Rackley W.A.R. is set to relocate its base from Tennessee to the heart of NASCAR operations—North Carolina—during the 2024 off-season. This move marks a new chapter for the team as it settles into a bigger facility in Statesville, promising improvements in operational efficiency.
Founded as Willie Allen Racing in 2008, Rackley W.A.R. broke into the NASCAR Truck Series in 2020 through a transformative partnership with Curtis Sutton of Rackley Roofing. This collaboration has pushed the team into a more competitive sphere within the world of NASCAR.
North Carolina, particularly Statesville, is not an arbitrary choice for relocation. The area serves as a central hub for NASCAR teams, bringing Rackley W.A.R. into close proximity with crucial resources and partners. The enhanced accessibility to chassis builders and parts suppliers will undoubtedly bolster their NASCAR Truck Series and Late Model programs.
The move is also sure to strengthen Rackley W.A.R.'s affiliation with the General Motors Technical Center in Charlotte, deepening the ties with Chevrolet—their primary manufacturer partner.
Rackley W.A.R. is also moving into the GMS Fabrication Building, consolidating its partnership with GMS Racing, which initially facilitated its entry into the Truck Series. Under the leadership of President Mike Bean, GMS Racing has consistently provided invaluable engineering and fabrication insights, and the relocation to North Carolina is a tangible extension of this ongoing collaboration.
Despite the physical move, some facets of Rackley W.A.R.'s operations will remain rooted in tradition. The W.A.R. Shocks division will continue its work in Centerville, Tennessee.
Co-owners Willie Allen and Curtis Sutton commented on the relocation, revealing the strategic benefits and growth opportunities it offers. They explained in a press release from the team:
"Our move to Statesville is an exciting step in Rackley W.A.R.'s journey.
"This new location will enhance our capabilities and resources as we continue building a competitive edge in NASCAR as well as our Pro and Super Late Model driver development program. Additionally, this transition allows us to grow a stronger team culture and attract top-tier talent, further solidifying our commitment to performance in every aspect of our racing program.
"We're committed to delivering our best, and this move positions us perfectly to achieve that vision together."
This comes after the news that Curtis Sutton's son, Dawson, will be driving for the team full-time in 2025. Allen commented at the time of the announcement:
"I really don't think there's anything he can't do.
"He has a great work ethic; he doesn't take any of this for granted. He works hard to be the best he can be no matter what the situation. He's had a short learning curve in everything he's attempted, and I don't see any reason that wouldn't continue in the [NASCAR CRAFTSMAN] Truck Series.
"We place a lot of confidence in him to represent this team and any of our partners very well going forward."