“I can only begin to explain how fortunate I am to be joining LFR,” said Matt DiBenedetto in the team release. “The thought of being reunited with Toyota and the folks at TRD is just unbelievable for me and my family. This is the biggest opportunity of my life and it’s a dream come true to be a part of a team that continues to elevate their program at the highest level of NASCAR. No words can describe my gratitude to everyone who believes in me. I’ve had to fight so hard, the old school way, to get here and that will always make me appreciate this amazing opportunity. When I got the phone call from Bob (Leavine) and Jeremy (Lange, LFR General Manager) I was speechless. My wife and I both had tears of joy and it was a very emotional moment that we will always cherish. I look forward to making everyone proud next year, working day and night with my team to show people what we are made of.”
DiBenedetto will be the fifth different driver to pilot the No. 95 since 2014. Michael McDowell piloted the No. 95 on a part-time basis from 2014 through 2016. Ty Dillon shared the No. 95 with McDowell in 2016 before McDowell took over full-time in 2017. Kasey Kahne moved to the organization in 2018 before having medical issues after Darlington which forced him out of the car 11 races before the season ended. Regan Smith has filled in for Kahne and will continue to pilot the car through the end of 2018.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Matt (DiBenedetto) to our organization,” said Bob Leavine, Owner of Leavine Family Racing. “We feel that he’s going to be a great addition to the team with his great personality and experience on track within the series. It’s a tremendous feeling to know that we’re also able to announce our alignment with JGR and TRD for next season as well. Obviously, they’re both first-class organizations and proven winners, so for us to be able to align with them is a huge step for our organization. I’m excited as we continue to work ahead for 2019 thanks to getting Matt as our driver and Toyota as our manufacturer.”
Along with the fifth different driver, Toyota becomes the third different manufacturer to team with Leavine Family Racing. The team made their debut in Cup with Ford and spent 2011-2015 with the Blue Oval. From 2016-2018 the organization aligned with Chevrolet and Richard Childress Racing.
“Toyota welcomes LFR to our racing family and we look forward to seeing the No. 95 Camry on track in the 2019 MENCS season,” said Laura Pierce, General Manager for Motorsports, TMNA. “They are a talented and well-run organization with the commitment to improve their competitiveness in this sport. The addition of a driver like Matt DiBenedetto and his enthusiasm and dedication to excelling on the race track will certainly make a positive impact on the team” (Koelle,2018)
Photo Credit: Brandon Wright/Brandon Wright Photography
Comments
Post a Comment