Riley Herbst, the 27-year-old driver from Las Vegas, is gearing up for a new chapter in his NASCAR career as he prepares to join Legacy Motor Club for the 2027 NASCAR Cup Series season. The announcement comes after a challenging stint with 23XI Racing, where Herbst was recently replaced by Corey Heim. His move to Legacy is significant not only for his career but also for the team's future as they expand to a three-car operation.
Herbst's transition to Legacy Motor Club may not have been the most surprising news in the NASCAR world, but it certainly raises eyebrows when considering his past performance. Since making his debut in the Truck Series in 2018, he has accumulated three wins in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series over 179 starts, yet his best finish in the season standings was a modest seventh place. In the Cup Series, his results have been less than stellar, with only three top-10 finishes in 61 starts since joining 23XI in 2025.
Herbst's departure from 23XI Racing was marked by the arrival of Heim, a promising young driver who secured two wins in just 16 starts this season. This shift highlights the competitive nature of NASCAR, where performance is paramount. The decision by Legacy Motor Club to bring in Herbst seems to be a calculated risk, especially following the unexpected exit of John Hunter Nemechek, who had been a key part of the team.
Legacy Motor Club, co-owned by seven-time NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson, is set to expand to a full-time three-car operation in 2027, having secured a third charter after a lengthy legal battle. This new chapter for the team presents an opportunity for Herbst to grow alongside an organization that is on the rise. The addition of a third car means more resources and support, which could be crucial for Herbst as he seeks to improve his performance on the track.
Herbst himself acknowledges that he has much to learn and views his time at 23XI Racing as an educational experience. He has been actively seeking advice from experienced teammates like Tyler Reddick and Bubba Wallace, as well as team owner Denny Hamlin. Herbst has expressed a desire to absorb as much knowledge as possible to enhance his skills as a Cup driver. His commitment to learning could be a valuable asset as he transitions to Legacy Motor Club.
A key factor in Herbst's move is the continued support from Monster Energy, a sponsor he has carried since 2019. The partnership is beneficial for both parties, as Monster Energy provides significant financial backing, which is essential for a competitive team like Legacy. Mitch Covington, Chief Partnership Officer of Monster Energy, emphasized the brand's long-standing relationship with the Herbst family and their commitment to racing.
As Herbst prepares for his first race with Legacy at the 2027 Daytona 500, he is excited about the potential for growth within the team. He believes that Legacy is making strides, citing improved performance from teammate Erik Jones as evidence of the team's upward trajectory. With a multi-year deal in place, Herbst has the opportunity to prove himself in a supportive environment that is poised for success.
The upcoming season will not only mark a fresh start for Herbst but also coincide with Jimmie Johnson's final Cup Series appearance. For Herbst, who grew up idolizing Johnson, this presents a unique opportunity to learn from one of the sport's greats. As he embarks on this new journey, the question remains: can Riley Herbst transform his potential into results on the racetrack?
Leave a Comment