Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s JR Motorsports is making its historic NASCAR Cup Series debut attempt at the 2024 Daytona 500, with Justin Allgaier piloting the No. 40 Traveller Whiskey Chevrolet.

The team, co-owned by Dale Jr. and his sister Kelley Earnhardt Miller, will partner with Hendrick Motorsports for engine supply and feature Greg Ives as crew chief. The sponsorship deal came through country music star Chris Stapleton, owner of Traveller Whiskey, who initially approached Rick Hendrick about NASCAR opportunities.

Allgaier, the reigning Xfinity Series champion, must qualify for the race as the team doesn't possess a charter. If successful, it would mark JR Motorsports' first Cup Series start in its history.

"I'm approaching this like it's a one-and-only opportunity — a dream come true," said Earnhardt Jr., who plans to be present for every moment of the historic attempt, from car preparation through race day.

JR Motorsports has been a powerhouse in the Xfinity Series since 2005, accumulating:

• 88 race wins
• 4 driver championships (Chase Elliott, William Byron, Tyler Reddick, Justin Allgaier)
• Multiple Truck Series victories

While the team has primarily focused on the Xfinity Series, this Daytona 500 entry represents a significant milestone for the Earnhardt family, particularly given their history of success at the track. The No. 40 car will be one of seven Open teams attempting to qualify for the prestigious race.

"This is the perfect situation. The right moment," said Earnhardt Miller, emphasizing the special significance of competing at Daytona, a track deeply connected to the Earnhardt racing legacy.

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