Lupton Returns to JGL Racing for 21 Races

By Seth Eggert, Staff Writer

NASCAR Xfinity Series driver Dylan Lupton is inching closer to a full-time deal with JGL Racing. As part of the team’s “Young Guns” program, Lupton will drive a minimum of 21 races in the No. 28 Ford Mustang. Lupton joins Kaz Grala as the team transitions for Toyota Racing to Ford Performance.

Last year Lupton made 14 starts for JGL Racing with a best finish of 12^th at Richmond Raceway. In total, he had four top-20 finishes in JGL’s Toyota Camrys. Lupton has a total of 24 starts in the Xfinity Series since the 2015 season. His best career finish, ninth, came at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course in 2015.

“I’m very excited to return to JGL Racing in 2018,” stated Lupton. “We continued to improve throughout the 2017 season and I was able to gain valuable experience that will help tremendously in the new season. With the switch to Ford over the off-season and our new alliance with Roush Fenway Racing, I am confident that we will be competitive right out of the gate. I would like to thank James Whitener and the whole JGL Racing organization for this opportunity.”

In 244 total starts, JGL Racing has five top-five finishes and 11 top-10s. The teams’ best finish of third came when Dakoda Armstrong drove the No. 28 WinField United Toyota Camry at Daytona International Speedway. Jeb Burton and J.J. Yeley account for three of team’s top fives.

“I am extremely happy we were able to put something together and have Dylan back with us for the 2018 season,” said James Whitener, owner of JGL Racing. “Dylan gained valuable experience in the 2017 season and went to many tracks for the first time, which will all help him in 2018. Also, Dylan became a great fit with our team and really became a part of our family. We look forward to his continued growth and think he has some exciting times ahead of him in the No. 28 Ford.”

JGL Racing previously announced that Shane Wilson would join the team as the crew chief of Grala’s No. 24 Ford Mustang, and compete for Sunoco Rookie of the Year honors. Sponsor and crew chief announcements for Lupton are expected in the near future.

In the meantime, Lupton, Whitener, and the entire JGL Racing team will prepare for the PowerShares QQQ 300 at Daytona on February 17.