Jack Perkins Set for NASCAR Debut at Portland
Australian racing talent Jack Perkins will make his NASCAR debut in the Xfinity Series, driving the No. 19 Shaw and Partners Financial Services Toyota Supra for Joe Gibbs Racing on August 30 at Portland International Raceway. This marks a significant milestone in Perkins’ career as he transitions from the Supercars series to the competitive landscape of NASCAR.
Perkins expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating, “This is a long-held dream come true for me… It’s been a long journey to get here.” His interest in NASCAR was sparked during a visit to Sonoma in 2008, where he observed Marcos Ambrose and served as a spotter for fellow Australian driver Paul Morris.
With a strong pedigree, Perkins is the son of six-time Bathurst 1000 winner Larry Perkins. He boasts three podium finishes, nine victories, and 35 podiums in the Dunlop Super2 Series, showcasing his racing credentials.
Steve DeSouza, Executive Vice President of Xfinity Series and Development, highlighted the decision to bring Perkins on board: “Jack has a distinguished career in the Australian Supercars series and came highly recommended by James Small, our crew chief on the No. 19 team in the Cup Series.”
In preparation for his debut, Perkins has already participated in a seat fitting and simulator sessions at the Joe Gibbs Racing shop. He is scheduled to attend this weekend’s events at Charlotte Motor Speedway as JGR’s guest.
Perkins joins a growing list of Australian drivers making the leap to NASCAR, following in the footsteps of Ambrose, who competed full-time in both the Xfinity Series and Cup Series, as well as Shane van Gisbergen, Cam Brown, Will Brown, and Brodie Kostecki, who have also made recent starts.
Reflecting on his friendship with James Small, Perkins remarked, “James and I grew up together… and we’ve remained close mates. Without James, the whole deal just wouldn’t be happening.” As Perkins gears up for this significant step in his career, anticipation builds for his performance at Portland.
