J.J. Yeley is set to make his long‑awaited return to the NASCAR Cup Series after a 12‑race absence, taking the wheel of the No. 44 Chevrolet for NY Racing Team at Michigan International Speedway.
The FireKeepers Casino 400 will be broadcast live on Amazon Prime Video this Sunday, June 7, at 3:00 p.m. ET, giving millions of viewers a chance to see the veteran behind the wheel.
Yeley, now in his 22nd full‑time season in the Cup Series, has logged more starts for NY Racing Team than any other driver over the past three years, underscoring his deep ties to the organization.
The No. 44 car has struggled this year, failing to qualify for the Daytona 500 for the third consecutive season, a setback that makes Yeley’s upcoming appearance all the more significant.
His most recent Cup race came in February at Atlanta, where he finished 27th for Rick Ware Racing, and he previously contested a Cup event at Michigan in 2023, placing 27th for the same team.
Beyond the Cup Series, Yeley has earned part‑time experience in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series with Hettinger Racing, RSS Racing and Young’s Motorsports, where his performances have kept Ford’s presence active in the sport.
A comeback timed for the Midwest
The Michigan race will mark a pivotal moment for NY Racing Team, which has operated as a part‑time entry in the Cup Series, fielding the No. 44 Chevrolet on a semi‑regular basis.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching to see whether Yeley can translate his extensive experience into a competitive run on the 2.0‑mile track, a venue where he previously finished 27th just two years ago.
With the season’s midpoint approaching, the race could influence playoff picture dynamics and add another chapter to Yeley’s storied career.