Image of Derek Kraus
Image of Driver Derek Kraus

Driver Information

Derek Kenneth Kraus (born September 1, 2001) is an American professional stock car racing driver. He last competed part-time in the NASCAR Cup Series, driving the No. 44 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for NY Racing Team. He has also previously competed in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, ARCA Menards Series, and ARCA Menards Series East and West. He won the 2019 West Series championship (when the series was known as the NASCAR K&N Pro Series West) and is also a former NASCAR Next member. He is also a simulator driver for Kaulig Racing.
Full Name:
Derek Kenneth Kraus
Date of Birth:
01 September 2001
Place of Birth:
Stratford, Wisconsin, USA
Nationality:
United States
Residence:
Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
Gender:
Male
Education:
Stratford High School
Profession:
Professional Racing Driver
Career Started (Year):
2017
Notable Achievements:
NASCAR K&N Pro Series West Champion (Years - 2019)
Awards:
NASCAR K&N Pro Series West Rookie of the Year (Year - 2017)
Primary Series:
NASCAR Cup Series
Team:
NY Racing Team
Car Number:
44
Car Model:
Camaro ZL1
Net Worth:
$1.0 Million

Derek Kraus

Derek Kraus Bio

Early Life and Background

Derek Kenneth Kraus was born on September 1, 2001, in Stratford, Wisconsin, U.S. He began his journey in motorsports at a young age, racing in go-karts and bandoleros. His early achievements include winning the GSR Kartway championship in 2012 and 2013, as well as the State Park Speedway championship in 2013. Kraus attended Stratford High School, where he was also a member of the wrestling team and played football during his freshman year.

Path to NASCAR

Kraus’s racing career took off when he began competing in various series, including the Midwest trucks and super late models. He made headlines in 2016 by becoming the youngest driver to win a race in the ARCA Midwest Tour. In 2017, he transitioned to the NASCAR K&N Pro Series West, driving for Bill McAnally Racing, where he quickly established himself as a promising talent by winning the Rookie of the Year award.

Derek Kraus Career

Early Career (2017-2018)

Kraus made his debut in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series West in 2017, finishing third in his first race at New Smyrna Speedway. He secured his first victory at Kern County Raceway Park later that season, which helped him earn the Rookie of the Year title. In 2018, he continued to impress, winning multiple races and finishing fourth in the overall standings.

NASCAR K&N Pro Series West Breakthrough (2019)

In 2019, Kraus had a breakout season in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series West, winning the championship. He began the year with a strong performance at New Smyrna, followed by victories at Tucson Speedway and Douglas County Speedway. His consistent finishes and ability to lead races culminated in clinching the championship by finishing third in the season finale at ISM Raceway.

Current Team Era (2024-Present)

Kraus transitioned to the NASCAR Cup Series in 2024, driving the No. 44 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 for NY Racing Team. His first race in the Cup Series was the Pennzoil 400 at Las Vegas, where he finished 39th. In 2025, he faced challenges, including a fire incident during the Cook Out Southern 500, but continues to work on improving his performance.

Race Car Driver Style and Strengths

Kraus is known for his adaptability and skill in various racing conditions. His experience across different series has honed his craft, making him a strategic driver capable of navigating complex race scenarios.

Notable Achievements and Milestones

Kraus’s notable achievements include winning the 2019 NASCAR K&N Pro Series West Championship and being named the 2017 Rookie of the Year in the same series. His early success in go-karts and late models set the foundation for a promising career in NASCAR.

Derek Kraus Career Wins

Derek Kraus has achieved significant success in his racing career, particularly in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series West, where he secured a total of 10 wins. His experience spans several series, including the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and ARCA Menards Series.

Current NASCAR Cup Series Highlights

As of 2025, Kraus has not yet secured a win in the NASCAR Cup Series. His best finish was 32nd at the Coca-Cola 600. He continues to seek opportunities to improve his standings and gain valuable experience in the series.

Previous NASCAR Series Achievements

In the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, Kraus has recorded 27 top-ten finishes, with his best finish being 11th in both 2020 and 2022. In the ARCA Menards Series East, he achieved three wins, while in the West Series, he dominated with 10 victories, culminating in a championship title in 2019.

Derek Kraus Family

Family Background and NASCAR Lineage

Kraus comes from a family with a racing background; his father, Mark Kraus, raced super late models in the 2000s. This familial connection to racing has influenced Derek’s career path and passion for motorsports.

Personal Life

Kraus graduated from Stratford High School in 2020. He moved to Charlotte, North Carolina, to be closer to the NASCAR community and teams, balancing his racing career with personal commitments.

2025 Season Performance

The 2025 season has been a challenging one for Derek Kraus as he competes part-time in the NASCAR Cup Series. He has faced difficulties, including a fire incident during the Cook Out Southern 500, which impacted his performance. Despite these setbacks, Kraus remains focused on improving his results and gaining experience in the Cup Series, with hopes of achieving better finishes as the season progresses.