Randy LaJoie, a former NASCAR driver and father of Corey LaJoie, recently expressed surprise at being named one of NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers of all time. Despite a controversial incident in 2010 involving a substance-abuse violation, Randy’s inclusion on the prestigious list highlighted his enduring impact on the sport.
In June 2010, Randy LaJoie faced suspension from NASCAR’s substance-abuse policy after he was caught smoking marijuana with fans near the Coca-Cola 600 event. This led to additional consequences, including a suspension from his role as a racing analyst for ESPN. The test came as he had signed on as a spotter for Joe Gibbs Racing’s Nationwide Series team, now called the Xfinity Series.
Reflecting on the honor two years ago during an interview with Rick Benjamin on RaceLine, Randy LaJoie shared his feelings:
“I really thought I pissed them off a few times. I was quite surprised… and very honored.” —Randy LaJoie
Randy also spoke about his Hall of Fame nomination for the Class of 2026, indicating how unexpected the recognition was:
“It’s no small task. You don’t go into it when you’re 18 because I had to wait until I’m 18 to start. I never thought I was going to be in the Hall of Fame.” —Randy LaJoie
“Growing up, you see the guys… I’m going to the racetrack. I see the black jackets and the Hall of Fame guys. I was like, ‘That guy’s an old racer. That guy’s an older racer. That guy’s an old racer.’ Now I got one of those jackets, and I’m one of those old racers.” —Randy LaJoie
Alongside 14 other nominees, including former NASCAR Cup Series champion Kurt Busch, Randy LaJoie’s induction reflects his success, particularly in the Xfinity Series where he earned two championships in 1996 and 1997 and claimed 15 wins over his career.
Corey LaJoie’s Broadened Outlook from TV Broadcasting Experience
Following in his father’s footsteps, Corey LaJoie expanded his connection to NASCAR by stepping behind the microphone as a television analyst. His experience as a broadcaster for Prime Video during the 2024 season significantly altered his approach to racing, shifting his mindset from intense pressure to greater enjoyment of the sport.
Speaking to Speedsport, Corey revealed how viewing the sport through a TV lens helped ease his racing anxieties:
“Before this opportunity to see the race from a TV perspective, I would feel like if I wasn’t running well, then I was letting a lot of people down. I think that I cared too much, and I would hold the outcome too tightly, as opposed to just enjoying it when I was doing it.” —Corey LaJoie
His stint as a broadcaster covered five races, from the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway to The Great American Getaway 400 at Pocono Raceway. During this time, LaJoie contributed to the pre- and post-race studio shows alongside Carl Edwards and Danielle Trotta, adding a fresh perspective as a current driver.
Balancing Broadcasting and a Transitioning Racing Career
While broadcasting opened new horizons for Corey LaJoie, he continues to compete part-time in the NASCAR Cup Series. The 2024 season marks his final year running a full schedule, having switched from Spire Motorsports to Rick Ware Racing during the season.
Currently, LaJoie races limited events behind the wheel of the #01 Ford for Rick Ware Racing. His dual role as both driver and analyst offers him unique insights into the sport’s dynamics and the mental demands involved.
Implications of LaJoie’s Shifted NASCAR Perspective
Corey LaJoie’s changed mindset, influenced by broadcasting experience, highlights how diversifying roles within the sport can benefit drivers’ mental well-being and performance outlook. His story illustrates that stepping back and viewing racing from a different angle can reduce pressure and rekindle passion.
As the 2024 season progresses, LaJoie’s involvement in media and racing could set a precedent for other drivers seeking to balance competition with broader engagement in the sport. His father‘s Hall of Fame nomination alongside his own evolving career narrative underscores their family’s lasting influence in NASCAR’s landscape.