Kyle Benjamin Joins JGR for Two Xfinity Races

By Seth Eggert, Staff Writer 

Joe Gibbs Racing is beginning to complete their Xfinity Series drivers’ lineup as they add Kyle Benjamin to the fold. Benjamin will drive the JGR No. 18 Toyota Camry at Atlanta Motor Speedway on February 24, and Iowa Speedway on July 28. At Atlanta, he will carry the PEAK Antifreeze & Coolant sponsorship.

Benjamin competed in five races last year for JGR. He qualified an impressive second in his debut at Richmond Raceway. Benjamin went on to score two pole positions at Pocono Raceway and Kentucky Speedway. In five races, the Easley, SC native had an average starting position of 1.6.

In the second Iowa race of 2017, Benjamin had a tense battle with teammate Ryan Preece. Benjamin ultimately finished second while Preece scored his first career victory.

“I can’t wait to get back behind the wheel of the No. 18 Toyota Camry for Joe Gibbs Racing,” stated Benjamin. “I am confident that we can build on the speed from last year and compete for wins at both Atlanta and Iowa. I’m thankful that PEAK Antifreeze & Coolant gave me the opportunity to race in Atlanta, and I look forward to representing such a great product on track.”

Benjamin also has 23 starts in the ARCA Racing Series. There, the 20-year-old driver has three victories, nine top-fives, 17 top-10s, and two pole positions.

Benjamin also has a runner-up finish in the 2016 NASCAR K&N Pro Series East Championship Standings. In 32 starts in that series, he accumulated five victories, 14 top-fives, 19 top-10s, and six pole positions.

Sponsorship for the US Cellular 250 at Iowa will be announced at a later date.

Now Benjamin and his No. 18 JGR team will prepare for the Rinnai 250 at Atlanta on Saturday, February 24.