TriStar Motorsports has added Corey LaJoie to it’s driver lineup in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series.
The team will continue to field one entry in NASCAR’s top series meaning that LaJoie will split time behind the wheel of the No. 72 car with Cole Whitt.
LaJoie will get the first shot at driving the car in the series opening Daytona 500 and will drive the car for the bulk of the schedule in 2018 as Whitt decreases his racing commitments.
“I want to thank TriStar and the Smith family for allowing me to do something I feel is the right decision for me and my family,” said Whitt in a team provided statement. “I am excited and a little nervous to say that I will be racing a limited schedule this year. I am looking forward to taking the next step in my life and trying to spend most of my time with my family. Stepping back from racing is a hard choice but I strongly believe this is the right path. TriStar has been an amazing blessing to me and my family and I look forward to what the future holds for both of us.”
TriStar Motorsports will use a charter acquired from Front Row Motorsports for the 2018 season. Frankie Kerr returns as the crew chief of the No. 72.
“It’s such a great opportunity to work with TriStar Motorsports,” said Corey LaJoie. “I hope to use the learning experiences from my 2017 Rookie Season and work hard for some great finishes this year. It’s my goal to continue building a successful team with Bryan, while honoring the legacy his dad, Mark left behind.”
Thus far no details have been released on sponsorship for the car to be driven by LaJoie and Whitt. The team also fields an Xfinity Series car.
