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Can Wyatt Miller live up to the Earnhardt legacy, or is it too much pressure for him?

For the past two decades, JR Motorsports (JRM) has been more than just a racing team. It’s a launchpad for young and talented drivers with dreams of NASCAR stardom. And of course, backed by iconic brands. As Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Kelley Earnhardt Miller continue to push JRM into the future, they’ve strategically brought in partners who share their dedication to family, community, and a genuine love for the sport. Now, in a move that combines passion for racing with the spirit of adventure, one of NASCAR’s most loyal partners is returning to fuel the dreams of two JRM prodigies in 2025.

Connor Zilisch and Wyatt Miller have earned major backing. Wyatt Miller, grandson of the legendary Dale Earnhardt Sr., is steadily carving his way into motorsports with the help of a strategic partnership.

KOA’s Partnership with Dale Earnhardt Jr. Prodigy and Kelley Earnhardt Miller’s son 

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KOA will return in 2025 as a primary partner for Connor Zilisch’s No. 88 Chevrolet for one Xfinity Series race, as well as an associate sponsor throughout his rookie season. Additionally, KOA will sponsor Kelley Earnhardt Miller’s son, Wyatt Miller, in his Micro Sprint endeavors. In an Instagram post, JRM uploaded a Zilisch picture above the No. 88 Chevy with the KOA logo all over, captioning, “Goin’ Kamping with Connor once again. Kampgrounds of America, Inc. returns to JR Motorsports in 2025, serving as a primary sponsor for Connor Zilisch and the No. 88 Chevrolet. In addition, KOA will serve as an associate partner on up-and-coming driver Wyatt Miller’s Micro Sprint.

KOA’s Senior Vice President of Marketing, Diane Eichler, emphasized NASCAR’s fan demographic’s affinity for outdoor activities. “NASCAR fans have a strong connection to the outdoors, with 40% more likely to own an RV, according to MRI Simmons research,” Eichler said. Because over a third of NASCAR fans intend to take three or more camping trips per year, JRM and KOA are hoping to use this opportunity to connect with their respective fan bases and expand their reach.

As announced by the team, Connor Zilisch will drive the No. 88 Chevrolet in the 2025 Xfinity Series. Since Dale Earnhardt Jr. drove the No. 88, fans expect a prodigy to follow in his footsteps. JR Motorsports CEO Kelley Earnhardt Miller expressed her appreciation for KOA’s continued support, saying, “As a longtime KOA Rewards camper, I am thrilled for the continuation of our partnership into 2025. We are looking forward to a great season with KOA for both Wyatt and the No. 88 with Connor as we continue to work to expand this relationship.This partnership is also helping Wyatt Miller‘s career.

What’s your perspective on:

Can Wyatt Miller live up to the Earnhardt legacy, or is it too much pressure for him?

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It comes with a lot of pressure being Dale Earnhardt’s grandson, but Wyatt embraces it with his usual energy and focus. Known as “The Thriller” for his dynamic racing style, Wyatt is already captivating NASCAR fans. Although his journey isn’t just about speed and spectacle, his mom places a lot of emphasis on hard work and patience. “We’re from a legacy family. The expectations are high,” she admitted, pondering the Earnhardt name. Wyatt represents a new generation of Earnhardt talent, one who respects the past while shaping the future.

The Micro Sprint Series is a great stepping stone for budding racers and Wyatt is backed by KOA. Besides financial support, this collaboration creates a bond between a young driver and a sponsor who shares his values. As Wyatt builds his racing resume, JR Motorsports strengthens his ties to racing to build a foundation that the Earnhardt legacy has long championed.

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Regardless, KOA’s sponsorship is only an example of all the work JRM does. Let’s take a look at what the sponsorship entails.

Bass Pro Shops and JRM’s Expanding Sponsorship Network

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The renewal of KOA’s partnership comes shortly after the October 1, 2024, renewal of JRM’s long-standing partnership with Bass Pro Shops. This partnership, which is deeply rooted in the Earnhardt legacy, shows JRM’s commitment to building relationships with brands that matter. Wyatt Miller’s 600cc Micro Sprints and late models will be sponsored by Bass Pro Shops in 2025, as well as Carson Kvapil‘s #1 Chevy for the #23 Xfinity Series race in 2025.

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Dale Earnhardt Jr. praised Bass Pro Shops as both a brand and a partner in the renewal. Kelly Earnhardt Miller said the collaboration with Bass Pro Shops means so much to the Earnhardt family and JRM, saying, “Working with Bass Pro Shops is incredibly special and means a lot to us.” Kvapil and Miller get competitive resources from the renewed sponsorship but JRM’s driver development program is expanding its reach.

Getting more exposure from Bass Pro Shops is great for Miller and Kvapil joining the Xfinity Series full-time is a big deal for JRM’s driver development program. By partnering with Bass Pro Shops and KOA, JRM is able to focus on nurturing young drivers and setting them up for success in NASCAR’s premier series and at regional races.

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