With Martin Truex Jr.’s retirement, JGR saw an opportunity to bring back the talented driver. Christopher Bell, who had been expected to replace Jones in the No. 20 car, will now continue with that role. Toyota and JGR had previously secured Bell under contract, ensuring his place in the Cup Series.
NEWS: Erik Jones to move back to Joe Gibbs Racing in 2025 to replace the retiring Martin Truex Jr. pic.twitter.com/EPcl6yqJuZ
— Movement (@MovementYT_) June 13, 2024
Jones’ tenure with JGR hit a roadblock in 2020 when the team decided not to renew his contract for the 2021 season. Despite working through an extension earlier, he was blindsided by the decision and expressed surprise during a pre-race show at Michigan International Speedway. Nevertheless, Jones remained positive, acknowledging the support from fans and looking forward to new opportunities.
Erik Jones has a storied history with JGR. He first joined the team in 2017, taking over the No. 20 ride previously held by Matt Kenseth. His journey through the ranks began as a pavement short track prodigy, famously outdueling Kyle Busch to win the 2012 Snowball Derby Super Late Model race. Since then, JGR and TRD have nurtured his development, leading him to become a full-time Cup Series driver.
Martin Truex Jr. Announces Retirement After 2024 Season
Martin Truex Jr., the 2017 NASCAR Cup Series champion, has decided to retire from Cup racing after the 2024 season. The announcement was first reported by The Athletic and has been confirmed by sources familiar with the decision.
Truex, who will turn 44 later this month, has had a remarkable career in NASCAR. He began competing full-time in the Cup Series in 2006, and his journey has been marked by 34 Cup wins, including the 2017 championship. His tenure with Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) over the last six years solidified his status as one of the sport’s greats.
Martin Truex Jr’s retirement decision wasn’t taken lightly. He has been on a series of one-year deals with JGR, and each year, he grappled with the choice to continue racing or step away. JGR needed clarity for the 2025 season, given several drivers without contracts. The team didn’t want to miss out on potential talent while waiting for Truex’s decision.
As Martin Truex bids farewell to competitive racing, he leaves behind a legacy of consistency, determination, and sportsmanship. His 146 top-5 finishes in 673 career Cup starts attest to his skill and resilience. Fans and fellow drivers alike recognize his contributions to the sport.
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