Joey Hand Bio
Early Life and Background
Joseph Alan Hand was born on February 10, 1979, in Sacramento, California, USA. He began his journey in motorsports at the young age of twelve, starting in kart racing. This early exposure to competitive racing laid the foundation for his future career, where he would eventually become a prominent figure in sports car racing.
Path to NASCAR
Hand’s racing career began in earnest when he moved up to the Star Mazda Series in 1998. He quickly made a name for himself, winning nine races and earning the Rookie of the Year award in 1998, followed by the series championship in 1999. After a brief hiatus due to injury, he transitioned to the Toyota Atlantic series in 2001, where he achieved two wins and a best championship finish of third in 2001.
Joey Hand Career
Early Career (1998–2013)
Hand’s early career saw him competing in various series, including the American Le Mans Series and Grand-Am. He began racing in the Grand American Road Racing Association’s Rolex Sports Car Series in 2004, where he won five times in the GT category while driving BMWs. His notable achievements during this period include winning the 2011 Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona and the 2012 12 Hours of Sebring GT class.
IMSA Breakthrough (2016)
In 2016, Hand joined the Ford factory program for the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. He was part of the team that won the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans in the LMGTE Pro category, driving the Ford GT. This victory marked a significant milestone in his career, showcasing his skill and determination on one of the world’s biggest racing stages.
NASCAR Era (2021–Present)
Hand made his NASCAR debut in 2021, racing for Rick Ware Racing at the Charlotte Motor Speedway Roval. He competed in all six road course races in the 2022 NASCAR Cup Series season, achieving his best finish of twentieth at Sonoma. In 2024, he was announced to drive the No. 60 car for RFK Racing, where he made headlines by winning the second stage in the Chicago Street race, marking his first career stage win in the NASCAR Cup Series.
Race Car Driver Style and Strengths
Joey Hand is known for his versatility and adaptability across various racing disciplines. His experience in sports car racing has honed his skills in endurance racing, making him a strategic driver capable of navigating complex race scenarios effectively.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Hand’s career is highlighted by several significant wins, including the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring. His victory at the 2016 24 Hours of Le Mans remains a defining moment, solidifying his reputation as a top-tier endurance racer.
Joey Hand Career Wins
Joey Hand has achieved numerous wins throughout his racing career, particularly in endurance racing events. His notable victories include prestigious races such as the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring.
Current NASCAR Series Highlights
In the NASCAR Cup Series, Hand has recorded one top-ten finish and has participated in multiple races since his debut. His performance continues to improve as he gains more experience in the series, with a notable stage win in the 2024 season.
Previous IMSA Series Achievements
Hand’s previous achievements in the IMSA series include multiple wins and podium finishes, particularly during his time with BMW and Ford. His success in endurance racing has established him as a formidable competitor in the sports car racing community.
Joey Hand Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Joey Hand is married to Natalie, and together they have two children. While specific details about his family background are limited, his commitment to family remains a significant aspect of his life.
Personal Life
Hand maintains a relatively private personal life, focusing primarily on his racing career. His dedication to the sport and his family reflects his values both on and off the track.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season has seen Joey Hand continuing to develop his skills in the NASCAR Cup Series. Competing in the No. 60 car for RFK Racing, he has shown promise with improved performances, including a notable stage win. As the season progresses, Hand aims to build on his experience and secure more top finishes, solidifying his position in the series. The dynamics within his team and the strategies employed by his crew chief will be crucial as he seeks to enhance his competitive edge in upcoming races.