James “Jake” Finch Jr. Bio
James “Jake” Finch Jr. (born June 16, 2005) is an American professional stock car racing driver. He has competed part-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, driving the No. 17 Chevrolet Camaro SS for Hendrick Motorsports. Finch has also raced part-time in the ARCA Menards Series and ARCA Menards Series East, showcasing his talents across multiple stock car racing platforms.
Early Life and Background
Jake Finch was born in Lynn Haven, Florida, United States. He grew up in a racing environment, as his father, James Finch, owned the former NASCAR Cup Series team Phoenix Racing. Before focusing on racing, Finch was active in baseball during his school years. He attended A. Crawford Mosley High School and graduated in 2023.
Finch began racing go-karts at a young age, developing his skills early in motorsports. His family background provided him with unique exposure to racing operations and team management, which influenced his career path.
Path to NASCAR
Finch started his racing career in late model stock cars in 2020, driving for Anthony Campi Racing. He won his first late model race by dominating and leading the most laps, followed by two second-place finishes. His early success demonstrated his potential in stock car racing.
In 2021, Finch drove several late model races for Phoenix Racing, the team owned by his father that had been revived after a previous sale. He expanded his experience by competing in the SRL Southwest Tour in 2022, gaining valuable seat time and exposure to competitive racing circuits.
James “Jake” Finch Jr. Career
Early Career (2020–2021)
Finch’s initial foray into late model racing was marked by immediate success, including a win in his first start. Driving for Anthony Campi Racing, he quickly established himself as a promising young talent. His association with Phoenix Racing in 2021 allowed him to continue developing under the guidance of his family’s team, gaining experience in various late model events.
ARCA Menards Series and ARCA Menards Series East Breakthrough (2022–Present)
In 2022, Finch made his ARCA Menards Series East debut with Phoenix Racing at Five Flags Speedway, marking the team’s return to NASCAR-sanctioned events since 2013. Later that year, he signed with Venturini Motorsports for select ARCA Menards Series and East races, driving the No. 25 Toyota Camry and No. 55 car respectively.
Returning to Phoenix Racing for the East Series race at Nashville, Finch started on pole, led 44 laps, and finished second, demonstrating his competitiveness in the series. His performances in ARCA have been notable for strong qualifying efforts and consistent race pace.
Hendrick Motorsports Era (2024–Present)
Finch joined Hendrick Motorsports to compete part-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, driving the No. 17 Chevrolet Camaro SS. In 2024, he secured a significant victory at the General Tire 200, marking a major milestone in his racing career. His debut in the Xfinity Series was officially announced in 2025, with plans to race at Dover International Speedway.
His association with Hendrick Motorsports positions him within one of NASCAR’s premier teams, providing opportunities to develop his skills at higher levels of competition and gain exposure to top-tier racing environments.
Driving Style and Strengths
Finch has shown strong qualifying speed and racecraft, particularly on short tracks and intermediate ovals. His ability to lead laps and maintain consistent pace has been evident in ARCA and late model competitions. His development is supported by experienced teams and crew chiefs, enhancing his strategic approach to racing.
Notable Races and Milestones
Finch’s victory at the 2024 General Tire 200 stands out as a career highlight. His pole position and runner-up finish at Nashville in the ARCA Menards Series East further underscore his rising profile. These performances have established him as a promising young driver to watch in stock car racing.
James “Jake” Finch Jr. Career Wins
Jake Finch has achieved notable wins in late model racing and the ARCA Menards Series, including a significant victory in the 2024 General Tire 200. His career is marked by strong qualifying efforts and competitive finishes across multiple series.
ARCA Menards Series Highlights
Finch’s ARCA Menards Series career includes competitive starts with Venturini Motorsports and Phoenix Racing. His 2024 General Tire 200 win is a key highlight, demonstrating his ability to compete and succeed at higher levels of stock car racing.
Other Wins & Performances
In late model racing, Finch won his first race in 2020 driving for Anthony Campi Racing, leading most laps and showing early dominance. He has also competed in the SRL Southwest Tour, gaining valuable experience in regional stock car events.
James “Jake” Finch Jr. Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Jake Finch is the son of James Finch, former owner of Phoenix Racing, a NASCAR Cup Series team. This family connection has provided him with unique insights into racing operations and team management from an early age, influencing his path in motorsports.
Personal Life
Finch was active in baseball before focusing on racing and graduated from A. Crawford Mosley High School in 2023. Public information about his personal relationships or residence is not available.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Jake Finch is set to make his NASCAR Xfinity Series debut with Hendrick Motorsports, driving the No. 17 Chevrolet Camaro SS. This season marks a critical step in his career as he transitions to higher levels of competition. Expectations include gaining experience on diverse tracks and competing against established drivers.
His relationship with Hendrick Motorsports and crew chiefs will be pivotal to his development and results. The season outlook is positive, with opportunities to build momentum and establish himself as a competitive driver in the Xfinity Series.
