Joe Gibbs Racing driver John Hunter Nemechek – a second-generation NASCAR driver – is currently leading the NASCAR Xfinity Series championship by 33-points over Austin Hill and is two solid races away from claiming the regular season title.
He concedes, much of his talent, drive and opportunity is a legacy from both his father, former NASCAR Cup Series standout and 1992 Xfinity Series champion Joe Nemechek and his late uncle – and namesake – John Nemechek, who competed in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series.
Of that legacy, Nemechek says he is, of course, inspired but hoping to raise the family bar even more.
“I wouldn’t say it’s extra pressure,’’ said Nemechek, a four-race Xfinity Series winner in 2023. “I’ve always had the goal of being better than my dad, that’s for sure. I think last week I tied him in total NASCAR wins which is really cool. I think we are both at 20 now. That’s a really neat stat.
“I think that there is no real added pressure there, just because of my name. I think for me it’s trying to make a name for myself. Yes, being able to grow underneath him and then being able to carry on my uncle’s name is really, really neat and it is kind of a family legacy that I get to continue to carry on, but at the same time make a name for myself.
“I want everyone to say ‘that’s John Hunter’s dad,’ rather than, ‘that’s Joe Nemechek’s son.’ “
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