Parker Retzlaff Bio
Early Life and Background
Parker Edward Retzlaff was born on May 21, 2003, in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, where he continues to reside. Growing up in a family that supported his passion for racing, Retzlaff began his journey in motorsports at a young age. He first competed in the Wisconsin Junior Sprints at just nine years old, showcasing his talent early on by winning the mid-season championship.
Retzlaff’s racing career took off as he transitioned through various series, including the Wisconsin Bandolero Series, where he finished third in points in 2013 and won the championship in 2014. His competitive spirit and dedication to the sport laid a strong foundation for his future in racing.
Path to NASCAR
In 2017, Retzlaff ran full-time in the ARCA Midwest Tour, finishing fourteenth in points, and also competed in the Midwest Truck Series. His performance continued to improve, as he finished sixth in the overall standings of the Midwest Truck Series in 2018. These early experiences helped him gain valuable skills and exposure in the world of stock car racing.
Retzlaff made his debut in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East in 2019, where he drove for Visconti Motorsports. His first top-ten finish came at Memphis International Raceway, followed by a fifth-place finish at Gateway Motorsports Park. These early achievements marked his transition into higher levels of competition.
Parker Retzlaff Career
Early Career (2012–2021)
Retzlaff’s career began in 2012, and he quickly made a name for himself in various junior racing series. His notable performances in the Wisconsin Junior Sprints and Bandolero Series set the stage for his future endeavors. In 2020, he signed with Cook-Finley Racing, where he earned five top-ten finishes in the ARCA Menards Series East, solidifying his reputation as a promising young driver.
In 2021, Retzlaff continued to compete in the ARCA Menards Series and made his NASCAR Xfinity Series debut with RSS Racing. Despite facing challenges, he demonstrated resilience and determination, finishing tenth in his second race at the 2022 ToyotaCare 250.
NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Breakthrough (2022–2023)
Retzlaff signed with Jordan Anderson Racing for the 2023 season, driving the No. 31 car full-time. His season opener at Daytona was particularly impressive, where he secured a career-best fourth-place finish. Throughout the season, he achieved one top-five and seven top-ten finishes, concluding the year sixteenth in the standings.
In November 2023, it was announced that Retzlaff would return to Jordan Anderson Racing for the 2024 season. He continued to build on his momentum, scoring his and the team’s first career poles at Richmond and Martinsville, although he finished 21st in the points standings with four top-ten finishes.
Viking Motorsports Era (2026–Present)
In November 2025, Retzlaff announced a move to Viking Motorsports for the 2026 season, where he would drive the No. 99 Chevrolet Camaro SS. This transition marks a significant step in his career as he aims to establish himself further in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. His performance in the early races of the 2026 season will be crucial for building momentum with his new team.
Race Car Driver Style and Strengths
Retzlaff is known for his adaptability and competitive spirit on the track. His experience across various racing series has equipped him with a diverse skill set, allowing him to navigate different racing conditions effectively. His strategic approach and ability to work closely with his team contribute to his growing reputation in the sport.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Throughout his career, Retzlaff has achieved several milestones, including his first top-five finish in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and multiple top-ten finishes in various series. His journey from local racing circuits to national prominence showcases his dedication and talent.
Parker Retzlaff Career Wins
Parker Retzlaff is still in the early stages of his racing career, with no wins recorded in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series or other major series as of now. However, he has demonstrated consistent improvement and potential for future success.
Current NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Highlights
As of the end of the 2023 season, Retzlaff has achieved a total of 13 top-ten finishes in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. His best finish to date is 16th, which he accomplished in 2023. His performance continues to improve as he gains experience and confidence in the series.
Previous NASCAR Series Achievements
In the NASCAR Xfinity Series, Retzlaff’s best finish was fourth at Daytona in 2023. He has also participated in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and ARCA Menards Series, where he has accumulated several top-ten finishes, showcasing his versatility as a driver.
Parker Retzlaff Family
Family Background and NASCAR Lineage
Parker Retzlaff hails from Rhinelander, Wisconsin, where he was raised in a supportive environment that nurtured his passion for racing. While specific details about his family background are not publicly available, his early exposure to motorsports has played a significant role in shaping his career.
Personal Life
Retzlaff enjoys spending his free time playing basketball and working on race cars. He is also an avid fan of NASCAR Cup Series driver Kyle Larson and participates in iRacing simulations to hone his skills. His commitment to both his personal interests and racing reflects his dedication to the sport.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season proved to be a pivotal year for Parker Retzlaff as he continued to establish himself in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. Competing full-time with Viking Motorsports, Retzlaff aimed to improve upon his previous performances. Throughout the season, he demonstrated consistent speed and competitiveness, achieving several top-ten finishes that highlighted his growth as a driver.
As the season progressed, Retzlaff’s ability to adapt to different tracks and conditions became evident, and he worked closely with his team to refine his strategies. His performance placed him in a favorable position for the playoffs, showcasing his potential to contend for a championship in the coming years. The outlook for Retzlaff remains optimistic as he builds on his experiences and strives for success in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.
