Henderson Motorsports announced that Corey LaJoie will compete in the upcoming Truck Series race at Daytona International Speedway, replacing expectations that Parker Kligerman would return for the event. Kligerman, who crossed the finish line first in last year’s season opener before being disqualified due to a ride height violation, had been widely anticipated to race again with the team.
Although Kligerman lost the Truck Series win after the post-race inspection, he continued to perform well at Daytona. He stepped in as a substitute driver for Connor Zilisch in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race at the same venue and won that competition. Despite his strong track record, Henderson Motorsports opted to have LaJoie behind the wheel for this year’s Daytona race.
Team Leadership Transitions and LaJoie’s Response to the New Role
Following the passing of team chairman Charlie Henderson last year, his children Debbie Henderson-Creasy and Chris Carrier have taken charge of the organization. Corey LaJoie expressed enthusiasm about joining Henderson Motorsports under their leadership, noting the significance of carrying on Charlie Henderson’s legacy in such a prestigious location.
“It’s been fun putting this deal together for many reasons. Parker is a good friend, and it’s cool to pick up the baton from where he left off last year. Debbie Henderson-Creasy and Chris Carrier have the passion to continue Charlie’s legacy, and there’s no better place to do that than the World Center of Racing…..We’re ready to put the 75 in the wind and see what we’ve got.”
LaJoie is also scheduled to compete in the Daytona 500 with RFK Racing, where he will attempt to qualify in the No. 99 Ford and assist as a drafting partner.
Insights from Henderson Motorsports Crew Chief on LaJoie’s Daytona Entry
Chris Carrier, the crew chief for Henderson Motorsports and one of the team leaders, shared his thoughts on LaJoie’s upcoming involvement with the team. Carrier emphasized LaJoie’s extensive experience and his ability to handle pressure, highlighting the strong communication during the deal’s formation and his optimism regarding their chances at Daytona.
“Corey is very experienced in several series. A lot of racing got racing in his blood. As Larry mcclure used to say, he’s a fast driver. I mean he can get the job done. We know that he’s been very good to communicate with and put all this deal together. Looking forward to it,”
LaJoie’s Previous Performance and Public Reception
Last year, LaJoie delivered a competitive performance in the Daytona 500 driving for Rick Ware Racing. He qualified just outside the top 10, led laps during the race, and appeared to be contending for the win before a wreck on the final lap caused him to finish 22nd. RFK Racing hopes to replicate or surpass that effort in this year’s event.
Despite LaJoie’s credentials, some fans expressed disappointment with the announcement of his signing rather than a return by Kligerman, reflecting a mixed reception in the racing community.
Implications for Henderson Motorsports and Future Expectations
The decision to have Corey LaJoie drive at Daytona represents both continuity and change for Henderson Motorsports. While the team moves forward under new leadership, LaJoie’s involvement aims to build on last year’s groundwork and bring competitive results in highly watched events. Success at Daytona could reinforce the team’s position and honor the late chairman’s legacy.
With LaJoie also competing in the Daytona 500, his dual presence at the venue provides an opportunity to maximize performance across different series. How the new lineup impacts Henderson Motorsports and LaJoie’s career this season will be closely followed by fans and analysts alike.
— Heather Williams (@SportsHeather) January 26, 2026
— Heather Williams (@SportsHeather) January 27, 2026
