NASCAR Silly Season News: Brad Perez Makes Grand Xfinity Entry Replacing Dale Earnhardt Jr’s Nephew

Hot news from Xfinity Series highlighted yet another exciting update as the silly season nears its conclusion. Unlike any other previous seasons, the money maneuvers for the 2024 season were spot on as teams scrambled to get themselves the best drivers and partners by cutting massive deals. The latest news suggests a new driver in the Alpha Prime Racing stable who will take up Dale Earnhardt Jr‘s nephew’s place.

Skilled road racing ace, Brad Perez is getting his dream shot this year. The 26-year-old will be at the helm of the No. 45 Chevrolet Camaro for Alpha Prime Racing at the Circuit of The Americas Xfinity Series race on March 23rd. While the JR Motorsports co-owner’s nephew, Jeffrey Earnhardt had a tough time in the promotion, with an average starting position of over 30 and an average finish of over 25, the team has roped in youngster Perez for select races starting in COTA.

Young gun Perez lands his dream opportunity at the expense of Dale Earnhardt Jr’s nephew’s ride

2023 was in no way a smooth ride for Jeffrey Earnhardt, son of Kerry Earnhardt (brother of Dale Jr). The 34-year-old finished 27th in the rankings and also failed to clinch a single top-10, top-5 or pole positions in his 2023 resume. To make matters worse, the #44 driver also had to endure 7 DNFs that made his dismal season even more depressing.

Even before the season finale, the team announced its 2024 plans, releasing Jeffrey Earnhardt, leaving him stranded. While the rumors of him joining Dale Jr at JR Motorsports gained traction, no official confirmation has solidified the news. On the other hand, Alpha Prime Racing has roped in Perez who has a total of seven NASCAR Xfinity Series races and five NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series events over the last two seasons.

He will also be named as the team’s official reserve driver for 2024 while Xfinity Series sensation and Late-Model racer, Brennan Poole will take up Earnhardt’s seat in the #44 Chevy. Speaking to SiriusXM NASCAR, Perez relayed the awesome news, sharing his delight to be a part of the Chevy-partnered organization.

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“Grateful” Perez shares his delight about the dream opportunity

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Besides serving as the team’s development driver and reserve for its 2024 campaign, Perez will also be assisting them with simulator setup. While Perez’s first race details have been announced, the rest of the driver’s schedule is yet to be revealed. He will retain his long-time sponsor and partners Weiss Sand & Clay LP and Apex Coffee Roasters for the event.

Elated about the opportunity, he said, “I’m grateful for the opportunity to progress my career with Alpha Prime Racing, this is a great environment for me to learn from veterans on this squad and show my talent. I’m excited to get to COTA in our Weiss Sand & Clay Camaro and have a good day and grow on what we accomplished at Road America last year.”

READ MORE: Dale Earnhardt Jr’s Nephew Out of Seat for 2024 After Yet Another Disappointing Season

He also shared that if everything falls into place, he is close to securing the funding needed for the Chicago Street Course event.