RFK Racing Revives Iconic No. 99 for Daytona 500 Assault with Corey LaJoie at the Helm

RFK Racing is set to expand its presence at the 68th running of the Daytona 500 in February, fielding a formidable four-car assault on NASCAR’s premier event. Joining the established entries of Chris Buescher in the No. 17, Ryan Preece in the No. 60, and team co-owner Brad Keselowski in the No. 6, the organization will introduce a fourth, open entry, a strategic move aimed at maximizing their competitive edge. This additional car will be piloted by Corey LaJoie, who will attempt to qualify for "The Great American Race" in the No. 99 Ford Mustang.

The return of the No. 99 to RFK Racing carries significant historical weight. While the number has recently been associated with Trackhouse Racing and Daniel Suarez from 2021 through 2025, its legacy is deeply intertwined with the Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing lineage. The last driver to grace the No. 99 Ford with Roush was Ryan Reed, who made a one-off appearance in the 2016 season. However, it was during the tenures of Carl Edwards and Jeff Burton that the No. 99 truly etched its name in NASCAR history under the Roush banner, accumulating a combined 40 victories. This storied past provides a rich backdrop for LaJoie’s upcoming campaign.

Corey LaJoie brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record at superspeedways, particularly at Daytona International Speedway. He has nine previous starts in the Daytona 500, with his most recent performance in 2024 yielding a strong fourth-place finish. His performance last year was particularly noteworthy, as he was running within the top five contenders before being caught in a chaotic last-lap incident that reshaped the finishing order. Furthermore, LaJoie has already demonstrated his adaptability and commitment to RFK Racing, having been named as the substitute driver for the No. 6 entry in the Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium while Brad Keselowski recovers from a leg injury. This prior engagement underscores the growing synergy between LaJoie and the RFK Racing organization.

The decision to field a fourth car for the Daytona 500 is a calculated one, driven by strategic imperatives for both RFK Racing and their manufacturer, Ford. "From a competition standpoint, having a fourth car gives us and Ford Racing a better chance to win the Daytona 500," stated Brad Keselowski, reflecting on the team’s strategic expansion. "It’s not just about adding another entry. Superspeedway racing is about cooperation and having an additional car allows us to be more effective in forming drafting alliances, controlling lanes, and putting ourselves in position when it matters most." This sentiment highlights the intricate teamwork and tactical maneuvering inherent in restrictor-plate racing, where coordinated efforts can significantly influence race outcomes.

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The last time RFK Racing entered four cars in the Daytona 500 was in 2012, a year that culminated in a triumphant victory for Matt Kenseth. The organization’s history of success in this particular event, coupled with the added resources and strategic depth provided by a fourth entry, signals a serious intent to contend for the coveted Harley J. Earl Trophy.

Should LaJoie successfully navigate the highly competitive field of open entries and secure a starting spot in the Daytona 500, it will mark his 277th career start at the NASCAR Cup Series level. This milestone would underscore his sustained presence and dedication to the sport.

For LaJoie himself, the opportunity represents a significant career advancement and a chance to compete with a top-tier organization on NASCAR’s grandest stage. "This is a dream come true to get an opportunity with RFK Racing at the Daytona 500," LaJoie expressed. "This is without a doubt, the best car and opportunity I’ve had at Daytona. I’m grateful for the trust they’ve placed in me." His enthusiasm and gratitude reflect the heightened expectations and the prestige associated with this particular racing program.

Providing primary sponsorship for LaJoie and the No. 99 Ford Mustang at Daytona will be Trimble. This partnership signifies a commitment from a key industry player to support RFK Racing’s ambitious endeavor in the season opener. The presence of a dedicated primary sponsor further solidifies the viability and seriousness of this four-car initiative.

The expanded RFK Racing effort in the Daytona 500 is a clear indication of the team’s commitment to reclaiming its place at the forefront of NASCAR competition. By leveraging the historical significance of the No. 99, the proven superspeedway prowess of Corey LaJoie, and the strategic advantages of a four-car operation, RFK Racing aims to make a significant statement in the opening race of the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season. The team’s approach underscores the evolving dynamics of modern NASCAR, where strategic alliances, manufacturer support, and individual driver talent converge in the pursuit of victory. The success of this multi-car strategy will be closely watched as the season unfolds, with the Daytona 500 serving as the ultimate proving ground for RFK Racing’s renewed ambitions.

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