Jesse Love, the 2025 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series champion, is set to make his Cup Series debut behind the wheel of the No. 21 Ford Mustang for Wood Brothers Racing beginning in 2027.
The partnership pairs a rising star from Menlo Park, California, with one of NASCAR’s most venerable organizations, a team that has logged over a century of victories and remains the sport’s longest‑running active outfit.
Love’s trajectory has been meteoric; he captured the ARCA Menards Series title at 16, followed by a second consecutive O’Reilly Auto Parts Series championship, and currently sits second in this year’s standings.
His upcoming role will see him contest the 2027 DAYTONA 500 at Daytona International Speedway, a milestone that underscores the confidence placed in his abilities by both the team and its technical allies.
Wood Brothers Racing will benefit from a technical alliance with Team Penske and the engineering expertise of Ford Racing, a collaboration that could accelerate the development of the new program.
Jon Wood, president of Wood Brothers Racing, praised Love’s achievements, noting that the driver’s blend of youthful vigor and proven success aligns perfectly with the team’s legacy of excellence.
The move also signals a broader shift in the series, as younger talent continues to reshape the competitive landscape, bringing fresh perspectives and heightened expectations to each race.
A New Chapter for a Historic Team
The decision to field Love in the iconic No. 21 reflects a strategic blend of tradition and innovation, aiming to preserve the team’s storied heritage while embracing the next generation of drivers.
Fans can anticipate a season filled with anticipation, as Love’s debut will be closely watched not only for performance metrics but also for the narrative it adds to NASCAR’s evolving story.