Joe Gibbs Racing’s Driver Admits to Speedway Struggles as He Starts His New Journey

Sheldon Creed, the 2020 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series champion, endured a tumultuous journey filled with triumphs and challenges. In a whirlwind of adrenaline at the recent United Rentals 300, Creed navigated the twists of Daytona International Speedway. Despite a deluge of caution flags, more than seen in the previous Daytona 500 on the same day, Creed weaved through the wreckage with finesse, showcasing his mastery behind the wheel.

Adding to the drama, Creed’s remarkable performance saw him clinch a formidable second-place finish, trailing closely behind his former racing teammate, Austin Hill.

Creed’s start with Joe Gibbs Racing marks a significant milestone in his career, transitioning from his previous stint with Richard Childress Racing to the renowned powerhouse team led by Joe Gibbs.

Sheldon Creed throws light on his first outing with Joe Gibbs Racing

Fresh off the intense Xfinity battle, Creed opened up to Frontstretch. As he acknowledged the intensity of the Daytona Speedway, Creed’s sentiments echo a blend of satisfaction and determination. Despite falling just short of victory, his consecutive podium finishes underscore newfound consistency in his performance.

“I mean, it’s good right? That’s three 2nds in a row going back to last year so. Found some consistency which is nice. Just need to keep working hard and keep running smart races,” said Creed. Last year, driving for RCR, he secured second place in both the Xfinity playoffs at Daytona and the final race at Phoenix.

His candid admission of the challenges faced during the race revealed the complexities of speedway racing. “Just really hard to get track position all night,” he admitted, shedding light on the strategic hurdles encountered on the track. With sixth and third-place stage finishes, his strategic acumen shines through, culminating in a thrilling second-place finish.

As Creed sets his sights on future races, including Atlanta, Vegas, and Phoenix, his determination remains unwavering. Now, his journey with Joe Gibbs Racing promises to be a compelling saga of resilience and triumph on the Speedway circuit.

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Why is this a potential start of a fierce rivalry between RCR and JGR?

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Last year, on October 11th, even before the playoffs race at Martinsville, team RCR issued a formal statement stating: “Sheldon Creed will not be returning as driver of the #2 Whelen Camaro in the NASCAR Xfinity Series in 2024. We will make an announcement regarding the driver of the #2 Whelen Chevrolet in the near future.”

Sheldon had been a member of the RCR squad for two years at that point and without any official win. Huge speculation surrounded the team at the time with supporters even accusing RCR of nepotism. Sheldon Creed’s admission shortly after Richard Childress Racing’s statement had fans questioning who was in the right. It appeared from the RCR release that they had decided to dissolve the alliance. However, Sheldon made it rather evident in his statement that his team decided to depart RCR after the conclusion of the 2023 season.

Creed later spoke about it to NASCAR.com, stating “I don’t know, I think a lot of things play a role, I’ve been happy. We’ve had OK runs, but I felt like it was time for a change for me just to switch things up a bit.”

It was revealed on December 13, 2023, that Creed will be the full-time driver of the No. 18 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota in Xfinity. 

With him already having a bad taste in his mouth because of the whole RCR debacle from last year, he now stands at the door of a potential rivalry with former teammate and current RCR driver, Austin Hill, who took away the win from him this past Monday. 

If this feud comes to life, who will you be rooting for in the Xfinity Series?