Josh Berry Gets Candid on Former Boss Dale Jr.’s Hand Behind His NASCAR Career With Heartfelt Message

Josh Berry’s Journey to Victory: How Dale Earnhardt Jr. Helped Shape His NASCAR Career

Josh Berry’s first NASCAR Cup Series win at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on March 16, 2025, marked a pivotal moment in his career, one that was years in the making. Berry’s path to success began unexpectedly, with a message to Dale Earnhardt Jr. in 2008 that would change his life forever.

The Early Days

Berry, then a bank teller, was racing Legends cars at Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway. He reached out to Dale Earnhardt Jr., sending him in-car footage from his races. Earnhardt Jr. was impressed, recognizing Berry’s potential. This encounter led to Berry joining JR Motorsports (JRM) in 2010 to compete in Late Models.

Under JRM, Berry flourished, winning over 75 races and securing the 2020 NASCAR Advance Auto Parts Weekly Series Division 1 title. His success in Late Models eventually led to opportunities in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, where he won multiple races and solidified his reputation as a rising star.

The Cup Series Debut

Berry’s introduction to the NASCAR Cup Series came when he filled in for Chase Elliott at Hendrick Motorsports in 2023 after Elliott suffered an injury. He then made his full-time Cup Series debut with Stewart-Haas Racing in 2024. Despite facing challenges, including the team’s financial struggles, Berry persevered.

The Breakthrough with Wood Brothers Racing

In 2025, Berry joined Wood Brothers Racing, driving the iconic No. 21 Ford. His first win with the team came at Las Vegas, where he outdueled Daniel Suarez to take the checkered flag. This victory marked Wood Brothers Racing’s 101st win and Berry’s first in the Cup Series.

A Lifetime Friendship with Dale Earnhardt Jr.

Berry credits much of his success to Dale Earnhardt Jr., who not only gave him a chance but also became a close friend. After his win, Berry FaceTimed Earnhardt Jr. in Victory Lane, a moment that highlighted their enduring bond. Earnhardt Jr. has consistently supported Berry, believing in his potential as a consistent winner.

Future Prospects

Berry’s win has sparked speculation about his future, including the possibility of returning to JR Motorsports if they expand into the Cup Series. While this remains speculative, Berry’s current focus is on building momentum with Wood Brothers Racing. His performance has already shown significant improvement, taking a team that previously struggled to now being a playoff contender.