Juan Pablo Montoya has been rumored to be planning a return to the NASCAR Cup Series by the end of 2024. This probable comeback is hinted at in a recent video posted by 23XI Racing on their X account (see below). The video confirmed an additional race for the team’s part-time No. 50 car this season, but did not disclose the driver, leaving fans humming with anticipation. However, there were lots of indicators, all of which pointed to Montoya, a sporting legend. Looking back at Montoya’s illustrious NASCAR career, he made 255 Cup Series starts between 2006 and 2014. During these years, his driving ability shone through, particularly with victories at significant tracks such as Sonoma and Watkins Glen. Furthermore, in 2009, he not only qualified for the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, but also finished eighth in the Cup Series points standings, a career high. Aside from NASCAR, Montoya has had a successful racing career in a variety of sports, including the 1999 CART championship, Formula 1 and IMSA Championship championships, and victories at the Indianapolis 500 and 24 Hours of Daytona.
23XI Racing has shared the No. 50 car with a number of part-time drivers, most recently Travis Pastrana and Kamui Kobayashi. For the 2024 season, the vehicle has been used by drivers such as Corey Heim. Montoya is expected to drive at one of the final road courses this season, specifically Watkins Glen or Charlotte. If the legend returns to his seat while waving goodbye to the No. 50 vehicle, it could be one of the year’s most memorable spectacles.
Final ride for the 50 car… guess who’s next pic.twitter.com/x7PGixAdMw
— 23XI Racing (@23XIRacing) August 1, 2024
Montoya’s return to NASCAR, particularly in a potentially competitive car like the No. 50, will be a real delight for both fans of the sport and of him. His broad experience and shown performance in several racing leagues make He was a formidable adversary, and equipped with the 50, he could probably cause some harm.
If this rumor about his return is real, it will not only increase spectator interest and attendance, but it may also influence the race. If this happens, I expect the sport to have a lot of eyes on the race, as will the team.
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