Aric Almirola Bio
Early Life and Background
Aric Michael Almirola was born on March 14, 1984, at Eglin Air Force Base in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. He is of Cuban descent and was raised in Tampa, Florida. Almirola began racing go-karts at the age of eight, quickly moving up the ranks in motorsports. By fourteen, he was racing nationally, winning the pole position in his debut at the World Karting Association and finishing fourth in the standings that year. His early success in modified racing earned him several Rookie of the Year awards.
Almirola graduated from Hillsborough High School and later attended the University of Central Florida, where he pursued a degree in mechanical engineering before leaving to focus on his racing career.
Path to NASCAR
In 2002, Almirola transitioned to the NASCAR Sun Belt Weekly Racing Division, finishing second in the Rookie of the Year standings. He made a significant impact in 2004 by joining NASCAR’s Drive for Diversity program and signing with Joe Gibbs Racing as a development driver. He won two races at Ace Speedway that year and continued to build his reputation in the sport. Almirola made his NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series debut in 2005, achieving two top-ten finishes in four races.
By 2007, Almirola was regularly competing in the NASCAR Busch Series, where he won his first career race at the Orbitz 300 at Daytona, although he was later credited with the win after Denny Hamlin took over the car mid-race. His career continued to evolve as he joined various teams, including a stint with Dale Earnhardt, Inc., and later, Richard Petty Motorsports.
Aric Almirola Career
Early Career (2005-2010)
Almirola’s early career was marked by his participation in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and the Busch Series. He achieved his first Truck Series win at Dover International Speedway in 2010, followed by another victory at Michigan International Speedway. His performance in the Truck Series helped him secure a full-time ride in the Sprint Cup Series with Richard Petty Motorsports.
During this period, Almirola faced challenges, including a lack of sponsorship that led to changes in his driving opportunities. Despite these setbacks, he demonstrated resilience and skill, earning a reputation as a competitive driver.
NASCAR Cup Series Breakthrough (2014-2021)
Almirola’s breakthrough came in 2014 when he won the Coke Zero 400 at Daytona International Speedway, marking his first career win in the NASCAR Cup Series. This victory was significant not only for Almirola but also for Richard Petty Motorsports, as it was the first win for the iconic No. 43 car since 1999. His win secured him a spot in the Chase for the Sprint Cup, making him the first Cuban driver to achieve this milestone.
In 2018, Almirola joined Stewart-Haas Racing, where he continued to excel. He finished fifth in the points standings that year, the highest of his career, and secured his second Cup Series win at the 1000Bulbs.com 500. Almirola’s consistency and competitive spirit kept him in the playoff picture for several seasons, including a strong performance in 2021, where he won the NASCAR All-Star Open and the Bluegreen Vacations Duel.
Joe Gibbs Racing Era (2023-Present)
In 2023, Almirola transitioned to Joe Gibbs Racing, driving the No. 19 Toyota GR Supra in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. He has continued to demonstrate his competitive edge, including a notable victory at the Bluegreen Vacations Duel in 2023. Despite his semi-retired status, Almirola’s experience and skill remain valuable assets to his team.
Race Car Driver Style and Strengths
Almirola is known for his strategic approach to racing, often making calculated decisions that enhance his performance on the track. His ability to adapt to various racing conditions and his experience in different series contribute to his effectiveness as a driver.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Throughout his career, Almirola has achieved several significant milestones, including wins at prestigious events such as the Coke Zero 400 and the 1000Bulbs.com 500. His contributions to the sport have also been recognized through his participation in the NASCAR playoffs and his role as a competitive driver in multiple series.
Aric Almirola Career Wins
Almirola has a total of three wins in the NASCAR Cup Series, alongside notable victories in other series, including the NASCAR Xfinity Series and the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. His wins reflect his versatility and competitiveness across different racing formats.
Current NASCAR Xfinity Series Highlights
In the 2023 NASCAR Xfinity Series, Almirola has already secured a victory at the Bluegreen Vacations Duel and continues to compete at a high level. His experience and skill set position him as a strong contender in the series.
Previous NASCAR Cup Series Achievements
Almirola’s previous achievements in the NASCAR Cup Series include his landmark win at the Coke Zero 400 in 2014 and his strong finishes in the standings, including a fifth-place finish in 2018. His consistent performance has made him a respected figure in the sport.
Aric Almirola Family
Family Background and NASCAR Lineage
Almirola’s family has a rich background in motorsports, with his grandfather, Sam Rodriguez, being a dirt sprint car driver. This family connection to racing has influenced Almirola’s career and passion for the sport.
Personal Life
Almirola is married to Janice Almirola, and they have two children together. He has been involved in public service announcements promoting responsible fatherhood, showcasing his commitment to family and community.
2025 Season Performance
As of the 2025 season, Almirola has returned to the NASCAR Xfinity Series, competing part-time for Joe Gibbs Racing. His performance has been marked by a notable victory at Martinsville, where he also earned a bonus for winning the Dash 4 Cash race. Despite facing challenges, including a suspension due to a team dispute, Almirola has demonstrated resilience and competitiveness, securing multiple wins and strong finishes throughout the season. His experience continues to be an asset as he navigates the complexities of racing in the Xfinity Series.
