In one of the most surprising announcements of the 2025 NASCAR season, 23XI Racing revealed Riley Herbst as their new driver. The former Stewart-Haas Racing Xfinity Series driver will drive the No. 35 Toyota Camry, a number loaded with symbolism for the team co-owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan and NASCAR star Denny Hamlin.
The meaning of number 35
With Jordan’s iconic numbers 23 and 45 already defining the team, Steve Lauletta, president of 23XI Racing, explained why the No. 35 was chosen for Herbst. Speaking on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Lauletta shared that the origins of this number date back to Jordan’s baseball days.
“The number, No. 35, actually Michael Jordan wore it when he started playing baseball, so he thought it would go with No. 23 and No. 45 which are his other numbers,” Lauletta said.
However, the connection doesn’t end there. The number also pays homage to the team’s current car numbers and a family connection to Hamlin’s past.
“Denny’s dad drove the No. 8, so five and three together make eight,” Lauletta continued. “That takes three from No. 23 and five from No. 45. We found a few reasons why No. 35 was a good fit.”
Why Riley Herbst?
Lauletta stressed that Herbst’s signing has as much to do with his potential as a driver as it does with the sponsorship he brings with him. Herbst’s long-standing partnership with Monster Energy played a critical role in the deal. Monster Energy has been a key sponsor for 23XI Racing, supporting drivers like Kurt Busch and Tyler Reddick in the past.
“We’ve had a great relationship with Monster Energy for many years, going back to Kurt (Busch) and with Tyler,” Lauletta said. “To expand our relationship with them and give Riley a chance, there were just a ton of reasons why it made sense for us.”
Strategic Investment Amidst Challenges
Monster Energy’s sponsorship is particularly valuable as 23XI Racing navigates a legal battle with NASCAR over charter agreements. The financial support Herbst provides should strengthen the team’s operations during a crucial period.
“Monster Energy’s involvement played a significant role in closing Herbst’s deal with 23XI,” Lauletta noted. “The sponsorship money coming in is really going to help the team.”
A Future Full of Promise
Herbst now has the opportunity to elevate his career with a team known for its innovative approach and competitive edge. The No. 35 car not only connects to Jordan and Hamlin’s personal stories, but also represents a chance for Herbst to make his mark at the highest level of NASCAR.
For 23XI Racing, this move is a calculated step to expand its footprint in the sport while deepening its partnerships. With Herbst behind the wheel and Monster Energy on board, the No. 35 car carries both historic weight and renewed potential for the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season.
