Matt Kenseth

Matthew Roy Kenseth, known as Matt Kenseth, is an American professional stock car racing driver widely recognized for his impact on NASCAR. He gained fame as a consistent and competitive driver with 39 Cup Series victories, including the 2003 NASCAR Winston Cup Championship, and remains a prominent figure in motorsports.
Early Life and Background
Matt Kenseth was born on March 10, 1972, in Cambridge, Wisconsin. He comes from a racing family background, where his early exposure to motorsport came through local short track racing. Kenseth started racing go-karts at the age of 10 and gradually progressed through late model circuits in Wisconsin and the Midwest. His early competitive success in Regional and ARCA Series racing paved the way for his NASCAR career.
Career
Kenseth made his NASCAR debut in 1998 and quickly rose through the ranks with Roush Racing. His breakthrough came with his 2003 NASCAR Winston Cup Series championship, helped by his consistent performance and ability to accumulate points through steady top finishes. Kenseth won notable races including two Daytona 500 victories (2009 and 2012). Over his career, Kenseth secured 39 Cup wins and 202 top-ten finishes in the Xfinity Series with 29 wins.
In 2013, Kenseth left Roush Fenway Racing to join Joe Gibbs Racing, where he continued to compete at a high level, winning multiple races and remaining a playoff contender. He briefly retired after the 2017 season but returned mid-2020 to replace Kyle Larson at Chip Ganassi Racing following Larson’s suspension. Kenseth also competed in the Superstar Racing Experience (SRX) series and has remained active in racing advisories. Late 2024 saw Kenseth reuniting with Roush Fenway Racing as a competition advisor and returning to drive part-time, demonstrating his ongoing involvement in NASCAR.
Off-Track Ventures
Kenseth is involved in several business ventures, including a Chevrolet auto dealership in Wisconsin. He has been an ambassador for NASCAR through media appearances and promotional events. Kenseth also participates in charity work, supporting organizations related to racing and community development.
Net Worth
Matt Kenseth’s estimated net worth is $25 million.
Family Life
Matt Kenseth is the son of Roy and Nicola Sue Kenseth. He is married to Katie Martin, and they have five children: Ross, Kaylin, Grace, Clara, and Mallory.
Recent Controversies
There are no widely reported recent controversies involving Matt Kenseth.
Key Highlights from Season 2024 and 2025
- 2024: Kenseth competed in select races and took on advisory roles within Roush Fenway Racing, including limited starts piloting the No. 6 Ford Fusion with new sponsorship from Wyndham Rewards. He remained competitive and contributed to team development and strategy.
- 1 August 2025: Kenseth continues as a competition advisor for Roush Fenway Racing and occasionally races in NASCAR’s part-time events or the SRX series, balancing his role between mentoring and active competition.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Matthew Roy Kenseth |
| Birth Place | Cambridge, Wisconsin, USA |
| Birth Date | March 10, 1972 |
| Height | 5 ft 11 in (180 cm) |
| Weight | 185 lbs (84 kg) |
| Parents | Roy Kenseth (Father), Nicola Sue Kenseth (Mother) |
| Nationality | American |
| Net Worth | $25 million (estimated) |
| Salary | Not publicly disclosed |
| Relationship/Spouse | Married to Katie Martin Kenseth |
| Children | Ross, Kaylin, Grace, Clara, Mallory |
| Profession | Professional Stock Car Racing Driver, Competition Advisor |
| Team | Formerly Roush Fenway Racing, Joe Gibbs Racing, Chip Ganassi Racing; Advisor for Roush Fenway Racing |

