Trackhouse Racing will enter its third season in the NASCAR Cup Series with Ross Chastain in the No. 1 car while Daniel Suarez continues to pilot the No. 99 car. However, this is another vehicle left open as of now.
The organization announced PROJECT91, which is a program designed for intentional drivers or competitors in other racing series to have a competitive opportunity in the Cup Series, such as Kimi Raikkonen at Watkins Glen International in 2022.
There were rumors that Trackhouse Racing could go outside of road courses for the 2023 season and potentially field the entry in the Daytona 500. But, those hopes were squashed on Tuesday afternoon.
Related: 5 best drivers Trackhouse Racing could run in the No. 91 car
Trackhouse Racing won’t enter the No. 91 car in the Daytona 500, focusing on road courses
Trackhouse Racing has previously discussed the possibility of the No. 91 car entering the Daytona 500 or Coca-Cola 600. These discussions were centered around Jimmie Johnson before he became an owner/driver at Legacy Motor Club, previously Petty GMS Motorsports.
With Johnson out of the way, the organization was then linked to three-time Indianapolis 500 winner Helio Castroneves for the Great American Race. This came after Castroneves won an event in the Camping World SRX Series last season.
Team owner Justin Marks released a statement on social media regarding the No. 91 car’s plans for the 2023 season amid the neverending rumors.
(Trackhouse Racing) took a hard look at the Daytona 500 with PROJECT91 but at the end of the day, decided to focus on the road courses and the 1/99 at (Daytona International Speedway). We have some exciting PROJECT91 stuff being finalized.”
Justin Marks on Trackhouse Racing’s plans with the No. 91 car in 2023
The statement above clearly indicates Castroneves will not be competing in the No. 91 car for the 2023 Daytona 500. This means The Money Team Racing, as previously reported, is likely the move if he truly wants a seat at the table.
Meanwhile, it is important to note that PROJECT91 is undoubtedly going to bring major recognition to the NASCAR world. Marks has previously stated the goal is for the No. 91 car to compete in six to eight races this season.
Raikkonen drove the entry in its only start during the 2022 season but the expectations are much higher for this year. There will clearly be major names coming to NASCAR soon and it will be massive for everyone.