The NASCAR Xfinity Series is set to welcome another intriguing storyline in 2025 as Greg Van Alst has been announced as the primary driver of the No. 35 car for the majority of the upcoming season. The team, co-owned by Joey Gase and newly-added partner Scott Osteen, looks to make its mark in the Xfinity Series with an experienced and versatile driver behind the wheel and fresh ownership leadership in the garage.
Van Alst Steps Up to Xfinity After ARCA Success
Greg Van Alst, known for his perseverance and blue-collar racing background, is stepping into the NASCAR Xfinity Series spotlight after years of grinding his way through the ranks. Van Alst, the 2022 ARCA Menards Series champion, has been a fan-favorite for his underdog spirit and determination, often self-funding his racing efforts.
This move to the No. 35 car marks a significant career milestone for Van Alst, who has already proven he can compete with limited resources. His ARCA victories and consistent performances have earned him a reputation as a skilled racer capable of excelling under pressure. Van Alst expressed his excitement about the opportunity:
“I’ve worked my whole life for a shot like this, and I couldn’t be more excited to represent Joey Gase Racing and our partners. Moving to the Xfinity Series is a dream come true, and I’m ready to show what we can do as a team.”
Scott Osteen Joins as Co-Owner
The No. 35 team will benefit from a new leadership dynamic as Scott Osteen, who owned Floridian Motorsports, officially joined as a co-owner last week. Osteen’s Floridian Motorsports made a splash in select NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series events last year, showcasing potential with a modest budget. Now, his partnership with Joey Gase Racing is expected to inject additional resources and expertise into the Xfinity program.
Joey Gase, who has balanced his role as a driver and team owner, welcomed Osteen to the team, stating:
“Scott has proven he has a passion for this sport and the ability to help smaller teams punch above their weight. With him on board, we’re excited about the future of our program and what we can achieve together.”
Osteen’s experience in managing a part-time Truck Series team, combined with Gase’s knowledge of the Xfinity garage, creates a promising foundation for the No. 35 team.
Team Goals for 2025
With Greg Van Alst driving the majority of races, the No. 35 team is aiming to solidify itself as a competitive force in the Xfinity Series. While the team is unlikely to challenge powerhouse organizations immediately, the partnership between Gase and Osteen and Van Alst’s grit suggest the team could surprise with strong finishes, particularly on superspeedways and short tracks.
The team’s schedule and plans for additional drivers in the remaining races have not been announced, but it’s likely the ownership group will use those events to provide opportunities for young drivers or develop partnerships with sponsors.
Underdog Spirit in a Competitive Field
The 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series field is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in years, with established teams, young rising stars, and returning veterans all vying for success. The addition of the No. 35 team, with its underdog spirit and collaborative leadership, adds another layer of intrigue to the season.
For Greg Van Alst, this opportunity is more than just a step up—it’s a chance to prove that hard work and perseverance can lead to success at NASCAR’s higher levels. For Joey Gase and Scott Osteen, it’s a chance to build a program that can grow and thrive in one of NASCAR’s toughest series.
As the 2025 season approaches, fans will be eager to see how Van Alst performs in his new role and how the Gase-Osteen partnership shapes the team’s trajectory. One thing is certain: the No. 35 team will be one to watch as they look to make their mark in the Xfinity Series.
