time away from the sport, the creation of Cope Family Racing begins another chapter for us in NASCAR. To have the opportunity for such a high caliber effort to present in 2025 feels amazing.”
“Elyshia and I are excited to be working alongside Nick and Johanna and look forward to having two young talented drivers, Leland Honeyman Jr., and Thomas Annunziata, showcase their potential in the highly competitive Xfinity Series.”
“We are reunited with Bob Fisher at ECR for our engine program and will utilize RCR race cars for our return to the Xfinity Series.” – Derrike Cope
The engine program, in collaboration with Bob Fisher at ECR, will provide CFR with robust and reliable power units, while utilizing race cars from RCR will guarantee the team has access to cutting-edge technology and engineering. This combination is envisioned to offer a competitive edge in the highly challenging Xfinity Series environment.
Looking towards 2025, CFR’s operations emphasize a blend of experience and innovation. The calculated approach taken by Cope and his team may well lead to notable achievements, setting a foundation for sustained success in the seasons to come.
News in Brief: New Drivers for Cope Family Racing
The establishment of Cope Family Racing, spearheaded by Derrike Cope, marks a noteworthy development in the motorsport industry, drawing from Cope’s esteemed legacy. With Leland Honeyman Jr. and Thomas Annunziata in crucial roles, the team is poised for a promising 2025 season. The tactical planning and execution of operations are expected to bring groundbreaking changes and competitive performance. This venture may influence future racing dynamics, setting new standards and inspiring other teams to investigate similar collaborative and tactical pathways.
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