The introduction of the NextGen car has helped draw many successful drivers to the NASCAR Cup Series ever since its debut. Some of these drivers include Kimi Raikkonen, Shane van Gisbergen, Jenson Button, Jordan Taylor, Brodie Kostecki, Mike Rockenfeller, and more.
Most of the drivers on this list have competed on road courses and it is unlikely to slow down anytime soon. In fact, there is a former NASCAR driver that is interested in returning to the scene and this one would be popular among several current full-time Cup Series competitors.
Former NASCAR driver [autotag]Max Papis[/autotag] sent out a message on social media following the Cup Series race at the Indianapolis Road Course which stated he is looking to join a team for a road course event next year. Papis is currently 53 years old and hasn’t competed in NASCAR since the 2013 season. He did attempt a NASCAR Xfinity Series race in 2021 but did not make the field.
Tired of watching other competing @NASCAR Road Course …plan in motion to be part of it in 2024 ….. looking for a Team owner to join the plan
— Max Papis (@maxpapis) August 14, 2023
Papis has helped out several current NASCAR drivers, such as William Byron, Joey Logano, and Austin Dillon, with their performances on the race track. The son-in-law of racing legend Emerson Fittipaldi has been a great helping hand to them over the years and his impact is well documented.
Now, Papis is looking to make his return to NASCAR for at least one road course event in 2024.