Viking Motorsports is preparing for a transformative 2025 Xfinity Series season, with a major manufacturer switch and an alliance with one of NASCAR’s most storied teams at the heart of it all. The announcement comes on the heels of reports confirming their gutsy decision to commit the cardinal sin as they jump ship from Ford to join Chevrolet, with technical support from Richard Childress Racing (RCR).

Adding to the chatter is their adoption of the #99 and an all-new team logo on the way, signaling a fresh identity for the up-and-coming team.

Why Viking Motorsports chose Chevrolet and RCR

While the shift has sparked plenty of speculation, Viking’s leadership is urging fans to trust in the team’s vision. As team owner Don Sackett put it in a candid Facebook post, “We’re building a long-term program around Matt [DiBenedetto]. The key is to develop our own tech, get sim from Chevy when we can, and build a solid team.” But before we move ahead, let’s have a closer look at Viking Motorsports.

The decision to part ways with Ford wasn’t made lightly, as Viking Motorsports reportedly explored alliances with multiple manufacturers. According to Sackett, the options were limited. “Toyota didn’t have an engine for us—they’re fully booked,” he explained, citing the limited number of Toyota-powered cars in the Xfinity Series. “Ford, on the other hand, wanted $1.3 million per year for an alliance with Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR), but we wouldn’t get any setup data, sim time, or spare parts. That’s not a long-term sustainable plan.”

Chevrolet, although not without its challenges, emerged as the “least bad option,” as Sackett described it. Their alliance with RCR provides access to advanced technology and support, though Sackett acknowledged the crowded Chevy field. “We realize it’s a crowded field with Chevy, but we have the best driver. If we build a solid team around the driver, we will be fine,” he said.

Viking’s partnership with RCR also brings logistical changes. The team will relocate to Mooresville, North Carolina, where they’ll operate out of a new facility. Leadership is currently finalizing other key upgrades, including a crew chief and car chief, as they prepare for the season ahead.

The decision to field the #99 adds another layer of intrigue. While the number has seen success in NASCAR’s past, Viking’s choice represents a fresh chapter for the team. Sackett’s confidence in DiBenedetto as the cornerstone of this program underscores their commitment to long-term growth. “You’re going to have to trust us,” he told fans.

Fan reactions and Matt DiBenedetto’s role

Trending

Kyle Busch and Wife Samantha End Three-Year Long Struggle for Their Most Awaited Experience

Test Your Sports Knowledge!

Solve the puzzle and showcase your expertise.

Play Now!

NASCAR Warned of Catastrophic Loss After Offending Michael Jordan & Co in Lawsuit

Tony Stewart’s Wife Leah Pruett Sacrifices NHRA Desire With 4-Word Reality Check

News of Viking’s switch has sparked varied reactions from fans, many of whom understand the team’s rationale. “Sounds fair enough,” one fan commented. “It makes sense why so many teams run Chevy. If Toyota is only supporting X number of cars, then you can’t do much. Meanwhile, RCR hands out alliances like candy if you’ve got the cash.” Others expressed curiosity about why Ford wasn’t willing to provide more comprehensive support.

Chevrolet’s accessibility also played a crucial role in the decision. Fans have pointed out that RCR has a reputation for being open to alliances, having recently supported teams like Kaulig Racing and Big Machine Racing. By comparison, Toyota’s limited engine supply and Ford’s high costs made them less viable options for a growing team like Viking.

Much of the discussion has centered on Matt DiBenedetto, who was announced as Viking’s driver earlier this year. The 33-year-old’s career has been a rollercoaster, marked by brief flashes of brilliance and moments of controversy. After finishing 26th in the 2024 Xfinity standings with RSS Racing, DiBenedetto now finds himself as the focal point of Viking’s ambitious plans.

Supporters highlight his ability to elevate underperforming teams, pointing to his past stints with Go Fas Racing and Leavine Family Racing in the Cup Series. “Every team he has driven for in the past 5-8 years he has elevated, and then the team declined when he left,” one fan argued. “I don’t understand people who run down Matt’s ability. He has proven many times to be a very decent racecar driver who can really elevate a program like this.”

For instance, DiBenedetto’s tenure with Leavine Family Racing in 2019 included near-wins at Daytona and Bristol, but the team struggled to replicate that success after his departure.

Critics, however, remain skeptical, often citing DiBenedetto’s controversial exit from Wood Brothers Racing (WBR) in 2021. While his tenure there included playoff appearances and multiple near-wins, it ended on a sour note, with poorly judged public comments overshadowing his on-track performance. Still, others argue that his experience and affordability make him a practical choice for a mid-pack Xfinity team looking to establish itself.

“Is he great? No. Is he awful? No,” one fan summed up. “Anyone better than DiBenedetto is either already racing in Cup, or in a top Xfinity/Truck ride and doesn’t want to go take a risk for a team like this. For the flak he gets, he can wheel a racecar for sure and is a great driver to build something like this around.”

As Viking Motorsports prepares to embark on its Chevrolet-backed journey, the team’s leadership has placed its faith in a dicey strategy—one that hinges on a collaborative alliance, an overhauled structure, and a driver who, for all his polarizing qualities, has proven his ability to compete.