Helio Castroneves Reveals Previous NASCAR Debut Challenges - 'Roger Penske Never Allowed Me'

4 hours ago 3

Helio Castroneves has opened up on his NASCAR Cup debut at the 2025 Daytona 500, when he will drive for Trackhouse Racing under the Project 91 banner, revealing previous roadblocks he faced when trying to enter the sport.

The Brazilian driver had previously revealed an interest in exploring racing opportunities outside the IndyCar series but was often met with resistance from the team owner Roger Penske.

On his prior attempts to enter NASCAR, Castroneves explained:

"It's something that I was thinking about. I always wanted to do it. When I used to race with Penske, I asked about it, but Roger [Penske] never allowed me to.

"But now, finally! You gotta keep pushing. You gotta keep believing one day, that dream will come true, and here we go."

Castroneves is set to join the Daytona 500 with Trackhouse Racing, an outfit that has previously welcomed international drivers such as Shane van Gisbergen and Kimi Raikkonen.

The Daytona 500 is known for its fierce on-track battles, and Castroneves acknowledges the challenges ahead, saying:

"It will be a challenge...No question about that. It's a big oval. It's a tough oval. A lot of fearless competitors, but I have a great group behind me."

Despite lacking direct NASCAR experience, Castroneves is supported by an experienced team at the historic team.

Trackhouse Racing's Project 91 was designed to integrate international stars into NASCAR. Castroneves shared his confidence in the team:

"They did this before when people had no experience at all, and they understood. They're guiding me. They are doing everything they can."

Castroneves is coming to NASCAR following participation in the Superstar Racing Experience (SRX) series, which helped catch the attention of key figures who facilitated his move to NASCAR.

Speaking about his upcoming move when it was initially announced, Castoneves explained, as previously reported by Newsweek Sports:

"Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would enter a NASCAR race and certainly not the Daytona 500 with a team like Trackhouse Racing.

"This is an opportunity that nobody in their right mind could ever turn down. I am so thankful to Wendy's for allowing me to wear their uniform and drive their car, (Trackhouse owner) Justin Marks and everyone that made this happen. I wish the race were tomorrow.

"I know how much of a challenge this is going to be, but I also know the type of people and team Trackhouse Racing will bring to the effort.

"I can't wait to get to the Trackhouse race shop in North Carolina to meet everyone and prepare for Daytona. There is so much I must learn and I'm ready to get started."