The NASCAR Cup Series is set to see a major transformation in 2025 as JTG Daugherty Racing rebrands to Hyak Motorsports. The change follows a significant shift in ownership, with Gordon Smith assuming operational control from Tad and Jodi Geschickter earlier this year. Smith, a successful entrepreneur and the owner of Hyak Maritime, has infused new direction into the team, aligning it closely with his broader business ventures.
From JTG Daugherty to Hyak Motorsports
Founded in 1995, JTG Daugherty Racing has long been a staple of NASCAR, enjoying notable success, including a historic win in the 2023 Daytona 500 with driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. However, with Smith at the helm, the team has embarked on a rebranding journey.
The new name, Hyak Motorsports, reflects Smith’s connection to his maritime business, Hyak Maritime, based in Washington. “Hyak” means “fast” or “hurry” in the Chinook Jargon, a nod to both the team’s racing ambitions and the maritime roots of Smith’s company.
In a statement, Smith said, “Rebranding to Hyak Motorsports is about honoring where I come from while looking forward to where we’re headed. This team has an incredible legacy, and I’m excited to build on that with a fresh identity and vision.”
What the Rebranding Means for the Team
The rebranding comes at a time of optimism for the organization. Under Smith’s leadership, the team has focused on modernizing its operations and enhancing its competitive edge on the track. Key elements of the transformation include:
1. Expanded Resources: Smith’s ownership has brought in additional financial backing and technology partnerships aimed at improving race-day performance and long-term stability.
2. Team Identity: The Hyak Motorsports branding will extend beyond the name, with a new logo, team colors, and merchandise set to debut ahead of the 2025 season.
3. Continuity and Change: While the branding is changing, the team will retain many of its current personnel, including drivers, engineers, and key staff. This balance of continuity and innovation is expected to help maintain consistency on the track while embracing new opportunities.
Ricky Stenhouse Jr.’s Role in the New Era
Ricky Stenhouse Jr., the team’s lead driver, is expected to continue anchoring the team during the transition. Stenhouse has played a pivotal role in JTG Daugherty’s success, and his experience will be invaluable as Hyak Motorsports establishes itself under its new identity.
“This is an exciting moment for the team,” Stenhouse said. “We’ve had some great accomplishments, and now we have a chance to build something even bigger. I’m looking forward to being part of this new chapter.”
The Future of Hyak Motorsports
Hyak Motorsports will remain headquartered in North Carolina, keeping its roots firmly planted in NASCAR’s heartland while embracing Smith’s Pacific Northwest influences. The team has already hinted at new sponsorship deals that align with Smith’s maritime connections, signaling a fresh wave of interest and investment.
With a strong foundation and a bold new identity, Hyak Motorsports is poised to make waves in NASCAR’s Cup Series. Fans can expect to see the revamped team debut its new look at the 2025 Daytona 500, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the organization’s storied history.
This rebranding signals not just a change in name but a renewed commitment to competitiveness and innovation. As Hyak Motorsports, the team aims to blend its racing heritage with a forward-looking approach that honors its past while charting a new course.
