Cody Ware opens up about Corey LaJoie’s impact, revealing how the Spire Motorsports driver is shaping his journey in NASCAR. Despite competing in the NASCAR Cup Series, Ware admits there is still much to learn. He describes Corey LaJoie as “one of the most amazing car talents,” crediting him for valuable guidance. With Corey LaJoie’s deep racing experience, including hundreds of super late model races, Ware is preparing for new challenges. What lessons has he gained from this mentorship?
Key Highlights
- Cody Ware has identified Corey LaJoie as a pivotal mentor in his NASCAR career transition.
- LaJoie’s mentorship role involves guiding Rick Ware Racing and focusing on team development strategies.
- Ware values LaJoie’s extensive racing experience, including his insights from super late model races.
- LaJoie’s shift from full-time driving to mentorship reflects a strategic career change within NASCAR.
- Ware aims to leverage LaJoie’s guidance to excel in races at North Wilkesboro and Darlington.
Corey LaJoie’s Transition from Full-Time Driving to a New Role
As Corey LaJoie stepped away from his full-time driving position, his shift to a new role marked a significant change in his NASCAR career.
Facing a 2025 season that lacked abundant opportunities, LaJoie skillfully pivoted to a mentorship role, leaving the cockpit yet maintaining his influential presence within the sport. By choosing to wield a microphone instead of a steering wheel, LaJoie welcomed a path that allowed him to impart his racing wisdom to the next generation.
His extensive experience in NASCAR positioned him as an ideal guide for Rick Ware Racing, tasked with shaping their future in the Cup Series.
In this change, LaJoie demonstrates a commitment to nurturing talent and ensuring the team’s tactical growth. While controversy surrounded the decision for Rick Ware’s son to fill his former seat, LaJoie’s guidance now promises to be instrumental in steering the team’s aspirations and challenges ahead.
Cody Ware’s Full-Time Entry and Fan Backlash
The shift of Cody Ware to a full-time driver for Rick Ware Racing sparked a wave of mixed emotions among NASCAR fans.
While some saw it as a fitting step for Cody to join his father’s team, others were dismayed by Corey LaJoie’s reduced role. LaJoie, previously a full-time driver, converted to a part-time position, coinciding with his new role as a NASCAR analyst.
This change, while opening new doors for LaJoie, left some fans concerned about the implications for team dynamics and the displacement of established drivers.
Cody’s move was viewed by many as an expected progression, yet the cost of LaJoie’s reduced driving schedule stirred debate.
Despite this, Cody stands to benefit from LaJoie’s extensive experience, as LaJoie assumes an advisory role.
This mentorship could prove invaluable for Cody, yet the fan reaction highlights the complexities involved in team restructurings within NASCAR.
Cody Ware on Corey LaJoie’s Mentorship
Cody Ware acknowledges the significant role Corey LaJoie plays as a mentor in his NASCAR expedition. Ware, the team owner’s son, highlights LaJoie’s vital influence, describing him as one of the most talented race car drivers.
“I mean Corey to me is obviously one of the most amazing car talents race car drivers. So be able to lean on him and the work with them is really crucial, there’s still a lot of things where you know I’ve had a lot of experiences being full-time in Cup Series but at this level with the in-depth approach, with team alliance and how we were growing things.” – Cody Ware
Ware values the opportunity to learn from LaJoie, underscoring the importance of working closely with him, particularly regarding team alliances and growth tactics. Despite Ware’s experience in the Cup Series, he recognizes that LaJoie’s extensive racing background, which includes hundreds of super late model races, will be invaluable.
“There will be another level of expectations, both as me driver team grows… I’ve not had a coach like of the other guys have had or just having that plethora of racing experience you know, hundreds of super late model races modified…. Corey LaJoie is going to be a biggest assist to me.” – Cody Ware
Corey LaJoie is not running full-time with Rick Ware Racing this season but will still be heavily involved, such as working closely with Cody Ware. Ware describes the benefit of having LaJoie in his corner and things they've already discussed for the season: pic.twitter.com/mAkugVWvbS
— Kelly Crandall (@KellyCrandall) February 21, 2025
LaJoie’s path with Rick Ware Racing, although not culminating in victories, showcases his commendable expertise. After shifting from Spire Motorsports, LaJoie competed in seven races with the No. 51 car.
Cody Ware’s Focus on Key Races
Focusing on key races, Cody Ware is setting his sights on events that could define his season. With his attention not solely on the Cup Series, Ware is tactically targeting the All-Star race at North Wilkesboro and the two essential fixtures at Darlington Raceway.
These races present meaningful opportunities for Ware to showcase his capabilities, especially as he steps into the challenging role of replacing an experienced full-time driver.
Being the son of the team owner adds an extra layer of pressure and expectations, making his performance in these races vital in proving his worth.
North Wilkesboro’s historic importance and Darlington Raceway’s demanding track conditions make them ideal platforms for Ware to demonstrate his competitive edge.
As the racing season progresses, Cody Ware’s focus on these specific events highlights his commitment to not only meeting but exceeding the high expectations surrounding his career in NASCAR.
AirMedCare Network Sponsorship for Corey LaJoie
AirMedCare Network’s partnership with Rick Ware Racing marks a significant development in NASCAR sponsorships, as they become the primary sponsor for Corey LaJoie and the No. 01 team during the Ambetter Health 400 at Atlanta Motor Speedway.
AirMedCare Network, a division of Global Medical Response, represents the largest air ambulance membership network in the United States. Their collaboration with Rick Ware Racing signifies a tactical expansion of their marketing efforts within NASCAR, underscoring their commitment to broadening their consumer base.
“AirMedCare Network has been a NASCAR partner for several years and we’ve been working with them to help grow their membership. Atlanta marks AirMedCare Network’s first race as a primary partner, and we’re proud to be a part of their expanded marketing efforts in NASCAR.” – Corey LaJoie
Corey LaJoie, who has shown promising potential, significantly finishing 12th at Daytona, expressed enthusiasm about this new venture, highlighting AirMedCare Network‘s longstanding association with NASCAR.
He views their initial appearance as a primary partner as a pivotal moment, aligning with both parties’ ambitions to promote growth. As the No. 01 team gears up for the race in Atlanta, expectations are high for LaJoie to utilize this partnership towards a commendable performance on the track.
News in Brief: Cody Ware Opens Up About Corey LaJoie’s Impact
Cody Ware’s entry into NASCAR’s full-time ranks marks a noteworthy career shift, with Corey LaJoie stepping into a mentorship role. LaJoie’s shift from full-time driving has not only facilitated Ware’s development but also attracted mixed reactions from fans.
Despite the backlash, Ware values LaJoie’s guidance as he focuses on vital races. Meanwhile, LaJoie’s new partnership with AirMedCare Network highlights his enduring influence in the sport, as both drivers navigate their evolving careers in NASCAR.
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