Corey Lajoie Apologizes for ‘12 Fans’ NASCAR Comment on Lower Divisions

Corey LaJoie has addressed a controversial comment he made about NASCAR’s lower divisions earlier in the year.

In January 2025, LaJoie, then without a full-time Cup Series ride, was asked by FOX Sports’ Bob Pockrass about choosing a part-time schedule in the Cup Series instead of full-time opportunities in the Xfinity or Truck Series.

LaJoie remarked that he did not want to race in those series and questioned the excitement of “holding a trophy on a Friday when there’s 12 people in the grandstands.” His words drew negative responses from teams and fans in the lower divisions, many of whom felt slighted by the implication that their efforts were less meaningful or visible.

Facing the media ahead of the Truck Series event at Michigan, LaJoie explained the circumstances around his comment. He revealed that he made the statement on the morning of a five-day fast and described himself as both “pissed off and hungry.”

He admitted he regretted including the “12 fans” phrase, recognizing that it caused offense within the Truck garage. LaJoie clarified that the comment was not meant to minimize the dedication present in NASCAR’s developmental ranks but was a reflection of a difficult period in his own career where he was frustrated to be out of a Cup seat.

LaJoie recently accepted a deal with Spire Motorsports to participate in nine of the final 13 Truck Series races of the season. Despite his earlier hesitation to return to the lower divisions, he embraced the new opportunity and stated there was “no hesitation” in taking the Truck Series deal.

LaJoie expressed his commitment to putting full effort into the races, noting that opportunities like this are highly sought after, with “hundreds, if not thousands of kids/drivers” eager for a chance. He emphasized the responsibility to perform well and not simply make up the numbers.

His main goal remains returning to the Cup Series as a full-time driver, a dream he has held since he was 12 years old. LaJoie described the Cup level as a grind, especially when results do not meet expectations, acknowledging that years of tough runs can make the sport less enjoyable.

However, he finds his recent experiences in Truck and Modified races rewarding and fun. Driving other people’s equipment, being trusted by teams like Spire, and getting paid to race brings back the love for the sport that first set him on his career path.

Looking ahead, LaJoie is motivated to make the most of his nine-race opportunity with Spire Motorsports. He stated this is the best job he could hope for at this time, and he intends to race hard, show his skills, and enjoy the ride.

LaJoie also works as an analyst for Prime Video, contributing to post-race coverage during their Cup Series broadcasts, further cementing his active role in NASCAR during this transitional year. With his perspective changed by both time and circumstance, LaJoie now looks to demonstrate respect for all levels of NASCAR.

He remains focused on strong Truck Series performances as well as future Cup ambitions, hoping his actions on track can speak as loudly as his earlier words.