JJ Yeley

Christopher Beltram Hernandez “J.J.” Yeley is an American professional stock car racing driver known for his extensive and versatile career in NASCAR. He currently competes part-time in the NASCAR Cup Series, driving the No. 44 Chevrolet Camaro for NY Racing Team, and also races part-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, piloting the No. 29 Ford Mustang for RSS Racing. Yeley is notable for his longevity and experience across multiple motorsports disciplines, including USAC and IndyCar, and holds distinctions such as winning the USAC Triple Crown.

Early Life and Background

J.J. Yeley was born on October 5, 1976, in Phoenix, Arizona. He was nicknamed “Jimmy Jack,” often shortened to “J.J.,” a tribute to his grandfather and a close family friend. Yeley began his racing career in quarter midget cars and swiftly advanced through the ranks of the United States Auto Club (USAC), where he achieved significant success early on. His family background in racing influenced his early interest and development in motorsports.

Career

Yeley established himself as a top open-wheel racer, becoming just the second driver after Tony Stewart to win the USAC Triple Crown in a single season (2003), capturing the National Sprint Car, Silver Crown, and National Midget Series titles. He holds a USAC record for 24 wins in one season, surpassing prior records.

Transitioning to stock car racing, Yeley signed with Joe Gibbs Racing in 2004, competing full seasons in both the NASCAR Busch (now Xfinity) Series and the Nextel Cup (now Cup) Series. His career in NASCAR spans nearly 600 races across the top three divisions, with 314 Xfinity races and 276 Cup races. While he has not secured a race win, Yeley has earned four pole positions, eight top-10 finishes in Cup, 46 top-10s in Xfinity, including four second-place finishes and multiple third-place podiums throughout his career.

Yeley’s best Cup finish was second place in 2007, and top-10 finishes highlight his competitive consistency. He has driven for numerous teams over his career, including Joe Gibbs Racing, BK Racing, MBM Motorsports, Rick Ware Racing, and currently NY Racing Team and RSS Racing. In 2022 and beyond, he attempted the Daytona 500 and maintained a presence across NASCAR’s national series, achieving an eighth-place finish at Portland in the Xfinity Series and notable top-10 finishes into 2023 and 2024.

Off-Track Ventures

Information about Yeley’s business ventures, endorsements, or philanthropic activities is limited in public sources. He maintains a professional media presence primarily through racing-related interviews and engagements, focusing on his career and motorsport involvement.

Net Worth

Estimated net worth is $2 million.

Family Life

J.J. Yeley, born Christopher Beltram Yeley, is the son of “Cactus” Jack Yeley, a seven-time Arizona Midget Racing Association champion. He is married to Kristen Yeley, and they have a daughter named Faith Anne. Yeley was born on October 5, 1976, in Phoenix, Arizona.

Recent Controversies (if any)

There are no widely reported recent controversies involving J.J. Yeley.

Key Highlights from Season 2024 and 2025

• 2024: Yeley competed part-time in the NASCAR Cup Series with NY Racing Team, driving the No. 44 Chevrolet, featuring sponsorship from Green River Whiskey. Although not capturing victories, he maintained a solid presence in the field, continuing to race selectively in the NASCAR Xfinity Series with RSS Racing, achieving consistent finishes and contributing veteran experience to his teams.
• 1 August 2025: Yeley remains an active competitor in NASCAR’s national series, participating part-time in both the Cup Series and Xfinity Series. He continues driving the No. 44 car for NY Racing Team and the No. 29 for RSS Racing. His sustained career and sponsorship support reflect his role as an experienced driver and valuable team member in the current NASCAR landscape.