Front Row Motorsports obtains charter, will field 3 Cup Series teams in 2025

Front Row Motorsports announced Wednesday it has obtained a charter and will field three NASCAR Cup Series teams in 2025.

FRM confirmed to Dustin Long of NBC Sports it purchased the charter from Stewart-Haas Racing, which announced Tuesday it will shut down operations after the 2024 season.

Statement from Owner, Bob Jenkins and General Manager, Jerry Freeze regarding the 2025 season: pic.twitter.com/GjvxWslF51

— Front Row Motorsports (@Team_FRM) May 29, 2024

“We have a very positive outlook on the future of NASCAR and as the sport plans for success, so do we,” FRM owner Bob Jenkins said in a statement. “Today that means having a plan for expanding back to three cars in the NASCAR Cup Series. I always have the vision to continue to grow and improve our team and that commitment and desire never changes. I am committed to the sport and its passionate fans and partners.”

Front Row Motorsports expanding following closure of Stewart-Haas Racing

Who exactly will be piloting the three Cup Series cars has yet to be decided. FRM currently operates as a two-car team with Michael McDowell in the No. 34 Ford and Todd Gilliland in the No. 38 Ford. McDowell is joining Spire Motorsports next season while Gilliland is expected back. FRM also said it will continue its CRAFTSMAN Truck Series program.

“It is good to get the news out now as we have a lot of work to do to prepare a new team,” FRM general manager Jerry Freeze said. “All of us on the leadership team will be working through that, obtaining the parts and pieces needed for the new team. And, most importantly, adding to the dedicated and talented staff and culture that exists today within our organization.

“Starting a new team from scratch is always a challenge, but with the opportunities in front of us, the talent we have in our leadership, and a bit of a runway to get there, I am confident that we can produce three competitive programs out of the box for the 2025 season. We haven’t lost sight of what our goals for 2024 are, to get our teams into the playoffs for both series. If we can keep up the speed on track and have a little bit of luck to come our way, we can achieve our objectives.”

FRM last fielded three Cup Series in 2019 with McDowell, David Ragan and Matt Tifft serving as full-time drivers. Chase Briscoe, Noah Gragson, Josh Berry and Ryan Preece are among the drivers looking for a new Cup Series ride in 2025 following the closure of SHR.