Juan Pablo Montoya has been teased to be gearing up for a return to the NASCAR Cup Series by the tail end of 2024. This potential comeback is hinted at in a recent video released by 23XI Racing on their X account (below).
The video announced an additional race for the team’s part-time No. 50 car this season but left fans buzzing with anticipation by not revealing the driver. However, there were plenty of signs, and they all point toward Montoya – a legend within the sport.
Delving into Montoya’s storied NASCAR career, he raced in the Cup Series from 2006 to 2014, marking 255 starts. Within these years, his skill behind the wheel shone through, particularly with victories at key tracks like Sonoma and Watkins Glen. On top of this, he left a significant mark in 2009 when he not only qualified for the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup but also sealed a career-best eighth in the Cup Series points standings.
Beyond his NASCAR career, Montoya has enjoyed a successful racing career across various disciplines—from being the 1999 CART champion to clinching titles in Formula 1 and the IMSA Championships, and even celebrating victories at the Indianapolis 500 and the 24 Hours of Daytona.
23XI Racing has shared the No. 50 car with several drivers for its part-time entries, including Travis Pastrana and Kamui Kobayashi in recent times. For the 2024 season, the vehicle has seen action with drivers like Corey Heim. It’s said that Montoya might take the wheel for one of the remaining road courses scheduled this season—specifically at Watkins Glen or Charlotte.
This could create one of the greatest spectacles of the year if the legend returns to his seat while waving goodbye to the No. 50 car.
Montoya’s return to NASCAR, especially in a possibly competitive car like the No. 50, will be a serious treat for fans of the sport and of him. His extensive experience and proven success in various racing leagues make him a formidable competitor, and armed with the 50, he could certainly do some damage.
Should this rumor of his return actually be true, it would not only spike viewer interest and attendance, but it could also shape the race. I expect the sport is going to have plenty of eyes on the race if this does come to fruition, and the team itself is going to have plenty of coverage.
Reacting to the post by 23XL Racing, a number of X users are excited to see the return of the Columbian driver.
“JPM. Here we go,” says one. Another adds: “Holy s*t is that Montoya.”
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