NASCAR’s Corey LaJoie breaks silence after surprise team exit

Corey LaJoie has announced his departure from Spire Motorsports. Revealing this news after the NASCAR Cup Series race at Bristol Motor Speedway, LaJoie took to social media to express his sentiments regarding the end of his tenure with the team.

"The last couple of months have been an interesting and unique journey," LaJoie shared (below). "Navigating conversations about my future in the sport while continuing to prepare and execute at a high level, as we've shown over the past month, has been a welcomed challenge. Now, being part of the 'trade' gives me clarity and motivation to continue overcoming and enduring the obstacles the sport throws at you."

LaJoie, who joined Spire Motorsports in 2021, reflected on his time with the team, describing it as transformative. His achievements with the squad include three top-10 finishes in 29 races this year, highlighted by a remarkable fourth-place finish at the Daytona 500 on February 18. LaJoie shared his gratitude to his colleagues and extended well wishes to Jeff Dickerson, the President of Spire Motorsports, as well as the entire team.

"I wish Jeff, and everyone at Spire, who have become lifelong friends, the best of luck," LaJoie continued. "Rick Ware, Robby Benton, and the RWR Group are also overcomers, and they're focused on taking that organization to the next level. I'm ready to join their team and help make that happen. I truly appreciate the unwavering support from my loyal partners and fans throughout this journey."

Dickerson responded with high praise for LaJoie and what he's done for the team.

"Corey LaJoie has been a cornerstone of Spire Motorsports and we're incredibly appreciative of all the time, effort, and energy he has invested in our program," Dickerson stated. "RWR is getting a workhorse in Corey. He's dedicated to his craft and his tenacity brings out the best in those around him."

The transition comes as part of a driver swap arrangement that sees Justin Haley moving from Rick Ware Racing to Spire Motorsports. Haley is set to take LaJoie's seat in the No. 7 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, with an anticipated debut at Kansas Speedway later this month. The contract binds Haley to Spire Motorsports through 2025, signaling a long-term commitment and faith in the driver.

Robby Benton, President of Rick Ware Racing, echoed similar sentiments of admiration and support in his comments about Haley.

"Justin Haley is a very talented driver who has done a lot to help elevate RWR," Benton remarked. "Justin came to us over the Olympic break with a longer-term opportunity that would serve his career well. We were sympathetic to his desires, as Justin committed to RWR early last year and has since played a key role in the growth of our organization. We didn't want to compromise his growth or our own. In our talks with Justin following the break, we agreed to release him from his contract with RWR."