Jesse Iwuji Announces Return to the Xfinity Series with DGM Racing
In an announcement early Tuesday, DGM Racing confirmed that part-time driver Jesse Iwuji will return to the Xfinity Series to run in the Ag-Pro 300 at Talladega. In Saturday’s race, he is set to pilot the No. 91 Chevrolet Camaro. Iwuji is no stranger to NASCAR, having also run in the Camping World Truck Series, ARCA Menards, the Whelen-All American Series, and the K&N East and West Series.
The 37-year-old impressively has 17 starts in the Xfinity Series in a career spanning less than five years. He’s run with some of the biggest names in the industry, including MBM Motorsports, Mike Harmon Racing, and Jesse Iwuji Motorsports. Iwuji’s inaugural race in the Xfinity Series was in 2020 in the Henry 180 at the famed Road America Course in Plymouth, Wisconsin.
Iwuji went on to race for 3 more years before calling it quits. Iwuji’s last run was at Daytona in 2023, ending in a disappointing P30 finish. He also attempted to qualify at Talladega in 2022 and 2023, but failed. Is his return to the Xfinity Series and Talladega Superspeedway a shot at redemption?
Why Jesse Iwuji’s Talladega Comeback is Special
Jesse Iwuji’s return to the Xfinity Series is special for many reasons, not just redemption. The Reserve officer has always had an affinity for cars, particularly Chevrolet. In fact, while he was on active duty in the U.S. Navy, he became fascinated with cars, grabbing any chance he could to participate in motorsports events. Iwuji’s enthusiasm helped his career in motorsports come full circle, ultimately leading to his start with Performance P-1 Motorsports in the Whelen All-American Series.
It’s safe to say Iwuji has always had a deep-seated passion for racing, so it’s not surprising that he decided to trickle back in. Iwuji is eager for the week ahead in preparation for the Ag-Pro 300 at Talladega Superspeedway. He recently revealed that he enjoys spectating and learning from other drivers, which is what continues to fuel his passion for NASCAR. More than anything, however, he’s excited to get back behind the wheel.
The No. 91 driver also mentioned that he knew he’d be returning when the opportunity presented itself. Additionally, he capitalized on the excitement for his inaugural comeback run at a historic track like Talladega. Capping off his statement, he thanked DGM Racing and his partnership with Chevrolet. Jesse Iwuji is set to be sponsored by Chevrolet Accessories, the eRacing Association, and Lincoln Electric for his upcoming run.
“The DGM x JIM team has excellent drivers whom I enjoy cheering on and learning from,” “I must admit, however, I’ve been looking forward to getting back behind the wheel and I have stayed ready for when an opportunity would present itself,” Jesse Iwuji said of his upcoming run at Talladega.
“It’s amazing to get back at such a storied track like Talladega Superspeedway, where anything can happen. I’m beyond thankful for our partnership between Chevrolet and DGM x JIM, and all the other folks who have been amazing throughout this journey,” he added.
A Paint Scheme Fit For a Hero
To mark Jesse Iwuji’s momentous Xfinity Series comeback, his No. 91 Chevrolet will be donned with a patriotic paint scheme. The U.S. Navy veteran who spent two tours on the amphibious warfare ship USS Comstock uses the red, white, and blue paint scheme to honor fallen soldiers’ memories. The car will also feature the National Memorial Day Parade emblem as additional homage to the heroes who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.
The National Memorial Day Parade is an annual event in Washington, D.C. that honors veterans and fallen heroes. It features celebrity appearances, live entertainment, active duty officers, veterans, and marching bands. Jesse Iwuji has plans to attend the May 26 event, and yes, his patriotically dressed car will be a part of the festivities.
Final Thoughts
Jesse Iwuji’s return to the NASCAR Xfinity Series has surprised the racing world, but it is an honor for many to have a true American patriot back behind the wheel. Iwuji represents the ultimate sacrifice and brings a piece of that with him into his comeback run in Talladega. However, he struggled to qualify at the Superspeedway in 2022 and 2023. His best Xfinity Series finish was P27 at the 2022 Beef. It’s What’s for Dinner 300, but he’s determined to make that a distant memory. Will Talladega open a new chapter?
