Ben Rhodes Bio
Early Life and Background
Benjamin Jon Rhodes was born on February 21, 1997, in Louisville, Kentucky. He grew up in a family that supported his passion for racing, with his father, Joe Rhodes, being involved in the mechanical service industry and sponsoring Ben’s racing efforts. Rhodes began his racing career at the young age of seven, starting in kart racing and quickly moving up through various racing series, including Bandoleros and Legends cars. He attended Holy Cross High School, where he excelled academically, graduating in 2015 with a 3.98 GPA despite his racing commitments.
Path to NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series
Rhodes began his professional racing career in 2004 and made significant strides in the sport over the next several years. After competing in late model stock cars and achieving several wins, he signed with Turner Scott Motorsports in 2013 to race part-time in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East. His impressive performances earned him a spot on the NASCAR Next roster, highlighting his potential as a future star in NASCAR.
In 2014, Rhodes moved full-time to the K&N Pro Series East, where he won the championship, securing five wins and tying a series record with four consecutive victories. This success paved the way for his transition to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, where he debuted in 2014.
Ben Rhodes Career
Early Career (2004-2015)
Rhodes’ early career was marked by his rapid ascent through the ranks of racing. He made his first notable impact in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East, where he claimed the championship in 2014. Following this achievement, he made his debut in the NASCAR Xfinity Series in 2015, sharing a ride with JR Motorsports and finishing seventh in his first race.
In December 2015, Rhodes joined ThorSport Racing to compete full-time in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, driving the No. 41 Toyota Tundra. His first season was challenging, but he showed promise with several top-ten finishes.
NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Breakthrough (2016-2020)
Rhodes’ breakthrough in the Truck Series came in 2017 when he secured his first victory at the Las Vegas 350. This win marked a turning point in his career, as he continued to improve and compete for playoff spots in subsequent seasons. In 2018, he claimed his second career victory at Kentucky Speedway, showcasing his ability to dominate races.
Despite facing challenges in 2019 and 2020, including missed playoff opportunities, Rhodes remained a competitive driver in the series. His resilience and determination were evident as he navigated through ups and downs, ultimately setting the stage for his championship runs.
ThorSport Racing Era (2021-Present)
The 2021 season marked a significant milestone for Rhodes as he won his first NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series championship. He started the season strong with back-to-back victories at Daytona International Speedway and the Daytona Road Course. His consistent performance throughout the season, including two wins and multiple top finishes, solidified his status as a top contender in the series.
In 2023, Rhodes repeated his championship success, further establishing himself as one of the premier drivers in the Truck Series. His ability to perform under pressure and secure crucial wins has made him a formidable competitor.
Race Car Driver Style and Strengths
Rhodes is known for his strategic racing style and strong technical skills. His experience in various racing formats has equipped him with the ability to adapt to different tracks and conditions, making him a versatile driver. His partnership with ThorSport Racing has also contributed to his success, as the team consistently provides competitive equipment.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Rhodes’ career is highlighted by his two NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series championships in 2021 and 2023, as well as his 2014 K&N Pro Series East Championship. His ability to secure multiple wins and consistently perform at a high level has made him a respected figure in the NASCAR community.
Ben Rhodes Career Wins
Rhodes has achieved notable success in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, with a total of seven wins. His victories include significant races that have contributed to his championship titles.
Current NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Highlights
As of 2023, Rhodes has secured seven wins in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, with his most recent victory coming at the North Carolina Education Lottery 200 in Charlotte. His championship wins in 2021 and 2023 highlight his consistency and competitiveness in the series.
Previous NASCAR Series Achievements
Rhodes also made an impact in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East, where he won the championship in 2014. His early career in the series set the foundation for his future successes in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.
Ben Rhodes Family
Family Background and NASCAR Lineage
Ben Rhodes is the son of Lori and Joe Rhodes, who have been supportive of his racing career from a young age. His father’s involvement in the mechanical service industry has provided a strong foundation for Ben’s racing endeavors.
Personal Life
Rhodes graduated from Holy Cross High School in Louisville, Kentucky, and has maintained a balance between his racing career and education. He missed his graduation ceremony to prepare for his Xfinity Series debut, showcasing his commitment to racing.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season has been challenging for Rhodes, with a noticeable decline in performance compared to previous years. He managed to qualify for the playoffs but was eliminated in the first round, finishing ninth in the standings. This marked his first winless season since 2019, highlighting the competitive nature of the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and the need for adjustments moving forward.
