After spending the last two seasons primarily competing overseas in the NASCAR Whelen Euro Series, Ryan Vargas is looking to take his racing endeavors north of the border, with plans to run the majority of the NASCAR Canada Series schedule in 2025.
Along with long-time partner Critical Path Security, Vargas will join forces with DJ Kennington Racing to pilot the No. 28 Dodge Challenger, with the intention of finding additional sponsorship to fight for the championship.
If successful in contesting the entire 12-race campaign in 2025, Vargas will become the first American-born driver to run for the championship in the NASCAR Canada Series. While still under the CASCAR sanction, Andy Farr was the last American to run for the title in 2001.
“The NASCAR Canada Series has been one that I’ve wanted to compete in for quite some time now,” said Vargas. “I’ve watched DJ [Kennington] and his team have incredible success over the last several years, and when it became evident that Critical Path and I wanted to make this jump north, I knew he’d be the team I’d call.”
“It means the world to me to continue representing Critical Path Security on an international stage; last year we had a blast in Euro NASCAR, collecting a category win and several podiums and I hope to continue improving on that performance with DJK Racing on the Canadian side.”
The 24-year-old driver will be taking on an International NASCAR Series schedule for the second consecutive year, after running full-time in the NASCAR Euro Series and collecting a top-10 finish in final points.
“It’s really special getting the chance to expand my portfolio outside of the [United States] and get the chance to race on some of the world’s best circuits. This year, with the Canadian schedule having more ovals than Europe and aligning with DJ’s team, I believe this is one of the best opportunities I’ve had to be competitive in NASCAR.”
Since what was formerly known as CASCAR moved under the NASCAR sanction in 2007, DJ Kennington is the only driver to have competed in every single event, making 216 starts in the NASCAR Canada Series, while collecting 24 wins and a pair of championships.
Kennington finished last season’s campaign fourth in final point standings.
“I am very excited to work together [with Ryan Vargas], share knowledge and make our program the best I can be,” said Kennington. “Excited for Ryan’s expertise in social media and online formats which will take our program to a higher level.”
Critical Path Security, a loyal partner of Ryan Vargas throughout his racing journey both in the United States and internationally, is excited about the partnership for the 2025 NASCAR Canada Series campaign.
“Our journey with Ryan Vargas in Europe was nothing short of extraordinary, and we’re excited to continue this partnership closer to home, partnered. Partnered with Critical Path Security – Canada,” said Patrick Kelley, CEO of Critical Path Security. “Ryan embodies resilience, skill, and the competitive spirit that aligns perfectly with our company’s mission and values. Sponsoring him in the NASCAR Canada Series provides an exceptional platform to showcase our innovative cybersecurity solutions to a passionate North American audience.”
The 2025 NASCAR Canada Series will begin its season at Canadian Tire Motorsports Park on May 18 in Bowmanville, Ontario. Coverage of every event in the NASCAR Canada Series will be live on REV TV in Canada and on YouTube in the United States.
