Carson Ware Bio
Carson Reed Ware is an American professional stock car racing driver born February 28, 2000, in Jamestown, North Carolina. He last competed part-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, driving the No. 74 Chevrolet Camaro SS for Mike Harmon Racing, the No. 07 Chevrolet Camaro SS for SS-Green Light Racing, and the No. 35 Ford Mustang Dark Horse for Joey Gase Motorsports with Scott Osteen. Ware has also competed in the ARCA Menards Series and NASCAR Gander Outdoors Truck Series. He is the son of Rick Ware Racing team owner Rick Ware and brother of NASCAR driver Cody Ware.
Early Life and Background
Carson Reed Ware was born on February 28, 2000, in Jamestown, North Carolina. He comes from a racing family as the son of Rick Ware, owner of Rick Ware Racing, and brother of fellow NASCAR competitor Cody Ware. Growing up around the motorsports environment gave him early exposure to stock car racing and the operations of a professional racing team.
Before advancing to NASCAR and ARCA competition, Ware developed his driving skills in Pro Late Model racing. This formative racing experience provided him with essential track knowledge and racing fundamentals that would serve as the foundation for his transition to national series competition.
Path to NASCAR
Ware’s path to NASCAR began with his work in Pro Late Models, where he honed his skills before stepping up to major racing series. In October 2019, he made his ARCA Menards Series debut at Kansas Speedway driving for Rick Ware Racing in a partnership with Venturini Motorsports. The following month, he joined Reaume Brothers Racing for his first NASCAR Gander Outdoors Truck Series start at the Lucas Oil 150 at ISM Raceway.
His progression continued into the NASCAR Xfinity Series in May 2020, when he made his debut at Bristol Motor Speedway with SS-Green Light Racing. This team had formed an alliance with Rick Ware Racing to run the No. 07 car for Ware and other RWR drivers, marking his entry into NASCAR’s second-tier national series.
Carson Ware Career
Early Career (2019-2020)
Carson Ware began his national series racing career in 2019 with a dual approach to multiple racing disciplines. His ARCA debut came at Kansas Speedway in October with Rick Ware Racing and Venturini Motorsports. Shortly after, in November 2019, he made his first NASCAR Gander Outdoors Truck Series start with Reaume Brothers Racing at the Lucas Oil 150 at ISM Raceway, gaining valuable experience in NASCAR’s truck division.
Building on this foundation, Ware expanded his racing portfolio in 2020 by entering the NASCAR Xfinity Series. His debut came at Bristol Motor Speedway in May with SS-Green Light Racing, marking his entry into NASCAR’s second-highest level of competition. This early period established his presence across multiple NASCAR series while developing his skills at various track types and racing conditions.
NASCAR Xfinity Series Development (2020-2021)
Ware continued his Xfinity Series development throughout 2021, driving multiple entries including the Nos. 17 and 52 for Rick Ware Racing. He also competed for Mike Harmon Racing in the No. 74 at Darlington Raceway, demonstrating his versatility by working with different teams and equipment. This period allowed him to gain experience across various tracks while building relationships within the racing community.
Return to Competition (2024)
After a suspension from NASCAR competition, Ware returned to the track in 2024. His comeback came with Joey Gase Motorsports at Bristol Motor Speedway, followed by additional races at Talladega Superspeedway and Martinsville Speedway. These starts marked his return to NASCAR competition after serving his suspension period.
Driving Style and Strengths
Ware’s racing background in Pro Late Models provided him with fundamental skills applicable to NASCAR competition. His experience across multiple series including ARCA, Truck, and Xfinity demonstrates adaptability to different vehicle setups and racing conditions. Working with various teams throughout his career has required flexibility in adjusting to different equipment and crew chief approaches.
Carson Ware Career Wins
Carson Ware scored his first career CARS Tour victory on May 3, 2025, at Ace Speedway in a rain-shortened race. This win marked a significant milestone in his racing career, showcasing his ability to compete and win in touring series competition. His victory came through challenging conditions and highlighted his capability to perform when racing opportunities arise.
2025 Season Performance
Ware’s 2025 season began with his return to Mike Harmon Racing for the season opener at Daytona International Speedway, where he failed to qualify. He finished 32nd for the team at Atlanta Motor Speedway. Later in the season, he competed at Martinsville for SS-Green Light Racing, finishing 30th. The highlight of his 2025 campaign came on May 3 at Ace Speedway, where he secured his first career CARS Tour win in a rain-shortened event, demonstrating continued progress in his racing development.
Carson Ware Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Carson Ware is the son of Rick Ware, owner of Rick Ware Racing, a prominent NASCAR team organization. He is also the brother of Cody Ware, who competes as a NASCAR driver. This deep family involvement in motorsports has provided Ware with extensive exposure to the racing industry from an early age, influencing his career path and development as a professional driver.
Personal Life
In October 2021, Ware faced legal challenges when he was arrested in Rowan County, North Carolina, on assault and property damage charges. NASCAR responded with an indefinite suspension following the arrest. On June 8, 2022, NASCAR lifted Ware’s suspension, allowing him to return to competition. This period significantly impacted his racing career timeline and opportunities.
