Fans, NASCAR, and Twitter are all in for Erik Jones as he replaces Bubba Wallace as Richard Petty Motorsports recruits the driver for legendary Car #43.
In a statement from Richard Petty Motorsports, the racing company announces Erik Jones’ recruitment today. The legendary NASCAR company seems thrilled to welcome Jones to their iconic team. Following Bubba Wallace, Jones will now race the No. 43 Chevrolet Camaro that made Richard Petty infamous.
Richard Petty Motorsports (RPM) announces today that Erik Jones will join the organization in 2021 as the driver of the No. 43 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE in the NASCAR Cup Series (NCS), made famous by NASCAR Hall of Famer Richard Petty.
“Erik is an exceptionally talented driver, and we are excited to have him join our team,” Brian Moffitt, chief executive officer at Richard Petty Motorsports, said. “At only 24-years old, Erik is part of NASCAR’s next generation of stars. He has won races at every level in NASCAR he has competed in – including in the NASCAR Cup Series. Erik is a proven winner and we look forward to providing him with the opportunity to add more wins to this already impressive resume.”
Jones has signed a multi-year driver agreement with the team.
Richard Petty Motorsports
The press statement goes on to state what NASCAR fans know in their hearts. “The most successful drivers are inseparably linked to the car numbers they have had the most success with. No number has any stronger recognition in NASCAR history than the legendary No. 43 with Richard Petty.”
Twitter Congratulates Erik Jones on Joining #43 Legacy
Fans might have expected controversial racer Bubba Wallace to be bitter. Wallace, however, is all in:
Wallace has turned many heads as a result of his personal politics. In turn, the Twitter account for BEAM Designs throws shade at his exit. While congratulating Jones, as well, of course:
#43 itself is also celebrating Jones’ recruitment with an official video.
“It’s just two numbers… four… and three,” the video rolls. “But to racing fans – it’s the number. And today – a new era begins.”
Many fans are much more excited for the upcoming racing season as a result of Jones’ recruitment. But no one is more elated than Jones himself.
His promotional team hits Twitter with a solid promo reel. Within, Jones can be heard saying that securing a win within #43 “is the ultimate goal for next season”. Although the reel feels a bit overly-serious, it goes a long way in solidifying his team’s excitement:
Perhaps the best reaction, however, comes from Twitter account @NascarSarcasm:
You can read the full press release & announcement by visiting RPMotorsports.com.
[H/T Twitter]