Timothy Peters to Make Cup Debut at Talladega

By Seth Eggert, Staff Writer

Another driver will join the ranks of Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series drivers as Timothy Peters will attempt his debut at Talladega Superspeedway. Peters will drive the No. 92 Advance Auto Parts Ford Fusion for Ricky Benton Racing in the GEICO 500 at the 2.66-mile Tri-Oval.

Peters is no stranger to restrictor plate racing. The Danville, VA native has back-to-back NASCAR Camping World Truck Series wins at Talladega in 2014 and 2015. He also won the Truck Series season-opener at Daytona International Speedway in 2010. The restrictor plate wins account for three of Peters’ 10 career NCWTS victories.

“This is just a dream come true for me,” said Peters. “I am humbled and so appreciative for the opportunity that Ricky (Benton), Advance Auto Parts, the entire Black’s Tire family, BB&T and Highland Construction have given me to make my first Cup start.”

Peters most recently competed for Ricky Benton Racing in the Truck race at Martinsville Speedway. At his home track, he started 16^thand finished seventh. It was Peters’ first Truck race since the 2017 season finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway.

“Timothy is an incredibly talented driver and proved to be a great fit with our guys at Martinsville,” said team owner Ricky Benton. “He and (crew chief) Mike (Hester) worked great together, communicated well and made some great adjustments as that race progressed. I have no doubt that it will carry over to Talladega in the Cup car.”

Ricky Benton Racing made their Premier Series debut earlier this season in the Daytona 500 with David Gilliland. The team finished 14th, one lap behind the leaders in the wreck-filled 60^thrunning of “The Great American Race.” Gilliland is not going to be behind the wheel due to prior commitments with the race team he co-owns in the ARCA Racing Series, NASCAR K&N Pro Series, and Truck Series.

Exciting day today! Been @RickyBentonRcng with @MHester92 and guys fitting my seat! @AdvanceAuto @BlacksTire @Carquest #teamhighland Ford Fusion for @TalladegaSuperS!! Thanks Ricky & Mike and everyone there for this opportunity! Great bunch to work with! pic.twitter.com/fkMHmJ8Fsw

— Timothy Peters (@TimothyPeters_) April 18, 2018