Joe Gibbs Racing ARCA Menards efforts continue to capture attention after recent standout performances at Phoenix Raceway, positioning the team as a top contender in both series and drivers’ championships throughout 2025. Following back-to-back pole positions and race victories, the organization is pushing for further success with the No. 18 Toyota Camry and rising driver Max Reaves leading the charge.
No. 18 Toyota Camry Leading the Charge at Phoenix
Joe Gibbs Racing delivered a commanding display at Phoenix in the ARCA Menards Series, highlighted by Brent Crews launching his JGR debut from pole position in 2025. Crews not only spearheaded the field at the start but also led over sixty laps during the 165-lap event, ultimately capturing victory after a dramatic late-race showdown. The team’s tradition of dominance continued a winning streak begun a year earlier, when William Sawalich put on a similar show in 2024—starting from pole, leading more than 65 laps, and steering the No. 18 Starkey/Sound Gear Toyota Camry to a triumphant win.
Max Reaves Embarks on a Full ARCA Menards Campaign
This season, 16-year-old Max Reaves—nicknamed “Mad Max”—takes the reins of the No. 18 Cook Out Toyota Camry, committed to an ambitious 18-race slate across the ARCA Menards Series, including both the East and West divisions. Pursuing the East Series drivers’ championship, Reaves marks a significant chapter for the JGR ARCA Menards development program. William Sawalich was the last to contest the drivers’ title in this development program, eventually claiming the ARCA Menards Series East crown in both 2023 and 2024. Joe Gibbs Racing is also setting its sights on the Owners Championship title this year, aiming to add to their impressive team accomplishment tally.
Breakout Rookie Season Lays Groundwork for Future Success
Reaves’ 2025 rookie campaign with JGR was nothing short of impressive. Racing in ten ARCA Menards Series events, he made an immediate statement by becoming one of the few drivers in series history to win his first three starts. Over the course of the season, Reaves racked up six wins and six pole positions, consistently finishing at the front and helping the No. 18 squad capture the ARCA Menards Series East Owners Championship. This strong debut underscores his swift adaptation to high-level competition and growing confidence behind the wheel.
Max Reaves: Background and Mentorship
Stepping into his sophomore ARCA Menards Series season, Max Reaves is determined to build on an outstanding rookie year. Hailing from Trinity, North Carolina, Reaves brings a broad background from quarter midgets, bandoleros, legend cars, and late models into ARCA competition. He remains an avid outdoorsman and credits his growth in part to the mentorship of 2000 Cup Series champion Bobby Labonte, who offers invaluable advice as Reaves faces new challenges. This season, Reaves is eager to test himself in more dirt track events, expanding his skillset within the series.
Off-Season Racing Keeps Skills Sharp
Throughout the off-season, Reaves continued to fine-tune his driving. In February, he achieved victory in the Hart to Heart 100 at New Smyrna Speedway, competing in the pro late model category. He followed that win by earning pole position at Southern National Motorsports Park, demonstrating the consistency and speed that make him a name to watch as the new ARCA Menards season unfolds.
Joe Gibbs Racing ARCA Menards teams are poised to build on recent victories at Phoenix, with Max Reaves bringing renewed energy and high expectations into the 2025 season. As the squad chases both individual and team championships, continued mentorship from figures like Bobby Labonte and strong off-season performances suggest even more success ahead on the ARCA Menards circuit.
