Corey LaJoie is navigating a period of transition as he reevaluates his NASCAR future after losing his full-time ride with Spire Motorsports during the 2024 season. With the focus on Corey LaJoie NASCAR future, the experienced driver has shifted gears, embracing new roles both on and off the track as he contemplates his next steps.
Early Promise and an Unexpected Change
Corey LaJoie spent three years with Spire Motorsports, piloting the #7 Chevrolet in the NASCAR Cup Series. In early 2024, a strong showing at the Daytona 500, where he secured a fourth-place finish, hinted at a promising year ahead. Despite this high point, LaJoie struggled to consistently deliver results, missing out on top-20 finishes in subsequent races. The team made the decision to replace him mid-season, bringing in Justin Haley for the remainder of the year, while LaJoie moved to Rick Ware Racing (RWR) for a handful of starts.
The transition was challenging for LaJoie, whose full-time Cup Series tenure had abruptly ended. Rather than stepping down to the Xfinity or Truck Series full-time for 2025, he sought opportunities that would allow him to stay connected to NASCAR while broadening his horizons.
Coping with Loss and Embracing New Challenges
Following his departure from Spire, LaJoie faced emotionally turbulent months. With a career tied closely to competition, the sudden change led to introspection and a period of personal growth. For the 2025 season, he competed in select Cup Series events with RWR, but without a charter, LaJoie was required to qualify for each race he attempted, adding more uncertainty to his endeavors.
The emotional journey was significant, as LaJoie openly acknowledged the impact of losing his seat.
You know the five stages of grief. I feel like I’m in the last stage of that now,
LaJoie told The Athletic.
During this period, LaJoie also embraced a new opportunity with Amazon Prime, which began broadcasting NASCAR races in 2025. Drawing on over a decade of experience since debuting in 2014, LaJoie was chosen to serve as an analyst. This new chapter offered a fresh perspective and a way to remain involved in the sport he loves.
He reflected on this broadcasting role, sharing,
Being on Prime helped me weather the storm,
and explained further,
When Prime is sitting there, and they have a list as long as they want, and they called me. Then they give you the right tools to be successful at your job, and we went and had a blast. … That helped turn the ship back the right way.
Through these words, LaJoie revealed the depth of emotion brought on by the career shift and the hopeful outlook fostered by finding a new place in the NASCAR world.
Limited Racing in 2025 and a Broader Vision
LaJoie’s 2025 Cup Series racing efforts were limited to just four starts, none of which resulted in a finish above 22nd place. Even with setbacks on the results sheet, his passion for racing and connection to the NASCAR community remained steady. LaJoie’s tenure as an analyst introduced him to different aspects of the sport, further showcasing his resilience and adaptability during a difficult phase in his career.
As he weighed his professional options, LaJoie continued to symbolize determination for the American sports fan and NASCAR faithful. With a loyal fanbase and over a decade of competitive experience, he has remained a familiar face, on the track and in the broadcast booth, as change swept through his career.
Looking to the 2026 NASCAR Season
The uncertainty surrounding Corey LaJoie NASCAR future is expected to continue into 2026. As of late 2025, he was not signed with any Cup Series team for the upcoming season. The lack of concrete plans, however, has not deterred him from remaining optimistic about potential opportunities, whether another chance to compete full time arises or the path turns elsewhere.
LaJoie has plans to return to Amazon Prime’s coverage of NASCAR in 2026, leveraging his analytical experience and deep knowledge of the sport. Despite his flexible outlook, the desire to return to the highest level of competition persists. As he candidly shared,
I’ve been still chasing the dream of trying to get back to Sunday full time, and if that window is closed, I’ll just shift gears and go on to the next thing,
LaJoie admitted.
His words resonated across the NASCAR community, reminding fans and fellow drivers alike of the unpredictable nature of the sport and the resilience required to navigate rapid changes in fortune. The support from fans has fueled LaJoie’s drive throughout his career, as he continues to engage with the larger sports audience, both on track and through media appearances.
The Road Ahead: Opportunity and Legacy
Corey LaJoie’s journey through the 2024 and 2025 NASCAR seasons has been marked by significant professional and personal change. The separation from Spire Motorsports was a difficult blow, pushing him to embrace new challenges and redefine his role within NASCAR’s ever-evolving landscape. Though his race finishes did not match earlier highs, his contributions as an analyst and his commitment to his dream of competing highlight his dedication to the sport.
As LaJoie’s career path unfolds, observers will watch with interest to see if he makes a full-time comeback as a NASCAR driver. Regardless of where he lands, his story stands as a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and the enduring spirit of those who call the world of motorsports their home. Followers of NASCAR, from die-hard fans to everyday viewers, will continue to look for updates on LaJoie’s next steps, recognizing that in the realm of racing, the future always holds the possibility of new beginnings.
