In an exciting development, Legacy Motor Club declared on Monday that crew chief Ben Beshore will make the transition to the No. 42 Toyota team, maintaining his successful partnership with driver John Hunter Nemechek as they both gear up for the NASCAR Cup Series in 2024.
Beshore played a pivotal role in guiding Nemechek to a stellar seven-win season and securing a spot in the Championship 4 in the Xfinity Series with Joe Gibbs Racing this year. The upcoming season will mark a full-time return to the Cup Series for both, with Nemechek making his comeback for the first time since 2020 and Beshore resuming after a one-year hiatus. Additionally, Legacy M.C.’s switch from Chevrolet during the offseason will align them with the Toyota system.
“The crucial driver-crew chief dynamic is something I am well-versed in, and it's a vital aspect of our performance foundation,” expressed team co-owner Jimmie Johnson in a news release. “We are truly grateful to welcome Ben to the Club. His experience with John Hunter and Toyota will facilitate our transition, and his on-track expertise will contribute significantly. Ben is known for his intense focus and belief in the future potential of an organization undergoing significant changes. He’s an excellent fit.”
Beshore's journey includes roles as a car chief and engineer, initially with RFK Racing and later joining JGR in 2014, before assuming the crew chief position in the 2019 season. The 42-year-old Pennsylvania native stood atop the pit box for eight victories over two seasons – four with Kyle Busch and four more with Harrison Burton.
This experience paved the way for Beshore’s first full-time role as a Cup Series crew chief, partnering with Busch and the No. 18 team from 2021. Together, they achieved three victories before Beshore teamed up with Nemechek this season.
Nemechek's arrival coincides with Legacy Motor Club's second competitive season under its banner. He will be a teammate to Erik Jones, who has been steering the No. 43 ride for the past three seasons.
“The partnership between driver and crew chief requires a type of chemistry that is hard to find,” Nemechek said. “As a driver, if you’re lucky enough to find a crew chief that you mesh with as well as Ben and I do, you do everything possible to stick together. I look forward to building on our competitive partnership and fighting for more wins and championships.”