A Fresh Face in the Cup Series
Jesse Love, a 21‑year‑old Californian, is set to take the wheel of the No. 21 Ford for Wood Brothers Racing beginning in 2027, stepping into a seat that has seen a revolving door of drivers in recent years.
Love arrives after a breakout season in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, where he captured the championship and posted ten top‑10 finishes in just 17 starts, propelling him to second in the point standings.
The move marks a significant shift for Wood Brothers Racing, the oldest continuously active team in NASCAR’s Cup Series, which has fielded iconic machinery since 1950 and recently secured a coveted charter that guarantees a spot in every race.
Love will replace Josh Berry, a driver who has endured a challenging year with eight finishes of 30th place or worse, and the transition is further complicated by the recent loss of Kyle Busch, a circumstance that opened a pathway at Richard Childress Racing.
The 2027 roster will also feature Corey Heim, the defending Truck Series champion, among several newcomers, signaling a wave of fresh talent poised to reshape the competitive landscape.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Love’s youthful energy and proven skill translate to the premier series, as the sport braces for a season that could redefine its next chapter.