Corey LaJoie recently reflected on his journey in the world of stock car racing, suggesting his NASCAR career might have taken a different path had he driven long-term for a powerhouse team like Hendrick Motorsports. The veteran driver’s comments emerged as fans and analysts compared the early achievements of Cup Series talents like Ty Gibbs and William Byron.
Comparing Early Careers and Team Support
Discussion about driver performance arose after NASCAR analyst Alan Cavana posted statistics highlighting the Cup Series results of Ty Gibbs and William Byron in their first three full seasons. Gibbs, in his opening years, collected no wins, 17 top-five finishes, and 32 top-10s, whereas Byron achieved one victory, nine top fives, and 31 top-10s. LaJoie, who took the wheel of the No. 9 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet for a brief stint in June 2023, offered insight drawn from this experience substituting for Chase Elliott at World Wide Technology Raceway.
“After my 3 days seeing what HMS races with, I’m here to say ANYBODY with a long runway (50+ races) with a key partner team will inevitably have some level of success.”
– Corey LaJoie, driver
LaJoie’s perspective highlights how team resources and consistent opportunities can shape a NASCAR driver’s success. By comparing his career with those who secured full-time seats on top-tier teams, LaJoie opens a conversation about the role of equipment, strategy, and stability in racing outcomes.
Recent Roles Beyond Driving
In the 2025 season, LaJoie adopted a flexible schedule, splitting time between part-time racing with Rick Ware Racing, serving as a reserve driver for RFK Racing, and sharing his insights as an analyst for Prime Video. Alongside his driving commitments, he hosts Stacking Pennies, a weekly NASCAR podcast featured on the sport’s official YouTube channel.
“I like doing TV,” Corey Lajoie said in a statement (via Jayski.com).
“I think I’m going to start up this carbon fiber business, and if NASCAR wants to keep doing the (Stacking Pennies) show, I’ll keep doing the show because I like doing it and having the platform to talk about life and racing.”
– Corey LaJoie, driver and analyst
“So, if I had a really good opportunity call, then sure, I’ll entertain the conversation, but there’s like 10 other things that I could be doing right now to start what the next chapter looks like, and I think I’m going to start focusing on that,”
he added. – Corey LaJoie, driver and analyst
LaJoie comes from a celebrated racing family. He is the son of Randy LaJoie, a former NASCAR Xfinity Series champion, and the grandson of Don LaJoie, who is enshrined in the New England Auto Racing Hall of Fame.
Open to New Offers, Focused on Daytona 500 Returns
Currently not bound by any driving contract, Corey LaJoie remains a free agent, but he has made it clear that the allure of the Daytona 500 remains strong. The 34-year-old has his sights set on competing in the 2026 edition of the Great American Race, an event renowned as one of NASCAR’s crown jewel contests and traditionally serving as the season opener since 1982.
“I’ll entertain Daytona 500 offers because I think I can compete for a win in a decent car there, and made the race the hard way a couple of times,”
LaJoie explained (via Motorsport.com). “So, I think I bring some value to a team, and you could also make about a year’s worth of pay in one week.“ – Corey LaJoie, driver
The upcoming 58th Daytona 500 is scheduled for February 15, 2026. Fans will be able to watch the event live on FOX Sports starting at 2:30 pm, or follow radio coverage on MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.
Looking Ahead: The Road and Possibilities for LaJoie
Corey LaJoie’s reflections reveal an openness to seizing new racing opportunities, especially with well-resourced organizations or for high-profile events like the Daytona 500. As the son and grandson of racing legends Randy and Don LaJoie, his insights also underscore how family heritage, team affiliation, and timing can intertwine to shape a NASCAR career.
With ongoing involvement in media roles and potential business pursuits, LaJoie continues to contribute to the sport on multiple fronts, while leaving the door open for a possible return to major Cup Series action if the right team and situation come along.
After my 3 days seeing what HMS races with, I’m here to say ANYBODY with a long runway (50+ races) with a key partner team will inevitably have some level of success.
— Corey LaJoie (@CoreyLaJoie) December 15, 2025
