Daniel Suarez celebrates wife Julia Piquet’s Better Half Dash victory after she claimed first place at the 12th annual event, held at the Trackhouse Motorplex in Mooresville, North Carolina, on May 20, 2025. The win was not only significant for Julia and Daniel Suarez but also benefited charity, as the event’s prize went directly to Julia’s chosen cause.
Julia Piquet Claims First Better Half Dash Victory
Julia Piquet, whose background is steeped in motorsports heritage as the daughter of three-time Formula One World Drivers’ Champion Nelson Piquet, returned to the spotlight with an impressive performance at this year’s Better Half Dash. The annual race, featuring wives and girlfriends of NASCAR drivers and crew chiefs, saw Julia beating out a field of competitors as she held the trophy proudly for the first time since the event began. In previous years, Ariana Jencik had secured the 2024 win, and McCall Gaulding, wife of Zane Smith, dominated with three straight victories between 2021 and 2023.
Suarez, a Trackhouse Racing driver and Julia’s husband since last year, celebrated her achievement online by sharing a photo of Julia lifting her trophy and adding a heartfelt caption in support of her accomplishment. The competition carried special meaning for both, as it not only marked Julia’s personal milestone but also shone a spotlight on their support within the NASCAR and motorsports community.
Celebrating with a Charitable Focus
This year’s Better Half Dash featured a $5,000 prize, which, in keeping with tradition, went to a charity of the winner’s choosing. Julia selected Project Street Vet, adding another philanthropic chapter to her and Daniel Suarez’s track record. Notably, in 2021, following the Coca-Cola charity event, the couple donated $30,000 to the Humane Society of Charlotte, displaying their ongoing commitment to charitable initiatives.
A Look at Julia’s Motorsports Ties and Family Connections
Julia Piquet’s win adds to a family legacy deeply connected to racing. In addition to her celebrated father, Julia’s sister, Kelley Piquet, is known for her relationship with four-time world champion Max Verstappen. Julia’s recent marriage to Suarez—currently a competitor in the Mexican Cup Series and the NASCAR Cup Series—further strengthens her close association with motorsports’ elite circles.
Julia Shares Her Emotions About Daniel Suarez’s Racing
During a recent Instagram series, Julia engaged with her followers about her experiences as Daniel Suarez competed in the 2025 Cup Series season, especially as anticipation built for the Daytona 500. When a fan questioned her nerves during Daniel’s races, Julia responded candidly:
“I get so nervous, to the point where I almost don’t even enjoy watching the race. On Thursday, during the duels, my legs were violently shaking; I was so nervous…I’m dead serious, sometimes I wish I could just crawl into a hole in the middle of the race and come out when the race is over.”
—Julia Piquet, wife of Daniel Suarez
Her honest words reflect the emotional intensity that comes with supporting a partner in the fast-paced and unpredictable world of motorsport.
Daniel Suarez’s Season So Far
Daniel Suarez has faced challenges in the 2025 Cup Series season, ranking 27th in the standings with 209 points over 12 starts. His season highlights to date include three top-ten finishes and a top-five at the Circuit of the Americas, demonstrating resilience even in a tough competitive environment.
Impact of the Victory for Family and Charity
Julia Piquet’s first Better Half Dash win brought celebration not only to her family but to charitable causes supported by the NASCAR community. By choosing Project Street Vet for the $5,000 prize, she highlighted the event’s impact beyond sport, showing how victory and platform can benefit those in need. With close connections to respected figures such as Nelson Piquet and ties to Max Verstappen and the wider motorsports world, Julia’s achievement adds another chapter to the ongoing legacy of racing excellence, camaraderie, and philanthropy.
