In his new position with the group, Kenseth, the 2003 Cup Sequence champion and 2023 NASCAR Corridor of Fame inductee, will present steerage and technique in competitors areas whereas serving as a mentor to drivers Erik Jones and John Hunter Nemechek, who will be a part of the staff subsequent season.
Staff co-owners Jimmie Johnson – with whom Kenseth raced with in Cup for many of his profession – and Maury Gallagher introduced Kenseth’s addition on Tuesday.
“Jimmie and I’ve a lot respect for one another as each rivals and associates – we’re alike in some ways and at comparable factors in our careers,” stated Kenseth.
“It is a nice alternative for me to be a useful resource for 2 extraordinarily proficient drivers and assistance on the racing operations facet with this transition to Toyota. I’m actually wanting ahead to seeing what we will accomplish collectively.”
Johnson and Kenseth had a down-to-the-wire battle for the 2013 Cup title. Kenseth received seven races throughout that season – Johnson received six – however after chasing one another for a number of weeks, Kenseth completed second within the standings as Johnson received his sixth profession title.
“Not solely is Matt a wonderful driver and a fierce competitor, he’s additionally an ideal pal,” Johnson stated. “This alliance makes a lot sense. Matt is extraordinarily sensible, has labored with Toyota whereas racing for Joe Gibbs Racing, and remains to be as aggressive as ever.
“He’s a natural-born athlete and as match as I’ve ever seen him. I’m so glad he’s prepared to share his data and expertise with us, and we sit up for all Matt has to supply.”
Matt Kenseth, Roush Fenway Racing, Ford Fusion #DoYouKnowJack
Photograph by: Rusty Jarrett / NKP / Motorsport Images
Kenseth and Joey Cohen, LMC’s vice chairman of racing operations, additionally labored collectively at Roush Racing when Cohen was an engineer for the staff.
“Matt goes to assist make this transition to Toyota clean,” stated Cohen. “He is likely one of the finest drivers on the market, and regardless that he’s not behind the wheel, his perspective and recommendation can be essential heading into subsequent season for each our drivers and crews.”
Kenseth stepped away from full-time competitors in 2020. Over the course of his 20-year Cup profession, Kenseth amassed 39 victories and received the 2003 collection championship, the final determined below a non-playoff format.
Kenseth is a two-time Daytona 500 champion, the 2000 Rookie of the 12 months, a Southern 500 winner, a Coca-Cola 600 winner, and the 2004 Worldwide Race of Champions (IROC) champion.
