Andrés Pérez de Lara Joins Niece Motorsports for the Remainder of 2025
If you’ve been keeping an eye on NASCAR’s rising talents, then Andrés Pérez de Lara’s name should ring a bell. The 20-year-old speedster from Mexico City is carving out his space in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS) and, oh boy, his mid-season move to Niece Motorsports has the potential for big things.
A Young Prodigy with a Championship Pedigree
For the uninitiated, Andrés Pérez de Lara hasn’t just been cruising under the radar; he’s been performing like a storm nobody saw coming. He started his racing career at the tender age of 11. Pérez de Lara stormed the circuits of karting and eventually climbed his way up through Formula 4 and stock cars. Fast forward to 2024, the young talent made history by becoming the first driver from Mexico to clinch the ARCA Menards Series Championship.
Think about it. Most people his age are navigating college schedules, and here he is navigating ovals and road courses with finesse far beyond his years. But what else is new? Pérez de Lara is fresh off a stint with Rev Racing as part of NASCAR’s Drive for Diversity program, where he became a rookie sensation. With those accolades, it’s no wonder he’s gunning for major success in the NCTS as a Sunoco Rookie of the Year candidate.
Niece Motorsports Enters the Chat
Here’s where it gets spicy. Mid-season moves in racing can often be a recipe for disaster, or they can deliver fireworks. With eight races left in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series regular season, Andres Pérez de Lara now steps into the No. 44 Chevrolet Silverado for Niece Motorsports. How did the transition happen? Well, after his former team, Spire Motorsports, gave him clearance to field other opportunities outside their No. 77 entry, Niece Motorsports didn’t hesitate to snap him up.
CEO of Niece Motorsports, Cody Efaw, made it clear they’re all-in for the rest of 2025. “Adding Andrés to our talent arsenal is an enticing addition as we look to finish out the year strong,” said Efaw. Translation? They’re betting big that Pérez de Lara has the magic sauce to shake things up.
New Team, But Same Grit
Sure, there are challenges anytime a driver changes teams mid-season. New crew chief, new operations, and a whole new vibe to adjust to. However, Andrés Pérez de Lara doesn’t seem fazed. “Making a change mid-season always has its challenges,” he said. “But the team and I are working hard to be 100% by the time Richmond comes.” Seems like an awful lot of pressure.
What’s promising, though, is how motivated both the driver and his new team are. With a sharp focus on improving results and setting the foundation for a lasting partnership, all signs point to a solid rebound for the young racer. Plus, his longtime sponsors Telcel, Claro, and Infinitum are tagging along for the ride, so you know the usual support is still there.
The Road Ahead
What should we expect from Andres Pérez de Lara in these upcoming races? Well, the guy’s shown he can handle the pressure. Currently third in the rookie standings, this move to Niece Motorsports offers him just the boost he needs to close the season with his head held high. Richmond Raceway is his first test with the new team, and while it might not be a track he’s familiar with, pre-race readiness has been a focus. If there’s one thing we know, it’s that Andrés Pérez de Lara doesn’t back down from a challenge.
Why This Move Matters
Andres Pérez de Lara joining Niece Motorsports means more than just a shift in team gear. First, this move speaks volumes about his ability to adapt under pressure. Not every 20-year-old racing rookie can face the spotlight of both a team transition and the demands of competing in highly competitive races all in the same breath.
Also, for Niece Motorsports, it’s about positioning themselves to contend more aggressively in the Truck Series. And hey, adding a driver with championship pedigree can only make them stronger. Plus, Pérez de Lara perfectly embodies NASCAR’s commitment to diversity. He’s proof that talent transcends borders, and his success can lead to expanded representation for international racers in the sport.
Final Thoughts
If you weren’t already paying attention, now’s the time to tune in. Andrés Pérez de Lara’s partnership with Niece Motorsports could very well be the underdog story of the season. Fans of grit, determination, and all-around good racing will definitely want to keep their eyes peeled as he takes on Richmond and beyond. Buckle up, NASCAR fam, because things are about to get fun.
