“Made Me a Big Fan of His” – Dale Earnhardt Jr Reveals His Appreciation for the Outgoing Kaulig Racing Star

The season end brings forth one notable question of interest every year. And it doesn’t just concern the playoff champion. This is also the time for next year’s roster announcements, team changes, and all the juicy tidbits. Of course, some of these changes took place much earlier in the year. It was surprising to discover Kaulig Racing parting with its long-time Cup and Xfinity driver. But NBC analyst and veteran racer Dale Earnhardt Jr noticed an entirely different development with the racer.

It takes far more than raw talent to be noticed on a global platform. There are several skilled racers languishing in local circuits without visibility. Athletes often enhance their personality and approachability to attract sponsorships and endorsements. It makes them more relatable to their audience as well. However, every racer does not possess those inherent traits. And sadly, #31 Justin Haley was one of them. Here is why.

Kaulig Racing’s No. 31 driver sportingly accepted expert feedback

In his podcast, The Dale Jr Download, Dale Earnhardt Jr recalled his initial impression of the Kaulig racer. He remembered interviewing the introverted driver and only receiving clipped responses. NASCAR analyst Steve Letarte was among the people who suggested the racer needed to pay attention to his bankability.

Junior explained, “When I first started broadcasting, the only way that I got to know Justin was when we’d have him come to the peacock pit box during qualifying or practice. They bring the drivers up and we interview them. And that was literally my kinda introduction to him. He was really quiet and very brief with his answers.”

“And didn’t seem to you know he was a racer and not really that comfortable, I suppose, in that setting. I know that some friends of mine, one of them was Letarte, has shared advice with Justin over the years about how to manage those situations. And how important it was for him to kinda be marketing himself in those moments.”

Dale Jr was taken aback by the dedication and sincerity with which Haley obeyed those more experienced than him. The Hall of Famer couldn’t help but watch with awe at his transformation over the years.

Junior continued, “And man, did he take that advice to heart! Literally, I watched him make the adjustments and become more personable. That really impressed me. I was so thankful and glad to see that. And it made me a big fan of his.” 

Consequently, Dale Earnhardt Jr did not hesitate in expressing how he felt about Justin Haley’s team decision.

Watch This Story: Dale Earnhardt Jr’s Dilemma: Losing a Prized Pupil to Spire Motorsports

Dale Earnhardt Jr backed Justin Haley’s future Cup Series potential

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In July this year, Rick Ware Racing confirmed Justin Haley’s switch to their team for the 2024 season. The multi-year deal included driving full-time Cup Series in their Ford Mustang. It would also mark his move from Chevrolet to Ford. The #31 driver was looking forward to working with RWR, particularly because of their alliance with Brad Keselowski’s RFK Racing.

Haley has a staunch supporter in Dale Jr. The Xfinity champion was convinced of Haley’s unmet potential. Junior believed the Cup racer needed the right environment and team to boost his career. He knew RWR could easily become that turning point in Haley’s career.

Dale Jr opined, “I think he’s a good driver, I think he can do it. I think in the right situation he can win races for the right team. And he’s got a long journey to get to that point. And I don’t think he’s making a wrong decision by going to Rick Ware Racing.”

Read More: NASCAR Community Bands Up to Congratulate Kaulig Racing Star as They Welcome 7lbs A.J. Allmendinger 2.0

It would be exciting to watch Justin Haley reinvent himself in a Ford vehicle next season.