Josh Berry’s rise to NASCAR’s top level is a story of perseverance and determination. The Hendersonville, Tennessee, native began his career in late-model stock cars. Grassroots racing events were the glass ceiling for him till he caught the attention of Dale Earnhardt Jr. But even then, he had to spend a decade with JR Motorsports in the Xfinity Series, where he honed his skills and earned multiple victories. 

Yet, somehow, despite all of this, a full-time Cup series opportunity eluded Josh Berry till 2021. But that’s when luck shined on him. But what happened in 2021, you ask? He finally made his debut with Stewart-Haas Racing. But even that luck didn’t last for long once Stewart-Haas closed operations at the end of 2024. So, what now?

Well, as Berry found himself at the crossroads, an opportunity came in the offer of a lifetime contract. That too from the Wood Brother racing. NASCAR’s longest-running team. And now? With just five races this season, Berry already delivered his end of the promise by securing his first career Cup Series win at Las Vegas Motor Speedway—a track where he had tasted success in the Xfinity Series. So when a post-race interview came calling, Berry took his sweet time relishing in the glory and the tales of his journey. But did he have to say?

First is always special; just ask Josh Berry

Josh Berry’s first NASCAR Cup Series win at Las Vegas Motor Speedway was a culmination of perseverance, strategy, and execution. Despite not having the fastest car, Berry capitalized on opportunities and overcame challenges to secure the victory. “Yeah, I just, you know, really just trying to soak it all in honestly. We had a really solid day. A solid car. We’re in contention today. I don’t know if we were the best car but we are really solid,” Berry said post-race, reflecting on the effort his team put into the race.

The race wasn’t without its hurdles for Berry and his No. 21 Wood Brothers Racing team. A pit road mistake early in the event set them back, but Berry credited his team’s determination for helping them recover. “We just… had that mistake on the pit road and we just put our heads down and kind of tried to fight our way back into it,” he explained. This resilience paid off when a timely caution allowed the team to execute a strategy that put Berry in contention during the final laps.

Berry’s battle for the lead with Joey Logano (a 3x NASCAR Cup Champion) and Daniel Suárez (the only Mexican driver to win in the NASCAR Cup Series) showcased his composure under pressure. “The whole strategy thing, kinda, it opened up the door where we were able to stay out there one time and me and Joey were battling so hard for the lead,” Berry recounted.

His ability to manage fuel while maintaining pace was critical as he navigated through a tense finish. When asked about his mindset during those moments, Berry admitted, “I was honestly hoping it was going to be green; stay green. I was just trying to manage myself a little bit better.”

The pivotal moment came during the final caution when Berry’s pit crew delivered an exceptional stop that placed him on the front row for the restart. From there, it was a fierce battle with Suárez for the win. “Man, that was a battle with Daniel, but we were able to get it done,” Berry said with pride. His team’s flawless execution in critical moments highlighted their growth and synergy since joining forces at the start of 2025.

For Berry, this victory is more than just a personal milestone—it’s a testament to his journey from late models to NASCAR’s highest level. He acknowledged how much he has learned in his short time with Wood Brothers Racing. “Now that I have a year under my belt…the biggest thing I am trying to remember is to trust those around because they’re really smart and not overthink it,” Berry concluded.

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A legacy of opportunities—Wood Brothers Racing

Wood Brothers Racing, the oldest active team in NASCAR, has long been synonymous with giving talented drivers a chance to shine. Founded in 1950 by Glen, Leonard, Delano, Ray Lee, and Clay Wood, the team has built a reputation for nurturing talent and fostering innovation. Despite never winning a championship, their iconic No. 21 car has become a symbol of perseverance and excellence in NASCAR. Over the years, the team has provided opportunities to drivers who went on to become legends, including David Pearson, Dale Jarrett, and Dan Gurney.

Josh Berry’s recent victory at Las Vegas Motor Speedway is the latest chapter in this storied legacy. Berry joined Wood Brothers Racing for the 2025 season after Stewart-Haas Racing shuttered its operations. Driving the No. 21 Ford Mustang, Berry has embraced the opportunity to represent one of NASCAR’s most historic teams. Berry also took his time to ponder his time with the Woods Brothers Racing as well as Team Penske.

He mentions, “I have an amazing group around me…the biggest thing I am trying to remember is to trust those around because they’re really smart and not overthink it.”  But then again Berry is not the first one who was graced by the benevolence of the Woods Brothers. After all, if you thought that the team stayed so long at NASCAR just on the back of nostalgia then you must be mistaken.

In fact, before they had the tag of the oldest, they were among the pioneers when it came to innovation and adaptability. Don’t believe us? Well, what if we tell you that their 1960s collaboration with Ford was the reason pit stops were revolutionized? But that’s not all. Woods Brothers racing has always one of the go-getters, despite having a single-car operation.

This again hasn’t been a fluke. This is simply a testament to the talent, hard work, and resilience that the 75-year-old team has. Yes, you heard that right; the team will be celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. And with Josh Berry’s Vegas win, we are once again reminded why they have been a NASCAR institution for so long. From innovations to opportunities, they have a legacy par excellence. And for Berry and the No. 21 car, this victory is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting season ahead.