JR Motorsports expands, adds Truck Series team

The NASCAR team co-owned by Dale Earnhardt Jr. is expanding its operation into the Camping World Truck Series.

JR Motorsports will field a truck for Cole Custer in 10 races during the 2015 season, beginning with the March 28 event at Martinsville Speedway. Custer, who turns 17 later this month, will drive the No. 00 Chevrolet with sponsorship from Haas Automation. He will also drive in select ARCA and K&N Pro Series East events for JR Motorsports.

The move marks the first time JRM has expanded outside the Xfinity Series (formerly the Nationwide Series) where it fields three teams. Chase Elliott won the Xfinity title in 2014, JRM’s first NASCAR national series championship.

“This is a new and exciting venture for us,” said team co-owner Kelley Earnhardt Miller. “We have come a long way since racing street stocks in 2002, and we are constantly evolving. Expanding into the truck series on a part-time basis is furthering our growth. Bringing in a talent like Cole and a great partner like Haas Automation is a great way to do that. I’m proud of the direction we’re heading.”

Custer competed in nine races last season, recording one win, two top-five and six top-10 finishes. He became the youngest winner in a NASCAR national series event when he won at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.

“I’m so excited to get this season started,” Custer said. “With all that JR Motorsports has accomplished over the past few years, we know we have everything needed to go win races and compete. I couldn’t ask for a better opportunity with a better organization. I really want to thank Haas Automation, along with Kelley and Dale Jr., for putting this deal together.”