Following a challenging performance at Watkins Glen last Friday, NASCAR Truck Series driver Andres Perez was released from Spire Motorsports in a move that surprised many in the motorsports community. The decision came after Perez started in the top five, recorded the quickest lap of the day, but ultimately landed in 21st place at the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS) Race held in Upstate New York—a turn of events that prompted his mid-season departure.
Perez, who clinched the ARCA Menards Series championship title in 2024, had been considered a developing talent for Spire. The team has since confirmed that Perez will continue driving Chevrolets as he transitions to Niece Motorsports for the rest of the 2025 season. Spire is expected to share updates soon about the future driver for their No. 77 truck.
Spire and Perez Address the Sudden Team Change
Spire Motorsports issued a statement highlighting Perez’s recent progress and affirming their support for the young driver as he explores new opportunities this season and beyond.
“Andres has made meaningful progress this season, and we remain confident in his future,”
—Spire Motorsports
“While we haven’t finalized our 2026 plans for the No. 77 team, we wanted to give him the opportunity to look ahead and pursue other options for the remainder of this year and beyond.”
—Spire Motorsports
The team further praised Perez for his positive demeanor and work ethic through the year, indicating their belief in his future career.
“He’s a hard worker, carries himself with humility, and brings a consistently positive attitude to the garage,”
—Spire Motorsports
“He comes from a great family, and we fully expect him to continue making strides as part of Chevrolet’s driver development program. We’re proud to have been part of his journey and will continue cheering him on.”
—Spire Motorsports
Perez Looks Ahead with Optimism at Niece Motorsports
Upon the announcement of his new team, 20-year-old Perez released a statement expressing his enthusiasm for joining Niece Motorsports, acknowledging both the trials and excitement of switching teams mid-season as the competition draws toward its climax.
“Overall, I’m really excited about the upcoming races with Niece Motorsports,”
—Andres Perez, Driver
“Making a change mid-season always has its challenges, but the team and I are working hard to be 100% by the time Richmond comes. I’m really focusing on having a good race there and feel very motivated with how the team has treated me. I feel the team is also motivated with having me there as well.”
—Andres Perez, Driver
Perez emphasized the collaborative environment at his new organization and looked forward to building momentum with Niece in the coming weeks.
“It feels like things are working well, and I’m ready to start a good foundation and build from there for the last eight races,”
—Andres Perez, Driver
“I want to go out there and show what we’ve got. I’m expecting some good results starting in Richmond, which is a track that I don’t know, but I’m putting a lot of emphasis in the pre-race work to go out there and start getting some good results with the team, which is what we’re all here for.”
—Andres Perez, Driver
Looking Ahead to Perez’s Niece Motorsports Debut
Perez’s first race in Niece Motorsports colors will come in just four days, as he takes the wheel in the season finale at Richmond Raceway—a milestone event to be broadcast on FOX Sports 1. With Richmond marking unfamiliar territory for Perez, the young driver has channeled optimism and intense preparation into his approach, seeking to create a solid foundation for long-term growth and strong results in his upcoming races.
The move brings renewed attention to the rapid changes and high expectations in the NASCAR Truck Series, as teams look for strong performers during the pivotal stretch toward the end of the season. Observers will be watching closely to see how Perez adapts to his new environment and whether he can begin to deliver on the promise shown during his 2024 ARCA Menards Series championship run. For the driver and both organizations, the transition marks a chance for growth, fresh challenges, and the pursuit of greater success on the national motorsports stage.
