Jesse Love, a rising talent in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, left Rockingham Speedway with powerful emotions on Saturday after what appeared to be his second win of the 2025 season turned bittersweet. After crossing the finish line first in dramatic overtime, Love’s victory was stripped away in post–race inspection. Yet, in a heartfelt interview, Jesse Love dedicated the race to Jessica, the late sister of his girlfriend Georgia Kryssing, who passed away from melanoma about a year ago, adding an intensely personal layer to the event’s emotional aftermath.
The Rockingham Speedway event was notable for many reasons, including the series’ return to the historic venue for the first time since 2004. For Jesse Love, it offered the promise of a career milestone: his first victory on a non-superspeedway track. Over 43 career starts, he has steadily climbed the ranks, and anticipation ran high as he led six times over a total of 53 laps, managing his fuel strategy masterfully during the final 96 laps of the race.
Georgia Kryssing has been by Jesse Love’s side throughout his NASCAR journey, often showing public support during critical races. Just recently, Kryssing shared a collage celebrating her one-year anniversary with Love, highlighting their relationship’s importance. Her presence at Rockingham — along with the memory of her late sister — was deeply felt as the race unfolded and emotions ran high. In a post-race interview with Kim Coon, Jesse Love expressed the depth of his feelings, sharing,
“It just goes to show how fast it happens… It’s been almost a year, and she was the sweetest girl.”
The event’s drama intensified when Jesse Love was disqualified after post–race inspection for a technical infraction, erasing what would have been his third overall NASCAR Xfinity Series win. Despite this setback, the emotional resonance of Love’s dedication to Jessica gave the moment lasting significance. Fans and fellow drivers responded with support, acknowledging both his on-track performance and the dignity he displayed in honoring Jessica’s memory.
As Jesse Love continues his ascent in the NASCAR world, the Rockingham race serves as a potent reminder that the sport’s impact goes far beyond lap times and checkered flags. The intersection of personal tragedy and competitive ambition brought a real, human narrative to the forefront, resonating with both new fans and seasoned observers. While the official record books may not reflect a win for Jesse Love at Rockingham, the race’s meaning endures, leaving many to wonder how such experiences may shape both his character and his racing career moving forward.
