William Sawalich immerses in full-time NASCAR training

William Sawalich is emerging as a significant talent in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. At just 18 years old, he proudly represents Joe Gibbs Racing in the No. 18 Toyota.

Hailing from Minnesota, a state not traditionally known for producing race car drivers, Sawalich is on a mission to become the first driver from his home state to triumph in a NASCAR national touring race. His journey began at Elko Speedway, the only paved oval track in Minnesota, where he fell in love with racing and was inspired by his idol, Chase Elliott.

His racing career took off after his parents bought him a quarter midget. This initial spark led him into Legends cars, where he honed his skills.

In 2021, Sawalich made a pivotal move to North Carolina to compete in late models. During this time, he joined Dennis Setzer’s Setzer Racing and Development program, which played a crucial part in shaping his early development as a driver.

The foundation laid here has shown its worth as Sawalich has risen through the ranks quickly. His experience in late model racing was key to his later success.

Brandon Setzer, the crew chief at Setzer Racing and Development, commented on Sawalich’s impressive speed and willingness to learn from his very first experience behind the wheel of a race car. His hard work paid off when he excelled in the ARCA Menards Series, boasting a remarkable win percentage of nearly 43%.

He achieved consecutive championships in the ARCA East series for 2023 and 2024. At 16, Sawalich made his debut in the Craftsman Truck Series, finishing an impressive top-10 in his inaugural race at Martinsville Speedway.

This early achievement reinforced his belief in the value of gaining varied experience in different race cars, which has been instrumental to his rapid development. Yet, his entry into the NASCAR Xfinity Series after turning 18 was not without its challenges.

Although he raced briefly in the Xfinity Series, he made headlines by winning the pole position at Phoenix Raceway, which secured him a full-time role at JGR for the 2025 season.

So far in the 2025 season, Sawalich has faced a mixed bag of results in 12 starts, achieving two top-10 finishes and placing 25th in the regular-season standings.

Despite the ups and downs, his team, led by veteran crew chief Jeff Meendering, has encountered difficulties with several races resulting in finishes outside the top 20.

Nevertheless, Steve deSouza, the executive vice president for the Xfinity Series at JGR, has expressed confidence in Sawalich’s potential. He highlighted Sawalich’s strong work ethic and maturity, traits that bode well for his future in the sport.

As he navigates his rookie season, Sawalich continues to focus on accumulating valuable points while making appearances in select ARCA and Craftsman Truck Series events for additional experience.

He remains committed to achieving his first victory in the series and establishing a name for himself as a serious contender in NASCAR.

With his rapid rise and determination, many are keen to watch how William Sawalich’s career unfolds in the coming years. His journey is just beginning, and the excitement around his potential is palpable.