Johnny Sauter Bio
Early Life and Background
Jonathan Joseph Sauter was born on May 1, 1978, in Necedah, Wisconsin, U.S. He grew up in a family with a strong racing background; his father, Jim Sauter, was a former NASCAR driver, and he is the brother of fellow NASCAR drivers Tim and Jay Sauter. This familial connection to racing provided Johnny with early exposure to the sport, fostering his passion for motorsports from a young age.
Sauter began competing in various amateur racing series throughout Wisconsin and the Midwest after graduating high school in 1996. His early racing career included success in the Sportsman Division and Late Model Division, where he secured multiple wins, laying the foundation for his future in professional racing.
Path to NASCAR
In 1998, Sauter joined the American Speed Association Series, where he quickly made a name for himself. By 2001, he achieved significant success by winning the ASA Series Championship. This accomplishment led to an invitation from Richard Childress Racing to compete in the NASCAR Busch Series, marking his transition to the national racing scene.
Sauter’s early years in NASCAR were characterized by a series of promising performances. He made his Busch Series debut in 2001 and secured his first win in the series in 2002. His ability to consistently finish in the top ranks helped him gain recognition and opportunities in higher-tier NASCAR competitions.
Johnny Sauter Career
Early Career (1996–2005)
Sauter’s professional racing career began in the late 1990s, where he competed in various local series before making his way into the NASCAR ranks. He debuted in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series in 2003, where he quickly established himself as a competitive driver. His first notable victory came in 2009 at the Las Vegas 350, which marked the beginning of a successful career in the Truck Series.
During these formative years, Sauter also participated in the NASCAR Cup Series, making his debut in 2003. Although he faced challenges in securing wins in the Cup Series, his performances in the Truck Series began to define his career trajectory.
NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Breakthrough (2009–2016)
Sauter found his niche in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, where he became a formidable competitor. In 2009, he won the Rookie of the Year award, showcasing his potential in the series. His breakthrough season came in 2016 when he clinched the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Championship, solidifying his status as one of the top drivers in the series.
Throughout his time in the Truck Series, Sauter achieved numerous victories and consistently finished in the top ranks. He won the Regular Season Championship in 2018, demonstrating his competitiveness and skill behind the wheel.
ThorSport Racing Era (2017–Present)
Sauter currently drives the No. 66 Ford F-150 for ThorSport Racing. His tenure with the team has been marked by notable performances, including multiple wins and playoff appearances. Despite facing challenges in recent seasons, Sauter remains a respected figure in the Truck Series.
In 2025, Sauter continues to compete part-time, navigating the evolving landscape of the series while aiming to add to his impressive career totals. His experience and knowledge of the sport contribute significantly to his team’s dynamics and performance.
Race Car Driver Style and Strengths
Sauter is known for his strategic approach to racing, often demonstrating exceptional skill in managing race conditions and tire wear. His ability to adapt to different tracks and situations has made him a versatile competitor in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Throughout his career, Sauter has achieved significant milestones, including winning the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series Championship in 2016 and the Regular Season Championship in 2018. His dramatic victories, particularly at his home track in Milwaukee, have solidified his legacy in the sport.
Johnny Sauter Career Wins
Johnny Sauter has accumulated a total of 24 wins in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, alongside notable achievements in the NASCAR Cup Series and NASCAR Xfinity Series. His career has been marked by consistent performances and competitive finishes.
Current NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Highlights
In the current NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, Sauter has secured a total of 24 wins. His first victory in the series came in 2009, and his most recent win was in 2019 at the JEGS 200. Sauter has consistently been a contender in the playoffs, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
Previous NASCAR Series Achievements
In the NASCAR Cup Series, Sauter made a total of 38 starts, with his best finish being 30th in 2007. He also competed in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, where he achieved three wins and numerous top-ten finishes, highlighting his versatility across different series.
Johnny Sauter Family
Family Background and NASCAR Lineage
Johnny Sauter comes from a family deeply rooted in motorsports. His father, Jim Sauter, was a notable NASCAR driver, and his brothers, Tim and Jay Sauter, have also competed in various racing series. This legacy has undoubtedly influenced Johnny’s career and passion for racing.
Personal Life
Sauter resides in Necedah, Wisconsin, where he enjoys spending time with his family. In his free time, he engages in hobbies such as flying, fishing, and playing the banjo. He is known for his strong Catholic faith, which plays a significant role in his life.
2025 Season Performance
As of 2025, Johnny Sauter continues to compete part-time in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series with ThorSport Racing. His performance has been characterized by a mix of competitive finishes and challenges as he adapts to the evolving dynamics of the series. Sauter’s experience and strategic approach remain crucial as he navigates the season, aiming to secure additional victories and maintain his status as a respected veteran in the sport.
