On Friday, AM Racing announced that Harrison Burton will be joining the team next season to pilot its premier Ford in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
After spending three seasons in the NASCAR Cup Series with Wood Brothers Racing, Burton is set to make his return to the Xfinity circuit. During his time in the Cup Series, he achieved his first major series victory last month at Daytona International Speedway and secured his inaugural playoff berth at the age of 23.
In a team release, Burton expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I’m excited to join AM Racing and help build it into the race-winning team I believe it can and will be. I think this will be a great opportunity for me to take the lessons I’ve learned in the Cup Series, bring those to the Xfinity Series, and strive to be the best driver I can be.”
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AM Racing commenced its second season of competing in the Xfinity Series with Hailie Deegan behind the wheel of the No. 15 entry on a multiyear contract. However, the team and driver parted ways in early July. Since that time, the organization has seen a series of substitute drivers in the seat, including Cup Series regulars Joey Logano and Josh Berry.
During his earlier tenure in the Xfinity Series from 2019 to 2021, Burton secured four wins and made the postseason in both of his full-time seasons with Joe Gibbs Racing. His move to the renowned Wood Brothers No. 21 team brought him to the Cup Series in 2022, marking a shift in manufacturer allegiance from Toyota to Ford.
Burton placed 27th and 31st in the standings during his first two seasons in the Cup Series. In July, the Wood Brothers announced that Berry would take over his position in 2025. Burton marked his exit from the organization with a memorable Daytona event, celebrating its 100th premiere-series victory, which also granted him his first shot at the Cup Series Playoffs.
Following his breakthrough victory, Burton referred to his status for the upcoming season as “fluid,” uncertain about which series might be his home in 2025. He added, “I feel like I’m in a place now where the opportunities I will have in the future genuinely want me as a race car driver to help them win races.”
Currently, Burton is positioned 16th in the Cup Series Playoffs standings, trailing the provisional elimination line by 20 points. He aims to maintain his postseason eligibility in Saturday’s Bass Pro Shops Night Race (7:30 p.m. ET, USA, NBC Sports App, PRN Radio, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio), which serves as the finale for the Round of 16 at Bristol Motor Speedway.
# Harrison Burton Joins AM Racing for 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series Season
Harrison Burton, a rising star in the world of NASCAR, has officially joined AM Racing for the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series season. This significant move has generated buzz among fans and experts alike, as Burton looks to solidify his place in the competitive landscape of stock car racing. In this article, we will delve into the details of this announcement, explore what it means for both Harrison Burton and AM Racing, and analyze the potential impacts on the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
## The Announcement: Key Details
Harrison Burton’s transition to AM Racing comes as part of a strategic effort by both the driver and the team. Here are some notable points regarding this exciting partnership:
– **Team Background**: AM Racing, known for its commitment to nurturing young talent, has been a growing presence in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. The team has set its sights on competing at a higher level, and bringing in a driver like Burton is a crucial step in that direction.
– **Contract Duration**: Harrison Burton’s contract with AM Racing is set for multiple seasons, allowing for stability and the opportunity to build a strong team dynamic.
– **Crew and Support**: AM Racing has pledged to provide Burton with a robust support system, including experienced crew members, advanced technology, and resources aimed at enhancing performance on the track.
## Harrison Burton: Career Overview
### Early Career Highlights
Harrison Burton, born on October 9, 2000, in Huntersville, North Carolina, has made significant strides in his racing career. Here’s a brief look at his journey so far:
– **ARCA Menards Series**: Burton made waves in 2017 when he secured his first victory in the ARCA Menards Series, showcasing his talent at a young age.
– **NASCAR Truck Series**: He transitioned to the Truck Series, where he garnered attention with impressive finishes and established his reputation as a promising driver.
- **NASCAR Xfinity Series**: In 2020, Burton made his debut in the Xfinity Series, driving for Joe Gibbs Racing. He quickly became known for his competitive spirit and skill behind the wheel.
### Recent Performance
In the past few seasons, Harrison Burton has demonstrated his ability to compete with the best in the Xfinity Series, consistently finishing in the top 10 and earning accolades for his driving prowess. Some of his notable achievements include:
– Multiple top-5 finishes in major races.
– A reputation for being a fierce competitor in both restrictor plate races and road courses.
– His ability to adapt to various track conditions.
## What This Move Means for AM Racing
### Strengthening the Team
Bringing in Harrison Burton is a strategic move for AM Racing. Here are some benefits that this partnership offers:
– **Enhanced Visibility**: With Burton’s growing fan base, AM Racing can expect increased visibility and marketability. This can lead to more sponsorship opportunities and fan engagement.
– **Competitive Edge**: Having a driver of Burton’s caliber can elevate AM Racing’s performance on the track, allowing them to compete more effectively against established teams.
- **Development of Talent**: Burton’s experience and skills can serve as a mentorship opportunity for younger drivers in the AM Racing pipeline, fostering a culture of growth and mentorship within the team.
### Financial Implications
With increased visibility and the potential for better performance, AM Racing can also anticipate financial benefits:
– **Sponsorship Growth**: Attractive sponsorship packages are likely to emerge, given Burton’s appeal in the racing community.
– **Merchandising Opportunities**: AM Racing may also see growth in team merchandise sales due to Burton’s popularity.
## The NASCAR Xfinity Series Landscape
### Overview of the Series
The NASCAR Xfinity Series is known for being a proving ground for drivers aiming to make it to the sport’s top tier. Here’s what makes the series unique:
– **Diverse Competition**: The series features a mix of veteran drivers and newcomers, creating a competitive environment that showcases a broad range of driving styles.
– **Technical Challenges**: The Xfinity Series presents various track types, including superspeedways and road courses, requiring drivers to continually adapt and refine their skills.
– **Fan Engagement**: The series has a passionate fanbase, often leading to lively atmospheres at races and a strong online presence.
### Key Competitors to Watch
With Harrison Burton joining AM Racing, here are some key competitors in the NASCAR Xfinity Series to keep an eye on:
| Driver | Team | Notable Achievements |
|———————–|————————-|——————————-|
| Noah Gragson | JR Motorsports | Multiple race wins |
| Ty Dillon | AJ Allmendinger Racing | Xfinity champion contender |
| Austin Cindric | Team Penske | Previous champion |
| Justin Allgaier | JR Motorsports | Consistent top performer |
## Benefits of Joining AM Racing
### For Harrison Burton
Harrison Burton’s move to AM Racing comes with several advantages:
– **Focused Development**: AM Racing aims to develop its cars and drivers, which aligns perfectly with Burton’s aspirations to grow as a driver.
- **Team Culture**: Joining a team that prioritizes talent and growth can foster a positive and motivating environment for Burton.
– **Opportunities for Growth**: The chance to take on leadership roles within the team can enhance Burton’s experience and confidence.
### For AM Racing
The partnership also provides critical benefits for AM Racing:
– **Increased Performance**: With a talented driver like Burton, AM Racing can work towards improved race finishes and overall standings.
– **Youthful Energy**: Burton brings a fresh perspective and enthusiasm that can invigorate the team’s dynamics.
– **Enhanced Reputation**: Signing a well-regarded driver boosts AM Racing’s credibility in the industry.
## First-Hand Experience: What to Expect from Harrison Burton
Fans and team members alike can expect great things from Harrison Burton as he joins AM Racing for the 2025 season. Here’s what makes him stand out:
### Driving Style
Harrison is known for his aggressive driving style, particularly in high-pressure situations. His ability to make quick decisions will be invaluable during races.
### Team Player
Burton’s reputation as a team player means he will actively engage with his crew and fellow drivers, contributing to a cohesive team environment.
### Commitment to Excellence
Harrison’s commitment to constantly improving and pushing his limits ensures that he will work tirelessly to deliver results for AM Racing.
## Conclusion: A New Chapter for Harrison Burton and AM Racing
Harrison Burton’s move to AM Racing marks a pivotal moment in both his career and the team’s future. As he gears up for the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series season, fans can anticipate an exciting journey ahead, filled with competition, growth, and the pursuit of excellence. The partnership promises to create a buzz in the NASCAR community, and we can expect to see Harrison Burton making waves on the track in the seasons to come.
Stay tuned for more updates on Harrison Burton and AM Racing as they prepare for what promises to be an exciting season in the NASCAR Xfinity Series!
