Ryan Vargas will not return to JD Motorsports in the NASCAR Xfinity Series for 2023, announcing on Monday that he will be leaving the team with immediate effect, via a social media statement.
The La Mirada, California-native has competed for JD Motorsports for all but one of his starts in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, first joining the team for his series debut in 2019. Over the last two seasons, Vargas has served as the anchor driver of the No. 6 Chevrolet Camaro.
“I have made the decision to leave JD Motorsports following my final contracted race with this team this past weekend at Martinsville,” the statement reads. “This decision was not an easy one to make, but as the year progressed, it became clear to me that I was ready to take a leap of faith and turn the page on this chapter of my racing career and life.”
The 22-year-old was originally scheduled to be full-time for JD Motorsports this season, but a lack of sponsorship forced the family-run organization to place funded drivers into the ride in select events, leaving Vargas on the sidelines.
“I would like to thank Johnny, the entire Davis family, and his team for nearly four years of experience both in the garage and behind the wheel. With two top-tens and numerous top-20 finishes, we accomplished a lot and proved we can compete.”
Possibly the highlight of Vargas’ tenure with JD Motorsports came earlier this season at Daytona International Speedway when Vargas survived the chaos to bring home a career-best sixth-place result. Entering the season-finale, Vargas sits 25th in series standings.
“For 2023 and beyond, I look to position myself in a new environment where I can be utilized as an asset both behind the wheel and within the business operations of a team,” the statement continues. “While my plans are still in the air, you will still see me behind the wheel of a race car and I am confident I will be able to land on my feet and make the most of the next opportunity.”
My statement on leaving JD Motorsports. pic.twitter.com/nD5HHdKXTO
— Ryan Vargas (@RyanVargas_23) October 31, 2022
One Response
It’s so sad