Cody Ware Bio
Early Life and Background
Cody Shane Ware, born on November 7, 1995, in Greensboro, North Carolina, is an American professional auto racing driver. He is a third-generation racer, following in the footsteps of his father, Rick Ware, who is a NASCAR team owner. Growing up in a racing family, Cody was exposed to motorsports from an early age, which shaped his passion for racing.
Path to NASCAR Cup Series
Ware began his racing career in 2014, competing in the Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America series, where he earned Rookie of the Year honors. His early racing experiences included various series, such as the Asian Le Mans Series, where he achieved notable success, including a second-place finish in his first race with Rick Ware Racing. These formative years laid the groundwork for his transition to the NASCAR Cup Series.
Cody Ware Career
Early Career (2014–2016)
Cody Ware made his debut in the NASCAR Nationwide Series in August 2014 at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, finishing fifteenth. He competed in multiple series over the next few years, including the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and the NASCAR Xfinity Series. In 2016, he attempted to make his Sprint Cup Series debut but failed to qualify for the Toyota/Save Mart 350 at Sonoma Raceway.
NASCAR Cup Series Breakthrough (2017–2020)
Ware joined Rick Ware Racing’s Cup Series program in 2017, making his official debut at the Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500 in Atlanta, where he finished 39th. He faced challenges early in his career, including health issues that affected his performance. However, he gradually increased his participation in the Cup Series, culminating in his first top-twenty finish in the 2020 YellaWood 500 at Talladega Superspeedway, where he finished nineteenth.
Rick Ware Racing Era (2021–Present)
In 2021, Ware was announced as a full-time driver for Rick Ware Racing, driving the No. 51 Ford Mustang Dark Horse. His 2021 season included notable incidents, such as a crash involving teammate James Davison and a health-related absence during the Richmond playoff race. Despite these challenges, he returned for the 2022 season, achieving a career-best sixth-place finish at the 2022 Coke Zero Sugar 400.
Race Car Driver Style and Strengths
Cody Ware is known for his resilience and adaptability on the track. His diverse racing background allows him to approach each race with a unique strategy, leveraging his experience in both stock car and sports car racing.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Ware’s career milestones include earning the Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America Rookie of the Year award in 2014 and achieving his first top-ten finish in the NASCAR Cup Series at the 2022 Coke Zero Sugar 400.
Cody Ware Career Wins
Cody Ware has not yet secured any wins in the NASCAR Cup Series, but he has shown potential with multiple top-ten finishes across various series.
Current NASCAR Cup Series Highlights
As of the 2025 season, Ware has participated in all 36 races, with a career-best fourth-place finish at the 2024 Coke Zero Sugar 400. He has demonstrated consistent improvement and resilience, contributing to his team’s overall performance.
Previous NASCAR Series Achievements
In the NASCAR Xfinity Series, Ware recorded his first top-ten finish in 2020 and has competed in multiple races across different teams, showcasing his versatility and determination.
Cody Ware Family
Family Background and NASCAR Lineage
Cody Ware is part of a racing family, with his father, Rick Ware, owning a NASCAR team. His family’s involvement in motorsports has significantly influenced his career path.
Personal Life
Ware has been open about his struggles with mental health, including depression and anxiety, and has shared his experiences with Asperger syndrome. He has also faced personal challenges, including legal issues that led to a temporary suspension from NASCAR in 2023, though he was reinstated in December of the same year.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season marks a pivotal year for Cody Ware as he returns to full-time competition in the NASCAR Cup Series. After a strong showing in the previous season, he aims to build on his momentum. His performance has been characterized by consistent finishes and increased competitiveness, particularly highlighted by his fourth-place finish at the 2024 Coke Zero Sugar 400. As the season progresses, Ware’s focus will be on securing more top finishes and continuing to develop as a driver under the Rick Ware Racing banner.
