JR Motorsports is actively considering a significant step up as it explores a move into the NASCAR Cup Series, a decision that could reshape its trajectory within the sport. This JR Motorsports Cup Series move, discussed recently by co-owner Kelley Earnhardt Miller on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, demonstrates the team’s increasing ambition and desire to advance beyond their established Xfinity Series roots.
Owned by Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Kelley Earnhardt Miller, JR Motorsports has consistently delivered strong performances in the Xfinity Series, making their potential entry into the Cup Series a logical, yet challenging evolution. While success at the lower level sets the stage, moving to full-time competition in the Cup Series would mark the boldest chapter in the organization’s history, and leadership remains focused on understanding the requirements before making such a leap.
Building Experience Through Key Cup Appearances
The team made its initial foray into the Cup Series this year by participating in the Daytona 500, an effort characterized by high expectations and logistical complexities. This premiere event provided JR Motorsports with critical learning experiences, especially regarding the demands of top-tier NASCAR racing and the weight of carrying the Earnhardt legacy.
During her radio interview, Kelley Earnhardt Miller outlined the group’s current mindset as they await broader industry developments.
“I think everybody’s kind of in the same right now, just watching to see how things play out with the lawsuit and where things head,”
said Kelley Earnhardt Miller, Co-owner.
According to Miller, the team chose the Daytona 500 for its historic significance and business opportunities, noting the event’s advantages over other potential races.
“It’s the biggest race of our season. And you know, the most opportunity financially, to try there in a good place, with a partner with sponsorship and with the way the race is. So, you know that that was just makes a lot of sense,”
said Kelley Earnhardt Miller, Co-owner.
Miller also indicated that future participation depends on the evolving conditions within NASCAR’s top series, including how ongoing charter negotiations develop and what new openings may arise for independent organizations. She highlighted that stability and the direction of the Cup Series will influence whether the team opts for additional entries at the highest level.
She continued by addressing the team’s strong position within the Xfinity Series, their ongoing plans for fielding multiple cars, and how Cup ambitions fit into JR Motorsports’ broader mission.
“We’re happy with our Xfinity program. We got another four… cars next year, four full-time cars for that, and another part-time gig with some of the Trackhouse drivers as well. So what we’re doing business-wise is great. Would we like to be Cup racing? We certainly would, from a legacy standpoint and everything that we built. I think it would be really cool for us to experience but the right opportunity just hasn’t come forward yet,”
said Kelley Earnhardt Miller, Co-owner.
Requirements and Outlook for a Full-Time Cup Transition
Transitioning to full-time Cup Series racing involves multiple hurdles, with obtaining a NASCAR charter standing as the most prominent. A charter provides security for race entries and is a key component for attracting long-term partners and sponsors, making it essential for teams seeking stability at the Cup level. JR Motorsports is keeping options open, expressing interest in possible alliances or partnerships to make this transition smoother.
Though the move has been debated internally for years, JR Motorsports remains firm on aligning their ambitions with NASCAR’s shifting business framework and structural changes within the series. Their reliable Xfinity Series performance offers assurance, yet the commitment needed for sustained Cup competition means the timing must be right.
The leadership closely monitors ongoing developments, particularly discussions involving charters and alterations to the Cup Series’ competitive landscape. With a legacy of methodical growth and a commitment to balancing business interests and driver development, the group remains cautious but optimistic.
Kelley Earnhardt Miller reiterated that moving into the Cup Series feels like a natural extension of what JR Motorsports has achieved, provided that the opportunity aligns with their vision for growth. The organization is confident in its foundation, and with each milestone, including collaboration with Trackhouse and ongoing Xfinity success, JR Motorsports positions itself to seize the right moment should circumstances become favorable.
Implications and Future Directions for JR Motorsports
The possibility of a JR Motorsports Cup Series move underscores the rising aspirations within the team and presents both challenges and opportunities as NASCAR undergoes changes. As the organization continues to evaluate the shifting landscape, their actions signal a careful, yet passionate commitment to advancing into the sport’s premier level, while maintaining the values that define their program. Future decisions will weigh legacy, timing, and the broader environment—offering the potential for significant impact within the sport should the right moment arrive.
😎 "From a legacy standpoint & everything that we built, I think it would be really cool for us to experience."@JRMotorsports co-owner @EarnhardtKelley speaks about the team's intentions to run the Cup Series in the future.
More 👉 https://t.co/WGRTG5gnEd pic.twitter.com/pnGdtsfT5R
— SiriusXM NASCAR Radio (Ch. 90) (@SiriusXMNASCAR) November 19, 2025
