Jesse Love, the 2025 O'Reilly Auto Parts Series champion, has agreed to drive the iconic No. 21 Ford for Wood Brothers Racing in the 2027 NASCAR Cup Series, a move that promises to reshape the team’s lineup.
Love enters the new ride second in the current points standings, trailing veteran Justin Allgaier, and brings a versatility forged through campaigns with Toyota, Chevrolet and now Ford, having already proven his adaptability across different manufacturers.
A New Chapter at Wood Brothers Racing
Jon Wood, president of Wood Brothers Racing, highlighted Love’s impressive résumé and the potential he brings to the storied organization, emphasizing that the partnership is built on a shared ambition to return the No. 21 to its former glory.
The transition marks the end of Love’s tenure at Richard Childress Racing, where he had been viewed as a possible successor, and his arrival signals a fresh direction for a team that has faced a challenging 2026 season with Ford’s overall performance.
While Ford’s broader campaign has struggled this year, Love remains optimistic that the combination of his driving skill and the resources of Wood Brothers Racing can translate into consistent results and a competitive future for the No. 21 program.