Cole Custer has carved a path through the world of NASCAR that’s nothing short of extraordinary. Throughout his racing career in all the NASCAR national series, he’s achieved remarkable feats, but perhaps none as significant as his recent accomplishment – becoming a NASCAR champion.
In his return season to the Xfinity Series in 2023, Custer displayed unwavering determination and skill, outdueling tough competitors like Justin Allgaier, Sam Mayer, and John Hunter Nemechek in the Xfinity Series Championship 4 at Phoenix Raceway. This victory marked a special moment for Custer, who had spent the previous three seasons in the Cup Series, driving the No. 41 Ford for Stewart-Haas Racing. However, a strategic move by the organization’s leadership brought him back to the Xfinity Series, igniting high expectations for the No. 00 team.
The 25-year-old driver wasted no time in proving that his return to Xfinity was a wise decision. He established consistency during the spring season, accumulating an impressive streak of 11 consecutive top-10 finishes, starting at Richmond Raceway in early April and extending through early July at Atlanta Motor Speedway. This consistent run was the longest in Custer’s career and set the stage for what would become a championship-winning season. Notably, the No. 00 team clinched victory on road courses, first in a thrilling race at Portland International Raceway and then by leading every lap in the inaugural Chicago Street Race, despite the race being cut short due to weather conditions.
The momentum continued into the playoffs, as the team consistently secured finishes of sixth place or better in the opening four races, rapidly advancing to the Round of 8. However, the defining moment of Custer’s championship journey came at Martinsville. In a dramatic and frenzied finish, his car was involved in a multicar incident, forcing him to skillfully put the car in reverse to cross the start/finish line, all while his car was catching fire. After some nerve-wracking moments to confirm the scoring, the efforts were enough to secure a spot in the Championship 4.
Finally, at Phoenix Raceway, Cole Custer achieved what he had set out to do – win the championship. This victory marked his first title in three Championship 4 appearances, having been a runner-up twice before. In 2018, he had won the opening two stages but lost the title due to a late pit strategy call. In 2019, he was again a bridesmaid, finishing second to Tyler Reddick.
Custer’s journey through NASCAR has been nothing short of remarkable. In 2020, he made a significant leap to the Cup Series, replacing Daniel Suárez, and made an immediate impact by being the only rookie to secure a win, triumphing at Kentucky Speedway. This victory not only propelled him into the playoffs but also ensured he would be named Rookie of the Year, surpassing competitors like Tyler Reddick and Christopher Bell.
This season’s Xfinity Series championship win holds special significance for Stewart-Haas Racing as well. It’s the team’s first championship at the Xfinity Series level, and it marked their first NASCAR championship victory since 2014 when Kevin Harvick secured the title. Cole Custer’s journey from the Cup Series back to Xfinity and his triumphant championship victory is a testament to his talent, determination, and the unwavering support of his team. It’s a story that will be remembered in the annals of NASCAR history.