Justin Allgaier will once again attempt to race into the Daytona 500 with JR Motorsports, showcasing a newly unveiled car inspired by the 1970s. The updated Justin Allgaier Daytona 500 car, sponsored by Chris Stapleton’s Traveller whiskey, debuted this January, drawing early praise for its retro design and unique elements.
Returning to Daytona: The Team, the Car, and the Partnership
Dale Earnhardt Jr., a principal figure in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series through his team JR Motorsports, has consistently pushed boundaries in the sport. Last year, a partnership with country star Chris Stapleton and the Traveller whiskey brand resulted in a JR Motorsports entry at the Daytona 500, with series champion Justin Allgaier behind the wheel. Building on the success of that venture, the team announced in November that they would make another attempt at the iconic race with Allgaier, again running as an “open car,” which means they are not guaranteed a spot and must qualify on speed and performance.
Design Elements Evoke the Spirit of the 1970s
The new #40 car was revealed in a special event attended by Earnhardt Jr., Allgaier, and Stapleton. Based on the previous year’s model, the revamped design incorporates burgundy stripes along the top and bottom, paired with a retro-styled number that further emphasizes its throwback aesthetic. According to JR Motorsports, the team added vintage-inspired stickers to the car’s front end, fully capturing the essence of a 1970s race car.
“Heading to the Daytona 500 with an old school look. pic.twitter.com/VJBmH1zbmr” — JR Motorsports (@JRMotorsports)
The distinct visual flair was met with enthusiasm, with all three—Earnhardt Jr., Allgaier, and Stapleton—agreeing that the latest iteration surpasses last year’s design in appeal. The blend of nostalgia and performance aims to attract both long-time fans and new followers to the team’s Daytona effort.
The Challenge of Earning a Spot on the Daytona 500 Grid
Allgaier, who has driven full-time for JR Motorsports in the Xfinity Series since 2016 and claimed the 2024 championship, faces the high-pressure task of qualifying for the Daytona 500 through on-track performance due to the car’s open status. This echoes last year’s feat, when JR Motorsports battled its way into the race despite lacking a guaranteed starting position. Allgaier impressed in that attempt, moving up from 19th on the grid to finish ninth—achieving a better result than several full-time Cup Series drivers over the season.
“JR Motorsports has officially qualified for its first-ever Daytona 500—what an incredible moment! 🍻🏁 pic.twitter.com/ircUaRVEqJ” — Dirty Mo Media (@DirtyMoMedia)
Achieving official Daytona 500 qualification for the first time was a powerful moment for the organization and a testament to the strong partnership between Justin Allgaier, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Chris Stapleton, and all involved.
JR Motorsports’ Legacy and Thoughts on Cup Series Expansion
Founded in 2005, JR Motorsports stands out as a dominant force in the Xfinity Series, credited with four championships and 108 race wins. This success has sparked questions about potential future moves into the NASCAR Cup Series. Earnhardt Jr. has openly shared his aspirations to become a full-time Cup Series team owner. However, he has also discussed the significant financial challenges involved, particularly the rising costs associated with Cup Series charters. He addressed the issue last year, noting the financial risk and need for substantial external investment:
“What would need to happen is, an investor, somebody who wants to partner … The rest of the money has to come from somewhere else, and that has to come from somebody who wants to invest in the idea that that $40 million charter is going to be $100 or 150, 200, $250 million down the road … That’s why, if it happens it happens, is kinda the way you got to feel about it.” — Dale Earnhardt Jr., Team Owner
The recent settlement of the Cup Series charter lawsuit involving 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports is expected to push charter values even higher, complicating potential entry and making expansion a greater financial gamble for teams like JR Motorsports. While fans and team members alike hope for a permanent Cup Series presence in the future, current efforts remain focused on continued success in the Xfinity Series and making memorable runs at events like the Daytona 500.
What’s Next for the Allgaier, Earnhardt, and Stapleton Collaboration?
For now, the alliance between Earnhardt Jr., Stapleton, and Allgaier offers an exciting narrative for the upcoming Daytona 500. With a vehicle that blends classic 1970s aesthetics and contemporary performance, JR Motorsports hopes to capture attention on racing’s biggest stage. As the “Great American Race” approaches, the partnership aims to repeat or exceed last year’s qualifying run, building excitement among NASCAR enthusiasts for an underdog team making headlines through perseverance, collaboration, and style.
Heading to the Daytona 500 with an old school look. pic.twitter.com/VJBmH1zbmr
— JR Motorsports (@JRMotorsports) January 15, 2026
JR Motorsports has officially qualified for its first-ever Daytona 500—what an incredible moment! 🍻🏁 pic.twitter.com/ircUaRVEqJ
— Dirty Mo Media (@DirtyMoMedia) February 14, 2025
