Cole Custer, the reigning Xfinity Series champion and current points leader, is set to make a full-time return to the NASCAR Cup Series in 2025. The announcement was made by Haas Factory Team, a new organization being established by veteran team owner Gene Haas. Custer will drive the No. 41 Ford for the team.
Custer, 26, previously competed for the Stewart-Haas Racing team in the Cup Series from 2020 to 2022. In his debut season, he won Rookie of the Year honors after securing a victory and qualifying for the playoffs. However, he struggled in the following two years and was eventually demoted to the Xfinity program.
In his first season back in the Xfinity Series, Custer enjoyed tremendous success, winning three races and ultimately clinching the series championship. Currently, he leads the Xfinity standings by 51 points over second-place Justin Allgaier.
Haas expressed his confidence in Custer’s abilities, stating, “On his way to winning the Xfinity Series championship last year, Cole really carved out an identity for himself, both on and off the track. He has earned respect from his peers through his clean racing and genuine personality. We are thrilled to have him representing our team.”
Haas, a billionaire from California, has a long history in NASCAR. He initially formed a Cup team in 2003 before partnering with Tony Stewart to create Stewart-Haas Racing in 2009. Under SHR, the team won two championships and 69 races, establishing itself as one of NASCAR’s top organizations.
However, SHR recently announced its disbandment at the end of the current season. Haas retained one of SHR’s four charters, which ensures certain financial benefits, and established the Haas Factory Team. The new team will enter into a technical alliance with RFK Racing and receive additional support from Ford Performance.
In addition to the Cup Series, Haas Factory Team will also field two full-time Xfinity teams with support from Ford. Custer is excited about the challenge ahead, stating, “Haas Factory Team will essentially be a new race team next year, and it’s going to take all of us to build it into an organization that can go out and win races. I am ready for this opportunity.”
With Custer’s return to the Cup Series and the creation of Haas Factory Team, NASCAR fans can look forward to an exciting new chapter in the sport. The team’s partnership with RFK Racing and support from Ford Performance should provide a solid foundation for future success. As Custer continues to develop as a driver, his experience and determination will undoubtedly play a crucial role in the team’s growth and competitiveness on the track.