NY Racing Team Overview
NY Racing Team is an American professional stock car racing team competing part-time in the NASCAR Cup Series. Founded in 2009 and owned by John Cohen, one of the few African-American NASCAR team owners in major touring series, the team fields the No. 44 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1. Based in Statesville, North Carolina, the team has used car bodies from Richard Childress Racing and engines by Hendrick Motorsports. Despite challenges with sponsorship and equipment, NY Racing Team remains active with notable partnerships and a return to Chevrolet in 2022.
Founding and Organizational Origins
The team was established in 2009 by Johnathan “John” Cohen, an African-American entrepreneur from New Jersey who began his business career in nightclubs and taverns. Cohen formed the team initially under the name Xxxtreme Motorsport, aiming to compete in NASCAR and bring diversity to the sport. The early operations were modest, focusing on building a competitive presence in stock car racing with limited resources.
Growth Into NASCAR Cup Series Competition
NY Racing Team entered the NASCAR Cup Series in 2012, debuting with the No. 44 car driven by David Reutimann. The team initially struggled with qualifying and performance but gradually expanded its operations. Partnerships with established racing organizations like Richard Childress Racing for car bodies and Hendrick Motorsports for engines helped improve competitiveness. The team also fielded multiple drivers part-time, adapting to sponsorship challenges and operational demands.
NY Racing Team Competitive Journey
NY Racing Team’s racing progression has been marked by persistence through sponsorship difficulties and operational hurdles. Starting in the Nationwide Series in 2009, the team moved into the Cup Series by 2012. While victories and pole positions have eluded them, the team has maintained a presence in NASCAR’s top level, often competing part-time and collaborating with other teams.
Early Seasons and Development (2009–2013)
The team debuted in the Nationwide Series in 2009, running part-time with drivers like Chase Austin and Josh Wise. Initial sponsorship from Macy’s and Cavi Clothing supported these efforts. In 2012, NY Racing Team entered the Cup Series with David Reutimann driving the No. 44 Chevrolet, but early races were marred by mechanical issues and early retirements. In 2013, Scott Riggs was hired as a full-time driver, and the team switched to Ford, but ongoing sponsorship challenges led to a midseason shutdown.
Breakthrough in NASCAR Cup Series (2014–2019)
The team returned in 2014 with J. J. Yeley as driver, facing continued struggles with qualifying and engine reliability. Despite setbacks, they completed races and achieved incremental improvements, including their first lead-lap finish in the 2015 Daytona 500 with Reed Sorenson. The team also faced adversity when their race equipment was stolen in 2015, impacting their season. Partnerships with teams like Premium Motorsports and Front Row Motorsports helped sustain operations. However, plans to run full seasons were often hindered by funding and logistical issues.
Modern Program and Current Direction (2020–Present)
After a hiatus, NY Racing Team returned to the Cup Series in 2022 with Greg Biffle driving the No. 44 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1. The team focused on sponsorship from historically black colleges and universities, marking a significant cultural milestone. They achieved their first top-twenty finish at Atlanta in 2022. In 2024 and 2025, the team continued part-time competition with drivers including J. J. Yeley, Derek Kraus, Brennan Poole, and Joey Gase. Despite challenges such as failing to qualify for the Daytona 500 and inspection issues, the team remains committed to competing and growing its presence in NASCAR.
Philosophy and Competitive Strengths
NY Racing Team emphasizes resilience and adaptability, often competing part-time with multiple drivers and leveraging partnerships to maximize resources. Their focus on Chevrolet machinery and collaboration with established suppliers supports their competitive efforts. The team excels in endurance and strategic race completion, aiming to build experience and visibility in NASCAR’s top series.
Key Milestones and Major Moments
Notable moments include the team’s Cup Series debut in 2012, first lead-lap finish in the 2015 Daytona 500, overcoming equipment theft in 2015, and the 2022 return with a culturally significant sponsorship focus. Achieving their first top-twenty finish in Atlanta 2022 marked a competitive highlight. The team’s persistence through operational challenges underscores its commitment to NASCAR racing.
NY Racing Team Achievements and Results
While NY Racing Team has yet to secure race victories or championships, their sustained participation in NASCAR’s top series and ability to field competitive entries under challenging circumstances are significant accomplishments. Their progress includes completing races, achieving lead-lap finishes, and maintaining a presence in a highly competitive environment.
NASCAR Cup Series Achievements
The team has competed in 44 Cup Series races since 2012, with no wins or pole positions to date. Their first lead-lap finish came at the 2015 Daytona 500. The team has shown steady improvement, including a top-twenty finish at Atlanta in 2022. Partnerships and manufacturer support have been key to their ongoing participation.
Nationwide Series Achievements
NY Racing Team ran part-time in the Nationwide Series in 2009 with the No. 58 car, fielding drivers such as Mike Harmon and Chase Austin. Sponsorship challenges led to a temporary shutdown after the 2009 season. The team has not recorded wins or championships in this series.
Series and Divisional Achievements
The team has not secured championships or divisional titles but has developed experience and visibility in NASCAR’s national touring series. Their continued efforts contribute to the diversity and competitiveness of the sport.
