Corey Heim replaces Jake Finch in ARCA race at Michigan International Speedway after a last-minute call-up, stepping into the No. 25 Toyota for Venturini Motorsports and charging to a strong second-place finish on Saturday, following the withdrawal of Finch due to illness. This unexpected substitution developed quickly, with Heim outpacing his recent ARCA experience to nearly capture victory behind winner Brenden Queen.
Late Change Puts Heim at Center Stage in Michigan
Heim’s entry to the ARCA Menards Series event came under urgent circumstances, as Jake Finch was sidelined by a viral infection. Reporter Bob Pockrass relayed news of Finch’s condition, and why the decision was made:
“Chatted for a moment with Jake Finch. He has a viral infection and despite getting fluids, just feeling really weak and knows it is best not to drive in the race. Obviously not easy decision to sit out but following doctors recommendations. Corey Heim in the ARCA car for Finch.”
—Bob Pockrass, Reporter
Despite being out of ARCA competition for a while, Heim adapted quickly. He was brought in with minimal warning and had to adjust to ARCA machinery, yet competed consistently near the front. Heim challenged Brenden Queen, who dominated much of the race and secured the win by withstanding Heim’s late push in the closing laps.
Heim’s Performance Highlights Teamwork and Quick Adaptation
After the race, Heim acknowledged the challenges of returning to ARCA after a significant absence. He credited his crew chief, Shannon Rursch, and detailed how adjustments improved the car’s balance, especially in the final stage, yet he pointed out that track position played a critical role in settling the final result.
Brenden Queen backed up his pole position with another standout performance, controlling the pace from the start and celebrating his third ARCA victory of the year. Heim, meanwhile, marked his 44th career ARCA start with his impressive runner-up effort for Venturini Motorsports.
Finch’s Season Interrupted by Medical Setback
This Michigan race was originally intended as Jake Finch’s third ARCA appearance in 2025 with Venturini. Earlier this season, Finch’s top finish had been a seventh place. On June 6, Venturini Motorsports confirmed Heim’s substitution; however, the reason for Finch’s absence was unclear until Bob Pockrass reported that doctors advised the young driver to rest as he recovered from illness.
Corey Heim’s Eventful Weekend: Reflections from Cup Series Debut
The abrupt Michigan assignment was only part of a busy few days for Corey Heim. He had recently competed in his second NASCAR Cup Series race of 2025, driving the No. 67 Toyota Camry XSE for 23XI Racing at Nashville Superspeedway. Normally a Truck Series regular for Tricon Garage’s No. 11 Toyota, Heim has taken on part-time Cup Series engagements this year.
During the Ally 400 at Nashville, Heim became involved in an incident with Brad Keselowski of RFK Racing. Attempting to move into 12th spot just past the race’s midpoint, Heim ran out of space exiting Turn 4, sparking contact that sent both cars into the wall and ended Heim’s race prematurely. He finished the day in 37th after the heavy crash.
“I’m pretty sure I just kind of cleared myself across the nose of the 6 (Brad Keselowski). A little bit too desperate… just used too much race track.”
—Corey Heim, Driver
Heim told reporters that his car had shown impressive speed in Nashville, but his poor starting spot hampered his race effort. Despite being disappointed with the crash, he emphasized appreciation for 23XI Racing, his crew, and sponsors, and expressed optimism about competing in additional Cup Series events in the future.
The Road Ahead for Heim and Venturini Motorsports
Corey Heim’s swift adaptation and resilience during a challenging weekend demonstrate his versatility and readiness as a replacement driver, reaffirming Venturini Motorsports’ trust in calling him up under pressure. As Jake Finch recovers and the team prepares for upcoming ARCA Menards Series events, the standout performances of both drivers will be closely watched. Heim’s recent experiences in both ARCA and the Cup Series highlight the ongoing opportunities and risks faced by young racers moving up in American stock car racing.
