Michael McDowell pays tribute to longtime Front Row Motorsports performance director Johnny Roten, who died at age 60, according to an announcement made Thursday. The news of Roten’s passing was shared by FRM, as tributes and condolences poured in from across NASCAR, highlighting Roten’s contributions and influence within the team and community.
Johnny Roten’s Contributions Remembered
Front Row Motorsports, actively competing with three Cup Series teams and two Truck Series entries in NASCAR, confirmed that Roten served as the team’s performance director for the past three seasons. During his time, the organization expanded significantly—growing from two to three charters in the Cup Series and increasing their Truck Series presence from one to two teams. These seasons included victories in both series and overall team growth associated closely with Roten’s tenure.
Michael McDowell, who spent seven years with FRM and was part of this period of development, offered a heartfelt acknowledgment of Roten’s dedication.
“Johnny was a great man that worked his tail off for us to have success. He would do whatever it took to get it done,”
McDowell wrote on X.
“Very sad for all of his Family, Friends and teammate’s. He will be missed.”
— Michael McDowell, Driver
The impact of Roten went beyond race results as FRM noted in their tribute.
“We are deeply saddened by the sudden loss of our Performance Director Johnny Roten,”
the team expressed on social media.
“Johnny has been an integral part of Front Row Motorsports for the last 3 years and the NASCAR community for well over three decades. His presence and personality will be deeply missed.”
— Front Row Motorsports, Team Statement
Legacy of Michael McDowell and Johnny Roten’s Partnership
Michael McDowell, who now drives the No. 71 Chevrolet for Spire Motorsports, was instrumental in FRM’s recent successes alongside Roten. McDowell achieved two Cup Series wins with FRM, as well as making the NASCAR playoffs in both 2021 and 2023, accomplishments reflecting the level of competitiveness the team reached during Roten’s leadership. McDowell’s transition to Spire followed the 2024 season, where he notched six top 10 finishes, three top 5s, and two poles, ultimately placing 22nd in the Cup Series standings for his new team.
The Broader Impact and What Comes Next
Roten’s passing is felt deeply throughout the NASCAR community, impacting friends, teammates, and industry peers. Over a three-decade career in motorsports, his influence was far-reaching, both on a personal level and in the professional accomplishments of organizations like Front Row Motorsports. As FRM and the wider racing community reflect on his legacy, the tributes underline the respect and admiration held for Roten as a performance director, mentor, and friend.
Johnny was a great man that worked his tail off for us to have success. He would do whatever it took to get it done. Very sad for all of his Family, Friends and teammate’s. He will be missed. https://t.co/e3IFBmduLu
— Michael McDowell (@Mc_Driver) November 20, 2025
We are deeply saddened by the sudden loss of our Performance Director, Johnny Roten. Johnny has been an integral part of Front Row Motorsports for the last 3 years and the NASCAR community for well over three decades. His presence and personality will be deeply missed. pic.twitter.com/1Sw5VSo0Xv
— Front Row Motorsports (@Team_FRM) November 20, 2025
