Mark Martin responded passionately after Jesse Love clinched the NASCAR Xfinity Series title for Richard Childress Racing in Phoenix, defying expectations and becoming the 2025 champion. The Richard Childress Racing championship win was marked by Love’s ability to overcome top contenders, including favorite Connor Zilisch.
How Jesse Love Secured the Xfinity Series Championship
Jesse Love made headlines by winning both the opening race at Daytona and the final showdown in Phoenix, making his 2025 campaign a bookended triumph. Starting from sixth position, Love faced stiff competition from the highly regarded JRM teammates, known as the championship duo. However, as the race unfolded, the No. 88 car underperformed, opening the door for Love’s impressive speed to carry him to the front.
Love’s charge culminated when he crossed the finish line first as the checkered flag waved on the Phoenix track, becoming the youngest champion of the Xfinity Series at age 20. The victory was significant not only for him but for Richard Childress Racing, which had fought against leading rivals like Connor Zilisch and other title contenders throughout the season.
While some in the NASCAR community were disappointed by the outcome, others, including Mark Martin—often referred to as ‘The Kid’—expressed enthusiasm for Love’s achievement. Martin, widely respected for his contributions to NASCAR despite never claiming a championship himself, shared his reaction via social media, stating:
“I say congratulations to Jesse Love and his entire organization. This kid has a ton of personality and that is one thing we need more of in NASCAR There are some superstars in the pipeline and if the media and NASCAR follow these kids the right way we will all win.” — Mark Martin, retired NASCAR driver
This endorsement from Martin highlighted the growing excitement around up-and-coming drivers, positioning Jesse Love among NASCAR’s rising superstars.
Mark Martin Shares Thoughts on Matt Crafton’s Truck Series Critique
The racing world also took note of Martin’s engagement with another high-profile story involving Matt Crafton, a veteran with three Truck Series titles. As Crafton prepares to retire from full-time competition after the 2025 season, he voiced frustration about changes in the Truck Series.
In an interview about his 2026 plans and the condition of the series, Crafton remarked:
“In all seriousness, you could put a monkey in them and they can drive them. It’s pathetic what NASCAR has done to the Truck Series as they have got too much downforce and not enough motor. You try to talk to them about it, and you’ll probably get in trouble for it.” — Matt Crafton, NASCAR driver
Martin reacted simply but pointedly, responding with a succinct assessment of Crafton’s frustration: “Ouch.”
The brief reply underscored Martin’s awareness of ongoing controversies and his willingness to share candid opinions within the racing sphere. Since his last race start in 2013, Martin has continued to offer perspectives on industry developments via social platforms.
The Impact of the Richard Childress Racing Championship Win
The triumph in Phoenix stands as a milestone for both Jesse Love and Richard Childress Racing, representing a significant shift in momentum within the NASCAR field. Love’s ability to perform under pressure against championship-caliber drivers such as Connor Zilisch signals a promising future not just for him but for the organization as a whole. Mark Martin’s endorsement further elevates the achievement, spotlighting new personalities and potential superstars now emerging in the sport.
As the aftermath unfolds, industry observers and fans alike will watch how Love’s career develops and whether Richard Childress Racing can build on this championship success in future seasons.
For Matt Crafton, what races does he want to do in his part time schedule in 2026?
Somewhere where when he races, he can ACTUALLY race.
"You could put a monkey in them and they can drive them. It’s pathetic what #NASCAR has done to the truck series. Too much downforce and not… pic.twitter.com/WI2VVbLbuf
— Bryan Nolen (@TheBryanNolen) November 1, 2025
