Corey LaJoie NASCAR analyst has become a reality after Spire Motorsports chose not to retain him for the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season, leaving the longtime driver searching for his next step. Despite not reaching the highest levels of racing success, LaJoie’s reputation for potential and perseverance kept hope alive among industry insiders that he could still thrive given the right opportunity.
Prime Video Offers a Timely Opportunity
The decision to part ways with Spire Motorsports marked a difficult period for LaJoie, who described the shift as a particularly painful setback after dedicating years to the team. Rather than allow disappointment to derail his ambitions, LaJoie remained proactive. It was during this uncertain interval that Amazon Prime Video, entering its first year as a NASCAR media rights partner, started scouting for someone authentic and knowledgeable to round out its broadcast team for 2025. The company valued candidates who could bring recent racing experience and genuine on-camera presence, quickly turning their attention to LaJoie.
Leveraging Media Experience Beyond the Racetrack
LaJoie’s ability to connect with audiences was already evident through his work hosting the podcast “Stacking Pennies.” Moving into television became a logical progression, and he soon distinguished himself as an analyst—blending industry insights with relatable humor. The experience not only rejuvenated his professional outlook but also restored confidence as he faced widespread self-doubt.
Feedback and Affirmation from the NASCAR Community
Reflecting on his new role and the encouragement he received, LaJoie shared,
“I got such great feedback from not only the fans, like people in the industry that I have a lot of respect for, like Rick Hendrick. I then realized how much equity I had in the garage and that I care way more about that equity than whatever equity is leading the fan base on X, because if you looked at X, (the fan base) turned on me for whatever reason.”
— Corey LaJoie, Analyst
Looking Ahead: Solidifying His Place as a NASCAR Analyst
Joining Prime Video provided LaJoie with renewed purpose and the tools necessary to redefine his career, this time outside the racecar. Prime Video’s timely involvement enabled him to steady himself after a turbulent period, equipping him to navigate his evolving role within the sport. The network’s confidence in him has led to the announcement that LaJoie will stay on as an analyst for the 2026 season as well.
Corey LaJoie’s journey from racing professional to media analyst not only highlights the shifting dynamics within the NASCAR community but also positions him as a relevant voice in the series’ coverage for years to come. Prime Video’s faith in LaJoie, and his ability to adapt and thrive in a new environment, underscores how sports figures can redefine their contributions beyond active competition, benefitting both their careers and the fans.
Corey LaJoie lost his Cup Series ride, then found something to ‘turn the ship back." I sat down with @CoreyLaJoie and we talked about the challenges he faced in 2025, how his outlook has evolved and what's ahead.
"You know the five stages of grief. I feel like I'm in the last…
— Jordan Bianchi (@Jordan_Bianchi) November 26, 2025
