This year, Corey Heim has showcased exceptional performance in the NASCAR Truck Series while making select appearances for 23XI Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series. With another Cup race approaching at Richmond, Heim is drawing notable praise from crew chief Bootie Barker, who believes Heim is fully prepared for a full-time Cup ride and capable of winning.
Bootie Barker, known for his recent work with Bubba Wallace at 23XI Racing, transitioned to a new role within the organization after last season but remains Heim’s crew chief when he drives the No. 67 car. Barker has witnessed firsthand Heim’s skill and competitiveness at the Cup level.
Heim’s Talent Sparks Crew Chief’s Confidence in Victory Prospects
Corey Heim’s remarkable talent has raised questions about his readiness not just to compete but to win in the NASCAR Cup Series. Bootie Barker indicated strong confidence in Heim’s abilities, suggesting that if Heim had raced full-time in the Cup Series this year, a victory would likely have already come his way.
“Truck star Corey Heim announced he’ll be back in 23XI Cup car 2 weeks at Richmond,”
reported Danielle Trotta of SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.
“Bootie Barker told me & [Larry McReynolds] Heim is Cup ready right now & said if Heim were full-time Cup racing this year he’d have already won a race. Whoa. Question is when will Toyota put Heim in a Cup car and where???”
—Danielle Trotta, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio
Winning as a rookie in the Cup Series remains a rare feat. Past drivers like Carson Hocevar have struggled to find victory even in their second years, and Ty Gibbs, after over 100 Cup races, is still seeking his first checkered flag. Despite this, Barker’s faith in Heim highlights the driver’s significant promise and potential.
Uncertainty Surrounds Heim’s Full-Time Cup Future Amid Team and Charter Changes
Despite Heim’s clear talent, 23XI Racing does not currently have a confirmed full-time Cup ride available for him in 2026. This uncertainty is compounded by ongoing legal battles involving 23XI Racing, Front Row Motorsports, Legacy Motor Club, and Rick Ware Racing over NASCAR charters, which could alter driver lineups across teams in the coming years.
Both 23XI and Front Row Motorsports aim to retain their current charters, but for the 2025 season, they remain without official charter status. Additionally, 23XI has a multi-year commitment with driver Riley Herbst, which complicates Heim’s chances to secure a full-time seat within the organization.
Potential Destinations: Will Heim Stay With Toyota or Seek Other Opportunities?
Toyota has invested in developing Heim’s career and values his connection with the manufacturer. However, other team owners have noticed his rising stock. Brad Keselowski, for example, has expressed admiration for Heim’s talent and might consider making his No. 6 ride available should he choose to step aside, potentially offering Heim an alternative Cup opportunity.
Corey Heim faces a crucial decision to secure a competitive ride next season. Given Bootie Barker’s strong belief in Heim’s ability to win early in his Cup career, it seems likely that teams will be interested in taking a chance on him as a driver for 2025.
Looking Ahead: The Next Phase for a Rising NASCAR Talent
Corey Heim’s ongoing performances in the NASCAR Truck Series and his growing presence in the Cup Series signal a driver ready to advance to NASCAR’s highest level. The coming months will be pivotal as contracts are finalized and teams determine the driver lineup for 2025 and beyond. Heim’s skills, combined with support from influential crew chiefs and recognition from established team owners, suggest he could make significant waves in the Cup Series soon.
With NASCAR’s charter situation in flux and respected figures within the sport acknowledging Heim’s potential, the 2025 season could mark the beginning of an impactful Cup career for the young driver. Fans and insiders alike will be watching closely to see where Corey Heim’s NASCAR Cup ride ultimately takes him.