MOORESVILLE, N.C. — Hours after announcing his departure from Front Row Motorsports at season’s end, Michael McDowell has a new home for 2025.
The 2021 Daytona 500 winner will drive for Spire Motorsports aboard theNo. 71 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 in the NASCAR Cup Series beginning with the 2025 season. The two sides agreed on a multi-year deal.
McDowell is a veteran of 477 Cup Series starts and a two-time race winner. He made his debut in 2008 and has since recorded two pole positions, nine top-five and 40 top-10 finishes in NASCAR’s premier division.
He will be teamed with veteran Corey LaJoie and rookie of the year contender Carson Hocevar.
“This is a new chapter for my family and me, and we’re incredibly thankful for the opportunity that’s in front of us,” said McDowell. “It’s going to take some hard work, but I feel like everything is in place for us to be successful as a race team — to win races and contend for championships. People are the greatest asset to any organization, and with Spire’s vision, ambition, knowledge, and dedication, we will achieve great things.
“Failure is not an option, and that’s the mindset that it will take to achieve our goals.”
The news comes after McDowell announced this year will be his last with Front Row Motorsports. He’s competed for FRM since 2018.
“Michael McDowell is a proven winner and brings a NASCAR Playoff pedigree,” said Spire Motorsports president Doug Duchardt. “Michael has always been committed to elevate his teams. His experience and enthusiasm are a perfect fit for Spire Motorsports, and we are sure he will be a great teammate to both Carey LaJoie and Carson Hocevar. We’re thrilled to keep up the positive momentum by adding someone as accomplished as Michael to our driver lineup.
“Our 2024 plan for the No. 71 team remains unchanged. Spire Motorsports fully supports Zane Smith and Stephan Doran. We remain committed to the success of our collaboration with Trackhouse. That team is just beginning to realize its potential. We’re looking forward to seeing how the Rookie of the Year battle plays out between Zane and Carson.”