Matt Kemp Bio
Matt Kemp (born January 25, 1999) is an American professional stock car racing driver known for competing part-time in the ARCA Menards Series. He drives the No. 9/10/12 Ford and Toyota vehicles for Fast Track Racing, showcasing his talents in various regional and national stock car events.
Early Life and Background
Matt Kemp was born in Sawyer, Michigan, United States. Growing up in Michigan, a state with a rich motorsports culture, he developed an early interest in racing. Kemp began his racing career in his mid-teens, gaining experience in local and regional racing series that helped shape his driving skills and competitive mindset.
While specific details about his education are not publicly documented, Kemp’s early exposure to racing and dedication to the sport laid the foundation for his professional career. His progression through the ranks reflects a focus on honing his craft in stock car racing disciplines.
Path to NASCAR
Kemp’s initial racing ventures included select starts in the Midwest Indoor Racing Series Arena-Mini Cup Division and the Vores Compact Touring Series North Division from 2014 to 2015. These early experiences provided valuable seat time and exposure to competitive racing environments.
He also made a start in the Great Lakes Super Mini Cup Series, further broadening his racing portfolio. These formative years allowed Kemp to develop racecraft and gain recognition, eventually leading to opportunities in higher-profile series such as the ARCA Menards Series, a key stepping stone toward NASCAR.
Matt Kemp Career
Early Career (2014–2015)
Matt Kemp began his racing career with select appearances in regional series including the Midwest Indoor Racing Series and the Vores Compact Touring Series. These early starts helped him build foundational skills and gain competitive experience in stock car racing.
During this period, Kemp also competed in the Great Lakes Super Mini Cup Series, which contributed to his development as a driver capable of handling diverse racing conditions and vehicle setups.
Midwest Classic Racers Series Breakthrough (2019–2022)
In 2019, Kemp competed full-time in the Midwest Classic Racers Series, driving the No. 1a car. He secured one race victory at South Bend Motor Speedway and consistently finished in the top ten throughout the season, culminating in a third-place finish in the overall points standings.
Between 2020 and 2021, Kemp improved his performance significantly, winning six races and finishing second in the points standings. His momentum continued into 2022, when he won seven races and maintained top-ten finishes in every event. Kemp clinched the Midwest Classic Racers Series championship that year, outperforming competitor Troy Hoffman by over fifty points.
Fast Track Racing Era (2023–Present)
Matt Kemp made his ARCA Menards Series debut in 2023 at Berlin Raceway, driving the No. 12 Ford for Fast Track Racing. Starting twelfth, he finished thirteenth due to a rear-end issue with the car. He also debuted in the ARCA Menards Series East at Iowa Speedway during a combination event, starting fifteenth but retiring early due to mechanical problems.
Kemp continued to compete in ARCA events with Fast Track Racing, including races at Kansas Speedway and Berlin Raceway, facing challenges such as car vibrations and mechanical issues. In 2024, he returned to the ARCA Menards Series East at Flat Rock Speedway, finishing sixth after starting in the same position. Kemp also participated in the season-ending race at Toledo Speedway, although mechanical difficulties limited his performance.
In 2025, Kemp made his superspeedway debut at Talladega Superspeedway, driving the No. 12 Ford for Fast Track Racing. Unfortunately, suspension issues resulted in a 35th-place finish, marking a challenging but significant milestone in his career.
Driving Style and Strengths
Matt Kemp demonstrates consistency and resilience, particularly on short tracks and regional circuits where he has achieved multiple wins and top-ten finishes. His ability to maintain competitive pace and adapt to mechanical challenges reflects strong racecraft and determination. Kemp’s ongoing partnership with Fast Track Racing provides a platform for continued development and strategic growth in stock car racing.
Notable Races and Milestones
Kemp’s championship win in the 2022 Midwest Classic Racers Series stands out as a career highlight, showcasing his ability to perform consistently across a full season. His ARCA Menards Series debut and subsequent participation in combination events and superspeedway races mark important steps in his progression toward higher levels of professional stock car racing.
Matt Kemp Career Wins
Matt Kemp has accumulated multiple race victories primarily in the Midwest Classic Racers Series, where he demonstrated consistent top-tier performance. His success in this series includes a championship title and numerous race wins that underline his competitive capabilities.
Midwest Classic Racers Series Highlights
Kemp secured one race win in 2019 at South Bend Motor Speedway and improved to six wins between 2020 and 2021. In 2022, he achieved seven wins and secured the series championship by a significant points margin. These accomplishments reflect his dominance and consistency in the Midwest Classic Racers Series.
Other Wins & Performances
While Kemp’s ARCA Menards Series appearances have been limited and affected by mechanical issues, his participation in these national-level events marks important experience gains. His debut at Talladega Superspeedway in 2025 represents a key milestone despite the challenges faced during the race.
Matt Kemp Family
Personal Life
Details regarding Matt Kemp’s family background, marital status, and personal life are not publicly documented. Kemp maintains a professional focus on his racing career, with social media presence supporting his engagement with fans and the motorsports community.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Matt Kemp expanded his racing portfolio by making his superspeedway debut at Talladega Superspeedway with Fast Track Racing. Although the race ended prematurely due to suspension problems, this event marked a significant step in his career progression. Kemp’s ongoing participation in ARCA Menards Series events reflects his commitment to gaining experience and improving performance at higher competition levels.
His relationship with Fast Track Racing continues to provide opportunities for growth, with plans to compete in additional ARCA Menards Series East races. Kemp’s focus remains on overcoming mechanical challenges and building momentum for future seasons.