At just 19 years old, Corey Day is making headlines across the racing world. A recent move has placed him with Hendrick Motorsports, one of the most well-known teams in NASCAR. This step follows a path filled with big moments, tough races, and high praise. His journey is full of talent and challenges. Something new has begun, and each race now carries more meaning. What happened before this moment helps explain why this story stands out so much today.
- Corey Day, at just 19, joins Hendrick Motorsports, a prestigious team with an impressive legacy in NASCAR.
- Day’s rapid ascent includes accolades like the 2022 Chili Bowl Rookie of the Year and notable series victories.
- His early NASCAR experience includes a promising debut in the Craftsman Truck Series, receiving positive feedback from crew chief Greg Ives.
- Endorsements from seasoned driver Kyle Larson highlight Day’s potential and talent among emerging NASCAR stars.
- Day’s resilience was showcased during the Marine Corps 250, where he overcame a crash and finished despite mechanical challenges.
Corey Day Joins Hendrick Motorsports
In an impressive move that has captured the attention of NASCAR fans and experts likewise, Corey Day has officially joined Hendrick Motorsports, a team synonymous with success and excellence in the racing world.
This remarkable achievement speaks volumes about Day’s flourishing career, especially given that Rick Hendrick, a titan in the sport, typically recruits only the most exceptional talent.
With over 315 NASCAR Cup Series victories and 14 championships, Hendrick Motorsports is a benchmark for racing skill.
Hendrick Motorsports stands as a pinnacle of excellence, boasting over 315 Cup Series victories and 14 championships.
Day’s accolades, including being the 2022 Chili Bowl Rookie of the Year and victories in prestigious series like the World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series, validate the enthusiasm surrounding his arrival.
This young prodigy now sets out on a life-changing expedition, adding to the storied legacy of Hendrick Motorsports.
Corey Day’s Early NASCAR Experience and Rick Hendrick’s Trust
Corey Day’s expedition into the world of NASCAR is a tribute to his remarkable talent and resolve, capturing the attention of both fans and industry insiders.
His quest began with a remarkable debut, demonstrating his potential and earning the trust of Hendrick Motorsports.
Key highlights of Day’s early experience include:
- His debut in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series at Bristol, where he completed 405 laps, finishing 18th.
- Positive feedback from Hendrick’s crew chief, Greg Ives, who acknowledged Day’s commendable performance.
- A notable contract with Hendrick Motorsports for a part-time schedule across multiple series, demonstrating the team’s confidence in his abilities.
Corey Day’s Reaction and Emotions
Joy and excitement resonate through the racing community as Corey Day reflects on his whirlwind expedition into NASCAR. In a recent interview, he openly expressed the bubbling emotions that accompany his rapid rise in the sport.
Day noted that, surprisingly, he never experienced a dramatic “Holy Crap” moment; instead, it has been a gradual realization of his new identity as a NASCAR driver.
“Yeah, I mean, it’s super cool. It all happened just so fast that nothing ever really hit me in the moment, like a big ‘Holy Crap’ moment. I didn’t have one of those. I kind of expected that but I never had that. I think it’s been kind of like a slower realization like, ‘Holy crap, this is my life now and I am a NASCAR driver.’ That part of it’s really cool.” – Corey Day
💬 “It all happened so fast that nothing really hit me in the moment.”
Catch a new episode of @DaveyCenter‘s “Victory Lane” with special guest, @corey_day_ — tonight at 8:30PM ET on our FREE 24/7 streaming channel!
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— Racing America (@RacingAmerica) April 15, 2025
A standout moment for him was when Hendrick Motorsports shared a photo featuring him alongside established stars like Kyle Larson and Chase Elliott. This milestone left him amazed, as he recognized the significance of being part of such a prestigious lineup at just 19 years old.
“I guess one of the big moments was when I saw – they posted a picture of all five of us releasing the schedule for the Xfinity car. Yeah, that was just a realization for me…I am in a picture with Hendrick Motorsports, four drivers, and the fifth driver. Super cool, (something) I never really thought would happen as a 19-year-old kid. So yeah, it’s just awesome.” – Corey Day
Day’s experience embodies the extraordinary blend of talent and opportunity in the racing world.
Kyle Larson’s Endorsement
Emphasizing the remarkable talent of Corey Day, Kyle Larson has emerged as a prominent advocate for the young racer, expressing steadfast confidence in his abilities.
As a seasoned driver battling for the title of ‘World’s Greatest Racer,’ Larson’s endorsement carries considerable weight within the NASCAR community. He stated unequivocally that Day is the best prospect among those yet to compete in NASCAR’s three series.
“Of guys who haven’t made it to the three series in NASCAR yet … he’s definitely the best prospect out there.”
“I definitely endorsed him for sure because I’ve gotten the chance to race with him and firsthand see how good he is.” – Kyle Larson
- Firsthand Experience: Larson has raced alongside Day, witnessing his skills up close.
- Unmatched Potential: Larson believes Day stands out among emerging talents.
- Strong Recommendation: Larson’s support highlights the faith placed in Day’s future success.
Corey Day Powers Through at Martinsville
Racing with resolve and resilience, Corey Day exhibited his emerging talent during the Marine Corps 250 at Martinsville Speedway, a race defined by fierce competition and unexpected challenges.
After qualifying 8th, Day faced adversity when contact from behind sent his car into a wheel hop, resulting in a crash into the fence that left him two laps down.
Yet, Day’s resolve shone through as he nursed his damaged vehicle, capitalizing on caution flags to return to the lead lap. Remarkably, he completed the race without power steering for the final 75 laps, demonstrating his grit and adaptability.
“Definitely a lesson on never giving up. We spent 150 laps two laps down and ended up not last and on the lead lap. With how bad everything went, it was still positive in that aspect – I never gave up, the team never gave up, so that’s good. Getting to race around cars is huge too. Figuring out where my tires are – the wheelbase is shorter than the (NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series truck), the body is different.” – Corey Day
Finishing 21st, Day reflected on the experience, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and the invaluable lessons learned amidst chaos on the track.
News In Brief: Corey Day NASCAR Rising Star
Corey Day’s rise in NASCAR, fueled by his partnership with Hendrick Motorsports, exemplifies the power of opportunity and talent. With endorsements from established drivers like Kyle Larson, Day has already made a notable impact on the track, displaying his skills at Martinsville. His emotional response to this incredible adventure highlights the passion and resolve that drives him forward. As he navigates this exciting chapter in his career, fans enthusiastically anticipate how this young star will shape the future of racing.
ALSO READ: Kyle Larson’s Bristol Brilliance: How a Near Triple Win Highlights NASCAR’s Talent Divide
