Riley Herbst Reflects on Early Challenges in First Full Cup Season with 23XI Racing
Kansas City, KS – As the NASCAR Cup Series heads to Kansas Speedway for the AdventHealth 400, rookie driver Riley Herbst is navigating the steep learning curve of his inaugural full-time season with 23XI Racing. After the first 10 races, Herbst currently sits 33rd in the standings, but remains optimistic about his development.
In a recent interview, Herbst expressed enthusiasm about joining 23XI Racing, noting, "It beats what everybody says. You couldn’t ask for a better place and better people." His positive experience is further enhanced by the support of teammates Bubba Wallace and Tyler Reddick, who he describes as invaluable mentors: “It’s our mantra to move forward together… they’ve been really great to me.”
Competitive Landscape
The rookie admits that the competition in the Cup Series is fierce. "It’s been good but very difficult. The intensity is eye-opening," he said, emphasizing the challenges of vying for positions in a tightly contested field, noting every point matters in a championship race. Herbst’s best result thus far came with a 14th place finish at Texas, which marks a significant milestone in his efforts to familiarize himself with the series.
Constant Improvement and Learning
Herbst highlights the relentless pursuit of competitive edges within the team: “Everybody at the shop works tirelessly just to find a tenth of a second… it’s hard to get that little bit of a higher speed.” This culture of excellence pushes him to adapt quickly, contrasting it with his experiences in other racing series where the pace is less frantic.
He draws on the wisdom of veteran racers, including Kevin Harvick, who advised him that “you can’t learn if you’re wrecking." Thus, his primary goal this season centers on completing races to build experience and improve performance week-by-week.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on his aspirations for the season, Herbst stated, "We want to win Rookie of the Year… and see progression." His commitment to learning and growth underscores his journey in the sport. With access to insights from team owner Denny Hamlin and experienced teammates, he is focused on maximizing every opportunity: “I love it in the Cup car. It’s the best of the best.”
As the 2025 season progresses, Herbst aims for notable improvements, believing that visible progress will validate the hard work put in by the team. "This is definitely a process… but it’s fun. That’s the journey we are enjoying," he concluded.
