Erik Jones Bio
Early Life and Background
Erik Benjamin Jones was born on May 30, 1996, in Byron, Michigan, United States. He grew up in a family that encouraged his passion for racing, which began at the young age of seven when he started competing in quarter-midget racing. By the age of 13, he transitioned to stock car racing, making significant strides in the sport early on. Jones attended Swartz Creek Academy, where he graduated before pursuing his racing career full-time.
Path to NASCAR
Jones began his ascent in the racing world by competing in the ASA Late Model Series in 2010, where he made history as the youngest winner of the Oktoberfest race at LaCrosse Fairgrounds Speedway. In 2011, he won the CRA JEGS All-Star Tour Championship in his rookie year, showcasing his talent and determination. His success in lower-tier series led him to the NASCAR ranks, where he made his debut in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series in 2013.
Erik Jones Career
Early Career (2012-2015)
Jones started his professional racing career in the ARCA Racing Series in 2012, becoming the youngest driver to compete in the series at just 15 years old. He achieved his first ARCA win in 2013 at Berlin Raceway. His breakthrough came in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, where he won the championship in 2015, solidifying his status as a rising star in the sport.
NASCAR Cup Series Breakthrough (2017-2018)
Jones made his official debut in the NASCAR Cup Series in 2015, but it was in 2017 that he began to make a name for himself, driving for Furniture Row Racing. He secured his first Cup Series win at the 2018 Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway, marking a significant milestone in his career. This victory not only earned him a spot in the playoffs but also showcased his ability to compete at the highest level.
Legacy Motor Club Era (2021-Present)
In 2021, Jones joined Legacy Motor Club, taking over the iconic No. 43 Toyota Camry. He continued to build on his success, winning the 2022 Southern 500, which was a historic win for both him and the team. As of the 2025 season, Jones has established himself as a consistent competitor, finishing 27th in the standings with notable performances, including multiple top-ten finishes.
Race Car Driver Style and Strengths
Jones is known for his aggressive driving style and strategic racecraft, often making bold moves on the track. His ability to adapt to various racing conditions and his experience across different series have contributed to his success in the NASCAR Cup Series.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Jones has achieved several significant milestones, including being the first driver to win Rookie of the Year honors in all three NASCAR national series. His championship win in the 2015 NASCAR Camping World Truck Series and victories in prestigious races like the Southern 500 highlight his talent and determination.
Erik Jones Career Wins
Erik Jones has accumulated a total of three wins in the NASCAR Cup Series, alongside numerous victories in other series, including seven wins in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and nine wins in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. His consistent performance across various racing platforms has established him as a formidable competitor.
Current NASCAR Cup Series Highlights
In the current NASCAR Cup Series, Jones has secured three wins, with his most recent victory at the 2022 Cook Out Southern 500. He has also achieved multiple top-ten finishes, showcasing his competitiveness and skill on the track.
Previous NASCAR Series Achievements
In the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, Jones won seven races, including the championship in 2015. In the NASCAR Xfinity Series, he has nine wins, with notable performances that have solidified his reputation as a top contender in the sport.
Erik Jones Family
Family Background and NASCAR Lineage
Erik Jones comes from a supportive family that has encouraged his racing ambitions from a young age. His journey in motorsports has been marked by significant achievements, reflecting the dedication and passion that runs in his family.
Personal Life
Jones is married to fellow race car driver Holly Shelton, with whom he shares a strong bond. He is also an avid reader, hosting a book club called Erik’s Reading Circle, where he engages with fans and shares his love for literature.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season has been a challenging one for Erik Jones, who started with a twelfth-place finish at the Daytona 500. Following a disqualification after the Martinsville race, he faced setbacks but managed to secure a few top finishes. Despite the struggles, Jones remains a key figure for Legacy Motor Club, and his resilience and experience will be crucial as the season progresses. With a focus on improving results, he aims to capitalize on upcoming races and build momentum for the remainder of the year.
