NASCAR Rumors: Corey Heim emerges as frontrunner for 23XI Racing's No. 35 Toyota seat
Speculations have been circulating regarding who will take on a permanent role behind the wheel of the No. 35 Toyota, especially since 23XI Racing announced its expansion to a three-car Cup Series operation.
Now that Riley Herbst is officially in the seat, the crystal ball points towards rising NASCAR star Corey Heim as the one to take over this seat in the not-too-distant future, and the vibes around that rumor continue to gain momentum.
Corey Heim's strong credentials and upward trajectory
At just 22 years of age, Corey Heim is already proving to be one of the brightest talents inside of NASCAR's developmental ladder. Heim has won more than a dozen Truck Series races, including a title for winning the 2023 regular season, and finished second in the overall standings, all of which demonstrate his prowess on racing's biggest stages.
His case for a promotion to the Cup Series has only gained more momentum this season in the Truck Series, where he leads in both wins and points.
Heim had entered into a developmental deal with 23XI Racing earlier this season, which was to include a part-time Cup Series schedule in the No. 67 car. As one of the part-time Cup drivers this season, he made the most of his minimal starts, highlighted by a 13th place at Kansas, which remains one of the top points earned by a part-time Cup driver this year.
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Industry veterans, fans, and insiders alike have been impressed with his performance in the Truck Series and Cup Series.
Sponsorship pressures versus performance potential
Riley Herbst, with his Monster Energy sponsorship backing, originally put in the No. 35 ride at the time of the announcement, despite Heim's pedigree. It was largely seen as a financial decision, not a football decision. Herbst attracted guaranteed funding; Heim has so far powered her rise with little more than raw talent, not big-brand endorsements.
But Herbst, meanwhile, has had a pretty lacklustre maiden Cup season. A few top-20 runs at best, but no impressive outings during the first half of the season, and his seat has come under fire more than once. In the meantime, Heim's success in multiple series and solid early Cup, even with less equipment, has put him firmly on the radar as a legitimate option.
What's next for the No. 35 Toyota?
23XI Racing, however, will still keep an eye on it throughout the 2025 season.
Herbst, whose deal extends the length of the season, has at least until then to show he belongs. However, if results remain flat, it will surely prioritize on-track performance over any assurances that come with a title sponsorship.
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However, with team owners Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan both dedicated to competing at the highest level, the No. 35's value could change much sooner than that, too. At some point, Corey Heim's winning pedigree and upward momentum are going to force his hand; seemingly, that point isn't far off.
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