Cody Ware Bio
Early Life and Background
Cody Shane Ware was born on November 7, 1995, in Greensboro, North Carolina, USA. He is a third-generation driver, with his father, Rick Ware, being a NASCAR team owner. This familial connection to racing provided Cody with early exposure to the sport, fostering his passion for auto racing from a young age.
Path to NASCAR Cup Series
Ware began his racing career in 2014, competing in the Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America series, where he earned Rookie of the Year honors. Over the years, he participated in various racing series, including the Asian Le Mans Series and the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, which helped him build a diverse racing portfolio. His transition to the NASCAR Cup Series came in 2017 when he made his debut driving for Rick Ware Racing.
Cody Ware Career
Early Career (2014–2016)
Cody Ware’s early career was marked by his participation in the Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America series, where he achieved significant recognition. He made his NASCAR debut in the Nationwide Series in 2014 at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, finishing 15th. He also competed in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, although he faced challenges that led him to step away from full-time racing to focus on his education.
NASCAR Cup Series Breakthrough (2017–2020)
Ware made his NASCAR Cup Series debut in 2017 at the Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500 in Atlanta, where he faced difficulties but gained valuable experience. In 2020, he had a notable moment during the YellaWood 500 at Talladega Superspeedway, where he finished 19th, marking his first top-twenty finish in the Cup Series. His performance continued to improve, and he became a full-time driver for Rick Ware Racing in 2021.
Rick Ware Racing Era (2021–Present)
In 2021, Cody Ware was announced as a full-time driver for Rick Ware Racing, driving the No. 51 Ford Mustang Dark Horse. He faced a challenging season, including incidents that led to health issues, but he showed resilience and determination. In 2022, he achieved his first career top-ten finish with a sixth-place result at the Coke Zero Sugar 400. As of 2025, Ware continues to compete full-time in the NASCAR Cup Series, having completed all 36 races of the season.
Race Car Driver Style and Strengths
Cody Ware is known for his adaptability across various racing disciplines, showcasing skills in stock car, sports car, and open-wheel racing. His strategic approach to racing, combined with his experience, allows him to navigate complex race situations effectively.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Ware’s career highlights include earning the Lamborghini Super Trofeo North America Rookie of the Year award in 2014 and achieving his first top-ten finish in the NASCAR Cup Series in 2022. His journey reflects a commitment to overcoming challenges and achieving success in a highly competitive environment.
Cody Ware Career Wins
Cody Ware has yet to secure a win in the NASCAR Cup Series; however, he has accumulated experience across multiple series, including the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series and the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
Current NASCAR Cup Series Highlights
As of 2025, Ware has participated in multiple races, with a best finish of sixth in the 2022 season. He has shown consistent improvement, culminating in his ability to complete all races in the 2025 season, which marks a significant milestone in his career.
Previous NASCAR Series Achievements
In the NASCAR Xfinity Series, Ware recorded a best finish of seventh in 2020. His early career in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series included attempts to compete for Rookie of the Year honors, although he faced challenges that limited his success in that series.
Cody Ware Family
Family Background and NASCAR Lineage
Cody Ware is the son of Rick Ware, a prominent NASCAR team owner. This connection to the sport has played a significant role in shaping his racing career and opportunities.
Personal Life
Ware has openly discussed his struggles with mental health, including depression and anxiety, and has shared his experiences with Asperger syndrome. His personal journey reflects a commitment to raising awareness about mental health issues within the racing community.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season has been a pivotal year for Cody Ware as he has successfully completed all scheduled races. His performances have shown marked improvement, with a career-best fourth-place finish at the Coke Zero Sugar 400. Ware’s ability to maintain consistency and navigate the challenges of the NASCAR Cup Series has established him as a competitive driver within the league. As he continues to develop his skills, the outlook for his future in racing remains promising.