Corey Heim, a highly talented 22-year-old racer known for his accomplishments in the Craftsman Truck Series, is set to seize a significant chance with the Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan NASCAR Cup team. Scheduled to compete at the Kansas Speedway on Sunday, Heim will drive the No. 67 Toyota Camry XSE for 23XI Racing, marking the beginning of his 2025 part-time Cup Series schedule. This pivotal moment follows years of hard work, perseverance, and steady results, as Heim steadily climbed the ranks of NASCAR.
Heim’s remarkable journey began with Tricon Garage, where he finished fourth in the 2023 Craftsman Truck Series and earned the runner-up spot in 2024. Despite such strong performances, the transition to a Cup Series seat has been slower than many expected, especially when others with fewer on-track achievements have already secured full-time rides. For Heim, however, the opportunity with the Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan NASCAR Cup team represents validation and a platform to showcase his abilities on stock car racing’s biggest stage.
Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan, as the co-owners of 23XI Racing, have consistently demonstrated an eye for emerging talent, and Heim’s inclusion speaks volumes. While Heim had brief Cup stints, including three races in 2024—two with Legacy Motor Club and one with 23XI—his upcoming run at Kansas is the first official outing in a part-time schedule for 23XI Racing. This decision underscores the team’s confidence in Heim’s ability to adapt and excel under pressure.
Heim addressed the media with composure, acknowledging the challenges but centering his focus on the positives. He said,
While some young drivers might be restless for rapid success, Heim credits his patience to both his accomplishments and the strong support he receives from the No. 11 Truck Series crew and the No. 67 23XI Racing team. He consistently delivers winning performances: 14 career Truck Series victories already, with three coming from just the opening eight races this year. Save for one race in Atlanta, Heim finished every event this season inside the top 10, testifying to his remarkable consistency and skill.
Heim shared,
This grounded perspective sets him apart, suggesting he values long-term growth and success over a rushed promotion.
Competing for a team headed by Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan is a dream scenario for a young driver, amplifying both the excitement and stakes. After recently finishing third at Kansas in the Truck Series, trailing only elite Cup Series drivers, Heim returns to the same track this weekend. If he can capitalize on this chance, his performance could open further opportunities and prove that his steady approach was the smartest pathway to NASCAR Cup success.
The move has generated buzz throughout the racing community, as fans and insiders recognize the significance. If Heim impresses in Sunday’s race, not only will it reflect well on the investment Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan have made, but it may also ignite a broader conversation about giving young talent opportunities. Heim’s focused patience, combined with the platform provided by his new team, sets the stage for a compelling new chapter in both his career and the ongoing evolution of the Cup Series.
