Corey LaJoie’s NASCAR future is at a turning point as he navigates the end of his full-time run in the Cup Series and considers what lies ahead. After competing at NASCAR’s top level since 2017, LaJoie was released early from his contract with Spire Motorsports in 2024, leaving him to explore new options while still racing in the Truck Series this fall.
Reflecting on His NASCAR Career and Upcoming Decisions
LaJoie has built a reputation for resilience and determination in NASCAR, traits essential to lasting in the sport’s demanding environment. Yet as his current situation with Spire Motorsports shifts, he is openly evaluating what comes next in his career. During an episode of his podcast, Stacking Pennies, LaJoie shared candid thoughts about his ambitions and frustrations, signaling a clear reorientation of his priorities.
“I’ll entertain Daytona 500 offers because I think I can compete for a win in a decent car there,”
LaJoie said, showing confidence in his ability to make an impact in one of racing’s biggest events. Having previously earned his place in the storied race through hard work, he sees this as a practical avenue worth pursuing.
He added,
“You could also make about a year’s worth of pay in one week. So, I’ll look at that.”
The financial incentive is significant, particularly when full-time opportunities are uncertain, but LaJoie’s enthusiasm for competing regularly has waned.
Challenges and Frustrations with Truck Series Drives
Despite continuing to race in the Truck Series, LaJoie admitted his passion for that level of competition has diminished. He described driving trucks as less enjoyable and expressed frustration with the politics and technical difficulties that often accompany the series.
“Trucks aren’t particularly fun to drive,”
he stated plainly, dispensing with traditional niceties.
“But yeah, like Truck Series offers, I’m not entertaining.”
He likened the experience to
“smashing my head up against the wall, metaphorically,”
capturing the exhausting nature of dealing with behind-the-scenes tensions and equipment struggles.
Searching for Viable Opportunities Amid NASCAR’s Tough Market
Though LaJoie still aspires to secure a spot in the Cup Series, he recognizes the scarcity of openings. He acknowledged the harsh economic realities where seats are often given to less expensive drivers who provide comparable performance.
“You get out of them, you lose your seat. The music stops, and they plug somebody else that’s cheaper and comparable, that can do the same job,”
he explained, illustrating the relentless competition and turnover faced by drivers.
As offers have not materialized to his expectations, LaJoie is taking steps to prepare for alternate career paths. He has begun working on broadcast duties, lending his insights to Amazon Prime Sports’ pre- and post-race programs, discovering a new enthusiasm for this role.
He shared, “I like doing TV,” suggesting this could be more than a temporary sideline.
Additionally, LaJoie has considered entrepreneurial ventures such as launching a carbon fiber business, which would let him maintain a connection to motorsports while pursuing his own interests.
“If I had a really good opportunity call, then sure, I’ll entertain the conversation,”
he said.
“But there’s like 10 other things that I could be doing right now to start what the next chapter looks like, and I think I’m going to start focusing on that.”
Moving Forward Beyond the Driver’s Seat
Corey LaJoie’s situation reflects the realities many drivers face as competitive careers evolve or conclude. He is not stepping away from NASCAR completely but is instead channeling his experience into new ventures and roles that leverage his knowledge and presence within the sport. Whether it’s one final run in the Daytona 500 or building a post-driving career in media and business, LaJoie is thoughtfully planning his next phase.
His approach signals a pragmatic, determined mindset poised to turn transition into opportunity—defining the future of a driver who has always been a fighter on the track.
