JR Motorsports (JRM), a prominent force in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, has unveiled its crew chief lineup for the 2025 season, signaling a strategic approach to maintain its competitive edge. Founded in 2002 by Dale Earnhardt Jr., Kelley Earnhardt Miller, and Rick Hendrick, JRM boasts a rich history of success, accumulating over 90 victories, four championships, and a consistent presence among the top contenders. This announcement sets the stage for another exciting year of racing, with a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers poised to lead JRM’s drivers to victory lane.
The 2025 season will see a dynamic mix of experience and fresh talent within the JRM crew chief ranks. Cory Shea, fresh off a championship win as car chief for Justin Allgaier’s No. 7 team, takes the reins of the No. 9 “all-star” entry. This high-profile car will feature a rotating roster of top-tier drivers, including Ross Chastain and Shane van Gisbergen, adding an element of unpredictability and excitement to the season. Meanwhile, the championship-winning duo of Justin Allgaier and crew chief Jim Pohlman return to defend their title in the No. 7 Chevrolet, providing a strong foundation of consistency and proven performance. Phillip Bell continues his partnership with rising star Sammy Smith in the No. 8 Chevrolet, aiming to build upon the success they achieved in 2024, including Bell’s first crew chief win at Talladega Superspeedway.
The JRM lineup also welcomes new pairings that hold significant potential. Andrew Overstreet, a crew chief with a proven track record of wins and top-10 finishes, will guide rookie driver Carson Kvapil in the No. 1 Chevrolet. This pairing represents a strategic investment in young talent, with Overstreet’s experience serving as a crucial asset in Kvapil’s development. Similarly, Mardy Lindley, who transitioned from the Truck Series to the Xfinity Series in 2023 and led Sam Mayer to a strong third-place finish, will mentor rookie Connor Zilisch in the No. 88 Chevrolet. Lindley’s expertise will be invaluable in shaping Zilisch’s early career and maximizing his potential within the competitive Xfinity Series.
The 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series season kicks off on February 15th at the iconic Daytona International Speedway, promising a thrilling start to the year. The schedule spans a diverse range of tracks, from superspeedways like Daytona and Talladega to road courses like Sonoma and Watkins Glen, challenging drivers and teams to adapt their strategies and showcase their versatility. The regular season culminates on September 6th at St. Louis, followed by the playoffs, which begin on September 12th at Bristol Motor Speedway. The championship battle will culminate on November 1st at Phoenix Raceway, where the champion will be crowned after a grueling season of intense competition.
JRM’s meticulously crafted crew chief lineup reflects the organization’s commitment to fostering a winning culture and developing both established and emerging talent. By pairing experienced crew chiefs with rising stars and maintaining successful partnerships, JRM aims to maintain its position as a leading force in the Xfinity Series. The 2025 season promises to be a showcase of skill, strategy, and determination, as JRM’s drivers and crew chiefs strive for victory and championship glory. The diverse schedule, featuring a mix of track types and challenging conditions, will test the mettle of all competitors, providing an exciting spectacle for race fans.
Each crew chief brings a unique set of skills and experiences to their respective teams, creating a dynamic and competitive environment within JRM. Shea’s experience with a championship-caliber team provides a solid foundation for the No. 9 “all-star” entry, while Pohlman’s continued partnership with Allgaier offers stability and proven success. Bell’s developing synergy with Smith and the pairing of seasoned crew chiefs with rookie drivers in Overstreet and Kvapil, and Lindley and Zilisch, all contribute to a diverse and promising outlook for JRM in 2025. The season ahead promises to be a compelling narrative of established dominance, rising stars, and the pursuit of victory in one of NASCAR’s most competitive series.
