Jack Perkins Bio
Early Life and Background
Jack Perkins was born on August 22, 1986, in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. He comes from a prominent racing family, being the son of retired Australian race driver and former team owner Larry Perkins. His grandfather, Eddie Perkins, and grand-uncle, George Reynolds, also have notable connections to motorsports, which likely influenced Jack’s early exposure to racing. Growing up in this environment, he developed a passion for motorsports from a young age.
Path to NASCAR
Jack Perkins began his racing career in the Fujitsu Development Series in 2006, driving for his father’s team, Perkins Engineering. Initially competing as an endurance race-only driver, he made a significant leap in 2007 when he graduated to a full-time drive in the No. 11 Perkins Engineering car, a number made famous by his father in Australian racing. His early achievements included a commendable third-place finish in the championship standings during his debut season.
Jack Perkins Career
Early Career (2006-2008)
Perkins’ early career was marked by his participation in the Fujitsu Development Series, where he drove the No. 78 car for Perkins Engineering. Despite facing challenges, including a diagnosis of Type One Diabetes that impacted his performance, he managed to secure a third-place finish in the championship standings in 2006. In 2007, he transitioned to a full-time role in the main series, where he faced the pressures of competing at a higher level.
Supercars Championship Breakthrough (2009-2014)
In 2009, Perkins returned to the main V8 Supercar championship with Kelly Racing, driving the No. 11 Commodore. However, the season proved disappointing, and he was not retained for 2010. After a brief hiatus, he returned to the second-tier Fujitsu V8 Supercar Series, where he showcased strong performances that earned him a call-up for endurance races with James Rosenberg Racing and later with Paul Morris Motorsport. His notable achievements during this period included a podium finish at the Gold Coast 600 in 2015.
Blanchard Racing Team Era (2021-Present)
Currently, Jack Perkins co-drives with James Courtney in the No. 7 Ford Mustang for Blanchard Racing Team in the Pirtek Enduro Cup. His experience and familiarity with endurance racing have made him a valuable asset to the team. As of the 2024 season, Perkins has participated in 157 races in the Supercars Championship, securing one win and three podium finishes.
Race Car Driver Style and Strengths
Jack Perkins is known for his strategic approach to racing, leveraging his extensive knowledge of the sport and his family’s legacy. His endurance racing experience allows him to maintain composure under pressure, making him a reliable co-driver in high-stakes situations.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Throughout his career, Perkins has achieved significant milestones, including his first podium finish in the Bathurst 1000 in 2019. His ability to overcome personal challenges, such as managing Type One Diabetes, has also made him a spokesperson for diabetes awareness, further enhancing his profile in the motorsports community.
Jack Perkins Career Wins
Jack Perkins has secured one win in the Supercars Championship throughout his career, alongside three podium finishes. His journey through various teams and series has showcased his resilience and adaptability as a race car driver.
Current Supercars Championship Highlights
In the 2024 season, Perkins has continued to demonstrate his capabilities, finishing with a total of 186 points and positioning himself 47th in the championship standings. His most notable recent performance includes a strong showing at the Gold Coast 600, where he and his co-driver secured a podium finish.
Previous Supercars Championship Achievements
Before joining Blanchard Racing Team, Perkins had a successful stint with various teams, including Kelly Racing and Paul Morris Motorsport. His career highlights include multiple top-ten finishes and a notable performance at the Bathurst 1000, where he finished on the podium in 2019.
Jack Perkins Family
Family Background and NASCAR Lineage
Jack Perkins comes from a distinguished racing family, with his father, Larry Perkins, being a well-respected figure in Australian motorsports. This lineage has provided Jack with a unique perspective on the sport and has influenced his racing career significantly.
Personal Life
While specific details about Jack Perkins’ personal life remain private, his advocacy for diabetes awareness highlights his commitment to using his platform for positive change. He has actively participated in events to raise funds for diabetes research and support organizations.
2025 Season Performance
As Jack Perkins prepares for his NASCAR debut in 2025, he is set to drive for Joe Gibbs Racing in the Xfinity Series. His transition to NASCAR marks a significant step in his career, and expectations are high as he aims to establish himself in this competitive environment. The upcoming season will be crucial for Perkins as he seeks to build on his endurance racing experience and make a name for himself in the NASCAR landscape.
