Riley Dederick Kern Herbst, born February 24, 1999, in Las Vegas, Nevada, is an accomplished American professional stock car racing driver. As of 2025, Herbst competes full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series, driving the No. 35 Toyota Camry XSE for 23XI Racing, and part-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, driving the No. 19 Toyota GR Supra for Joe Gibbs Racing. Known for his versatility, consistency, and rapid rise through NASCAR’s national series, Herbst continues to establish himself as a driver to watch in the coming seasons.
Early Life and Background
Born into a racing family, Herbst began kart racing at the age of five, progressing through speed trucks and super late models. His early success included competing for Bill McAnally Racing in ARCA West and East in 2016, where he demonstrated strong performances with several top-five finishes. In 2017, Herbst joined Joe Gibbs Racing in ARCA, securing a win and multiple top-five finishes while earning Rookie of the Year honors in the ARCA Menards Series.
Career
Herbst’s career accelerated as he transitioned to NASCAR’s national series. He made his NASCAR Xfinity Series debut in 2018, impressing with his driving acumen and improving racecraft. Simultaneously, he competed in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series from 2018 through 2023, showcasing versatility despite not securing a win in the series. He consistently delivered solid performances, including memorable battles at superspeedways such as Talladega.
In 2023, Herbst made his NASCAR Cup Series debut with Rick Ware Racing’s No. 15 Ford, finishing tenth in the Daytona 500 and becoming one of only five drivers in NASCAR history to record top-10 finishes in their first Cup, Xfinity, and Truck Series starts. Building on this success, he secured a full-time Cup Series ride with 23XI Racing in 2024, piloting the No. 35 Toyota Camry XSE. His debut season with the team included several top-10 finishes, further proving his competitive potential.
Off-Track Ventures
Herbst keeps a relatively low profile outside of racing but participates in charitable initiatives and community outreach programs. While his public business ventures are limited, he is recognized for his professionalism, focus on career growth, and positive representation of his sponsors.
Net Worth
Herbst’s estimated net worth is $500,000 as of 2025, primarily earned through his NASCAR contracts, race winnings, and sponsorship agreements.
Family Life
Riley Herbst comes from a strong racing lineage, with his father, Troy Herbst, a seven-time off-road champion, and his mother, Laura Sosey Herbst, supporting his career from an early age. Herbst is currently not publicly linked to a spouse or children.
Recent Controversies
Herbst has maintained a clean record throughout his career, with no significant controversies reported. His reputation centers on professionalism, determination, and steady progress in NASCAR’s top divisions.
Key Highlights from Season 2024 and 2025
In 2024, Herbst delivered consistent performances in the NASCAR Cup Series with 23XI Racing, scoring multiple top-10 finishes and showcasing competitive speed at various track types.
As of 1 August 2025, Herbst continues his full-time Cup Series campaign while running part-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series with Joe Gibbs Racing, aiming to secure his first Cup Series win and solidify his position as a rising star in NASCAR’s elite ranks.
