MOORESVILLE, N.C. — Every driver learns to look ahead — and for C.J. McLaughlin, that includes anticipating the strength of a new partnership.
As the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series heads to Dover (Del.) Motor Speedway for Saturday afternoon’s BetRivers 200, McLaughlin will showcase a new name on his No. 42 Young’s Motorsports Chevrolet.
Pennsylvania-based Howell is supporting McLaughlin for the first time this season, in what looks to be the start of a partnership built on shared momentum and a strengthening friendship.
Headquartered in West Chester, Pennsylvania, the Howell companies include Howell Engineering, Howell Surveying, Howell Construction Stakeout, Howell Environmental, ePhase, Nave Newell, Landforms, Terrain and Smith & Howell.
For McLaughlin, the support from Howell carries significance in 2026 as he shares his engineering background with the sponsor to bring new interest and experience to Young’s Motorsports.
“We’ve had the chance to hang out with Denny Howell and his team at events in and around Philadelphia. We were blown away by the support of his whole staff – it’s been great to see how much they’re rooting for our team,” said McLaughlin. “It’s becoming more than a partnership at this point — it’s a friendship.
McLaughlin, 33, will make his second NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series start at the Monster Mile, aiming to improve on his 34th-place finish in 2023, when he piloted the No. 53 Ford entry for Emerling-Gase Motorsports.
Denny Howell, PE, said, “The link to CJ McLaughlin was a natural one for us. We appreciate his grasp of engineering, and we’re thrilled to see his skills in action on Saturday.”
“It’s a perfect start with a growing driving team, to showcase the Howell enthusiasm, support our recruitment efforts, and forward our reach.”
Smith & Howell partner Eric Smith added, “This partnership is a strategic way to grow alongside CJ as he chases his dreams in NASCAR. For us, it’s an unbelievable opportunity to invest in a sport we love.”
“I’m definitely looking forward to getting back to Dover,” said McLaughlin. “The Monster Mile is one of those places that demands a lot of respect because it’s fast, physical and there’s really no room for mistakes.
“My first NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race there in 2023 didn’t go the way we wanted, but I learned a lot about the track and what it takes to be competitive there.
“Now, coming back with more experience and a better understanding of how to drive the car at the track, I feel like we can put together a much stronger weekend.
“Dover is such a unique place; hopefully, we can stay out of trouble, execute all day, and give ourselves a shot at a solid finish for the team and everyone at Howell.”
