Derek Kraus to Make NASCAR Cup Series Debut at Coca-Cola 600
Derek Kraus, 23, is set to make his inaugural start in the NASCAR Cup Series at the Coca-Cola 600 this weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway. He will drive the No. 44 Chevrolet for NY Racing Team, backed by Western States Flooring. This race marks a significant return to a full field of 40 cars, showcasing four open entries for the first time this season.
Kraus’ previous experience includes six Cup Series starts last year with Kaulig Racing, where he achieved a best finish of 28th at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. His last Cup appearance was in the 2024 season finale at Phoenix Raceway. This weekend’s race will be his debut in the prestigious Coke 600, a key event in the NASCAR calendar.
As a former ARCA West Series champion in 2019, Kraus has accumulated extensive experience across various series, including 76 starts in the Truck Series and eight in the Xfinity Series. Notable achievements include a second-place finish at Darlington in the Truck Series during his full-time stint from 2020 to 2022.
NY Racing Team, which has made four Cup starts this year with veteran driver J.J. Yeley, aims to improve upon their best finish of 32nd achieved at Talladega. The team previously attempted to qualify for the Daytona 500 but did not succeed.
Kraus expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating, “I’m excited to be making my first start in the #Coke600 this weekend with @NYRacingTeam! Thank you to Western States Flooring for their support to make this happen!”
As the countdown to the Coca-Cola 600 begins, Kraus and the NY Racing Team look to capitalize on this chance to showcase their potential on one of NASCAR’s biggest stages.
