After closing out the 2024 NASCAR season with a thrilling victory at Talladega Superspeedway, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. is eager to carry that momentum into the 2025 campaign. The JTG Daugherty Racing driver reflected on his recent success and shared his optimism during a preseason media session, previewing what could be a standout year.
Ending 2024 on a High Note
Stenhouse’s late-season win at Talladega was a reminder of his prowess on superspeedways, where he has consistently excelled throughout his career. The victory, his first of the 2024 season, not only provided a morale boost for the team but also set the stage for an offseason filled with renewed focus and determination.
“That win at Talladega was huge for us,” Stenhouse said. “It reminded everyone what this team is capable of. We’re looking to take that confidence into 2025 and turn it into consistent results.”
Aiming for Consistency
Stenhouse acknowledged that while the Talladega win was a highlight, the 2024 season was marked by inconsistency. For 2025, the goal is clear: maintain the speed and strategy needed to be a regular contender, not just on superspeedways but across all types of tracks.
“Superspeedways have always been a strong suit for me, but we want to improve everywhere,” Stenhouse explained. “Our focus this offseason has been on tightening up the areas where we struggled last year. I believe we’ve made some great strides.”
Team Chemistry and Expectations
JTG Daugherty Racing has been making investments to elevate its competitive edge, including improvements to its engineering program and pit crew performance. Stenhouse credited the team’s collaborative environment for their ability to adapt and improve, emphasizing the strong bond within the organization.
“We’re a single-car team, but that makes us a tight-knit group. Everyone has the same goal—to be competitive week in and week out. We’ve got the right people in place to make that happen.”
Looking Ahead to 2025
The 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season kicks off with the Daytona 500, a race Stenhouse knows well after winning it in 2023. While he aims to add a second Daytona 500 victory to his resume, his sights are set on something bigger: a playoff berth and a deeper run into the championship chase.
“Making the playoffs is always the first goal, but we don’t just want to make it—we want to contend. That’s the mindset we’re taking into this season,” he said.
The Fans and the Future
Stenhouse also expressed gratitude to his fans, who have remained loyal through the ups and downs of his career. He hopes the 2025 season will give them plenty of reasons to celebrate.
“Our fans are the best, and they’ve stuck with us through everything. We’re working hard to give them something to cheer for every weekend.”
As the 2025 NASCAR season approaches, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. is ready to capitalize on his Talladega momentum and show that JTG Daugherty Racing can compete with the best in the Cup Series. With a fresh start and high expectations, Stenhouse is poised to make the upcoming season one to remember.
