Corey LaJoie Ready for NASCAR Cup Race at EchoPark Speedway

This weekend, the NASCAR Cup Series will return to the EchoPark Speedway in Atlanta, featuring a competitive lineup of 40 cars. Among the participants is Corey LaJoie, who will be driving the No. 01 Ford for Rick Ware Racing. This marks LaJoie’s fourth appearance in the 2025 season, and he is eager to make the most of this opportunity.

A New Perspective on Racing

Over the past few weeks, LaJoie has experienced the NASCAR Cup Series from a unique vantage point—he has been working as an analyst for Prime Video. This role has allowed him to step back and observe the races in a way he never has before, which has profoundly influenced his perspective as a driver.

“Being behind the wheel can sometimes feel really isolating,” LaJoie noted. “You carry the weight of expectations—not just from your team and sponsors but also from your fans and yourself. When you’re not performing as expected, it can feel like everyone is watching you and waiting for you to fail.”

Through his experience as a commentator, LaJoie has discovered that his focus is often limited to just a few drivers during a race. “I realized that while I’m focused on the race, I’m mostly paying attention to three or four drivers. The others are working hard, but unless they’re part of the main storylines, they often slip from my mind.”

Reflecting on his past, LaJoie admitted, “Previously, if I wasn’t having a strong performance, I felt I was letting a lot of people down. I think I used to care too much about the outcome, which made it difficult to enjoy the experience.”

Embracing the Joy of Racing

With a fresh outlook, LaJoie is entering the race at Atlanta with a single focus: to enjoy the experience. He is aware that his schedule is limited this year, making each race even more special. “The atmosphere at Rick Ware Racing is fantastic. Going back to Atlanta, a track where I’ve come close to winning in the past, feels like a great opportunity for me to perform well and have some fun.”

LaJoie has kept himself busy since his last NASCAR Cup Series race in April. In addition to his work with Prime Video, he has been hosting his podcast, ‘Stacking Pennies,’ and competing in select NASCAR Truck and Modified races.

A Historic Venue with Untapped Potential

Atlanta holds a special significance for LaJoie. In his 275 career starts in the NASCAR Cup Series, he has yet to secure a victory. However, he came incredibly close during a race at Atlanta in 2022, where he attempted a last-lap pass for the lead against Chase Elliott. Unfortunately, the maneuver ended in a wreck when Elliott made a bold block. Earlier this season, LaJoie faced challenges in the initial Atlanta race, getting caught up in an incident that ended his chances.

“Atlanta is like a speedway on steroids,” he described. “The pace is relentless, and everything unfolds at lightning speed. It’s easy to find yourself in a precarious situation if you’re not careful.”

Looking Ahead at EchoPark Speedway

As the NASCAR Cup Series prepares for the Atlanta race, anticipation is building. The unique characteristics of the EchoPark Speedway, known for its high speeds and strategic racing, will be a test for all drivers, including LaJoie. The track’s design allows for both thrilling overtakes and challenging situations that can arise in the blink of an eye.

LaJoie’s insights gained from his time as an analyst will undoubtedly play a role in how he approaches this weekend’s race. With a fresh mindset, he is ready to tackle the challenges ahead and make the most out of this opportunity. “I’m excited to get back behind the wheel and show what I can do,” he expressed.

The Importance of Team Dynamics

LaJoie is also aware of the importance of teamwork in achieving success on the track. The collaboration between drivers, crews, and teams is essential for navigating the complexities of each race. “At the end of the day, racing is a team sport. You rely on your crew to provide you with the best car possible, and you have to trust them to make the right calls during the race,” he explained.

Rick Ware Racing has created an environment that fosters collaboration and support, making it an ideal place for LaJoie to thrive. “I feel really comfortable here. Everyone is focused on working together to achieve our goals, and that makes a huge difference.”

The Challenge of Limited Schedule

Running a limited schedule can be both a blessing and a challenge for LaJoie. While he appreciates the opportunity to compete in select races, it also means he has to maximize his performance whenever he gets the chance to race. “Every time I’m in the car, I have to make it count,” he said. “I’m always looking for ways to improve and learn, even if I’m only racing occasionally.”

With only a few races on his calendar, LaJoie is keenly aware that each event is a chance to showcase his skills and make a statement. “It’s about seizing the moment and putting everything I have into every lap.”

The Road Ahead

As the race day approaches, LaJoie’s focus remains on preparation and strategy. He understands the importance of taking the right approach to secure a solid finish. “It’s all about executing our game plan and being adaptable. You never know what can happen during a race, so being prepared for anything is crucial,” he emphasized.

The atmosphere at EchoPark Speedway will be electric, with fans eager to witness the thrilling action of the NASCAR Cup Series. LaJoie is excited to contribute to that excitement and hopes to leave a lasting impression on the fans and his team. “I want to give the fans a show and show them what I’m capable of,” he said with determination.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Corey LaJoie

As Corey LaJoie prepares for the upcoming race at EchoPark Speedway, he carries with him a renewed sense of purpose and enthusiasm. The insights gained from his recent experiences as an analyst have reshaped his approach to racing, allowing him to focus on enjoyment and performance without the burden of expectations.

With a supportive team behind him and a track that holds memories of near-victories, LaJoie is ready to embrace the challenges of the race ahead. His journey as a driver continues, and he remains dedicated to making the most of every opportunity on the track.

Whether he crosses the finish line first or not, LaJoie’s commitment to the sport and his determination to succeed remain unwavering. As he gears up for the race in Atlanta, fans and followers alike are eager to see how this dynamic driver will perform in what promises to be an exhilarating event in the NASCAR Cup Series.