Erik Jones, driver of the No. 43 AdventHealth Toyota Camry XSE for LEGACY MOTOR CLUB, spoke with the media on Wednesday ahead of the Daytona 500 about the recent changes to the NASCAR points format. Jones believes the new system rekindles the intensity and significance of the Daytona 500 by altering how drivers approach the race and their overall championship strategies.
According to Jones, the revamped points format changes how competitors view their opportunities throughout the season, especially on superspeedways like Daytona.
“I think it does change the mindset a little bit of the guys that think this is maybe one of their only four shots in the year of winning. That changes a lot. I think the racing will be a little bit different. Guys (will) still be pushing to win, but you’re probably going to see some different moves of just trying to be in contention to win it,”
he said. His excitement over the new approach highlights an anticipation for a more dynamic battle for victory.
Anticipating Variations in Racing Tactics and Aggression
When asked how driver behavior might differ under this new arrangement, Jones suggested the level of aggression will remain high, particularly during the race’s closing stages, but earlier phases could show a shift in strategy.
“I think you’ll still see a lot of aggression towards the end, but I think you might just see different racing through the day. I think some of the guys that feel like this is going to be their only chance, here and Talladega, the few (drafting tracks) we do, that there’s probably more aggressive moves through the day to try to put themselves in position all day long,”
he explained, noting that the change from a win-and-in format for the postseason influences tactics.
Adjusting Mental Preparation Following the Offseason
Jones shared insights on how he mentally prepares to return to the demanding atmosphere of racing after a break. He sets a clear transition point in January to shift focus from offseason relaxation back to race readiness.
“I kind of pick a date in January, where it’s like, ‘okay, it’s time to go back into race and work mode,’ and it’s not, you know, vacation anymore, back in just the regular swing,”
he stated.
Still, Jones stressed that full mental readiness only comes after tackling the Duels and beginning actual competition, saying,
“until you get through the Duels tomorrow night, you’re still in just that weird mindset of not being totally comfortable yet and ready to go again.”
Jimmie Johnson’s Role in Supporting Team Success at Daytona 500
Jones touched on the potential role Jimmie Johnson might play in aiding the team’s efforts, explaining that Johnson’s priorities align with LEGACY MOTOR CLUB’s best chance to secure victory.
“I think he would do whatever would be best for LEGACY MOTOR CLUB, right? I know Jimmie (Johnson)’s a competitor and wants to win another (Daytona) 500 as much as anybody in the field, but I think if he’s in a situation where he’d be putting at risk that no the LEGACY MOTOR CLUB car won the race, I think he’s going to take the option that one of us is going to win,”
said Jones. He views this as a unique position for Johnson, recognizing the veteran driver’s competitive spirit balanced with team loyalty.
Integrating Justin Alexander’s Leadership as Crew Chief
The arrival of Justin Alexander as the new crew chief has introduced new communication dynamics within the team. Jones noted,
“The biggest thing is (that the) communication is so different, right? Not just between me and him, but to the crew, as well, and what the guys are used to hearing.”
He acknowledged that the crew’s adjustment to Alexander’s style involves a learning curve but overall the initial practice sessions have been smooth and low-pressure, providing a solid foundation as they proceed into the season.
Rising Expectations for LEGACY MOTOR CLUB This Season
Jones candidly addressed the heightened aspirations surrounding the team.
“This is year three for us with Toyota, and we want to be in contention. We spend a lot of time, a lot of money, and put a lot of effort in, so I think everybody wants to see that transition to being a contender,”
he reflected. Winning races is a key objective, with the team now focused on taking the next step toward consistent success.
How the New Points System Benefits Consistent Teams Like LEGACY MOTOR CLUB
The updated format appears advantageous for teams that focus on steady performance, such as LEGACY MOTOR CLUB. Jones remarked,
“I think this format does reward the consistency that I think we can have, so I’m happy about that.”
Reflecting on 2022, he referenced their solid performance despite missing the Playoffs due to numerous earlier race winners but expressed confidence in replicating a competitive run with the new system.
Personal Significance of a Potential Daytona 500 Victory in the No. 43 Car
Winning the Daytona 500 in the iconic No. 43 car holds deep meaning for Jones, especially considering its storied history. He said,
“A crown jewel win, and what it would mean for the Petty family, what it would mean for LEGACY MOTOR CLUB, what it would mean for the No. 43 fans.”
A victory here would not only be a personal milestone but also a tribute to the legacy of the car and its supporters.
Expanding Storylines with the Revamped Season Points Approach
Jones emphasized that the expanded importance of every race week creates a broader and more intense narrative throughout the season.
“Everything matters so much more now, right? … Now, all those weeks are going to matter now,”
he explained. The elimination of fluke victories in the playoff run is expected to make the championship fight more authentic and rewarding.
Looking Forward to Competition at Chicagoland and Other Venues
Reflecting on upcoming events, Jones expressed enthusiasm for the return to Chicagoland Speedway, noting its proximity to his hometown and previous success there. He expects the track to offer unique challenges due to its aging surface but also predicts exciting racing with Next Gen cars. His positive anticipation extends beyond the Daytona 500 to the entire season’s challenges.
Evaluating Practice Sessions and Qualifying Prospects
Jones described recent practice sessions as uneventful but constructive, highlighting clean operations without issues.
“I think so. You know, it was pretty straightforward. There weren’t any issues, nothing went wrong, which was good. So, we’ll see where we end up,”
he commented. He also stressed the importance of qualifying in positioning the team well for the race, hoping to secure a top-20 starting spot.
Confidence Level Heading Into the Daytona 500
Despite past challenges at Daytona, Jones remains confident in his capabilities and car’s performance.
“The (Daytona) 500’s been a tough one for me for some reason… I always come here with confidence, knowing that I know what I need to do, and I think our cars are going be good as well,”
he said.
Navigating a Season of Potential Driver Moves and “Silly Season” Effects
Addressing the widespread speculation surrounding driver changes, Jones observed that this year could bring more movement than usual within the sport. However, he is committed to his current team and focused on growth and improvement.
“I don’t have any interest in moving around,”
he affirmed, while acknowledging the broader uncertainty across top NASCAR organizations.
Optimism for a Breakthrough Performance at Daytona This Year
Jones hopes that luck and preparation will align in 2024 to deliver a strong Daytona 500 result. He noted previous years featured promising cars but unfortunate incidents, underscoring the importance of being in the right place at the right time.
“I’ve been in the right spot a lot, we just need to need to play out right for us,”
he concluded.
Confidence Comes From Team’s Past Success and Continued Potential
With two LEGACY MOTOR CLUB drivers finishing in the top five at Daytona in the prior year, Jones recognizes the strengthened position the team holds going into this season.
“We had fast cars last year, and I think we have as good of cars this year,”
he said, highlighting the areas that could make a difference including traffic handling and strategic execution on pit road.
Qualifying and Stage Points Are Critical to Superspeedway Success
Jones underscored the growing importance of qualifying and accumulating stage points throughout the race week.
“You have to be in contention here all day long to be racing for stage points and gaining them,”
he explained, emphasizing that these factors contribute significantly to overall success in the superspeedway settings.
Adjusting to a Season Emphasizing Points Racing Over Individual Wins
The season’s return to a dominant points-based structure requires a mental shift for many competitors, particularly the top teams accustomed to relying on race victories. Jones noted that while his team has experience pursuing consistent points, the bigger change will primarily affect multi-win teams who must adapt to accumulating points continuously to secure postseason success.
Road Courses Remain the Team’s Largest Competitive Challenge
Jones identified road courses as the most difficult tracks for the team this season. He explained that the current car’s performance in these events has lagged behind other venues, indicating a need for further development and improvement to be more competitive on these demanding circuits.
The Role of Kellen Mills as Team Motivator
Jones praised jackman Kellen Mills for his positive influence within the team, particularly noting Mills’ commitment to uplifting others. Referencing the Richard Petty Award for Excellence, he said,
“He’s always the motivator… He doesn’t do (that stuff) because he wanted to win that award, that’s just who he is,”
highlighting Mills’ integral role in fostering team morale.
