For NASCAR fans wondering, “Who owns Front Row Motorsports?” the answer lies with a successful entrepreneur with a deep passion for racing: Bob Jenkins.
As one of the most recognized small-budget teams in the NASCAR Cup Series, Front Row Motorsports has carved out a unique place in stock car racing under Jenkins’ leadership.
This guide dives into the ownership of Front Row Motorsports, exploring Jenkins’ background, the team’s history, and its role in NASCAR’s competitive landscape. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the sport, this post provides everything you need to know about Front Row Motorsports’ ownership and its journey in NASCAR.
Who Owns Front Row Motorsports Today?
Front Row Motorsports is owned by Bob Jenkins, a restaurateur and motorsport enthusiast who has been the team’s sole owner since 2005.
Jenkins, known for his business acumen in the hospitality industry, has built Front Row into a competitive NASCAR team despite its modest budget compared to giants like Hendrick Motorsports or Joe Gibbs Racing.
His commitment to the sport was evident in 2024 when the team announced the purchase of a third charter, expanding to three full-time Cup Series teams for the 2025 season. This move underscores Jenkins’ vision to grow Front Row Motorsports into a major player in NASCAR.
Bob Jenkins: The Man Behind Front Row Motorsports
Bob Jenkins is more than just a team owner; he’s a savvy businessman with a lifelong passion for motorsports. At 55, Jenkins is one of the younger majority owners in NASCAR, bringing energy and ambition to the sport.
His business empire includes over 260 franchises of fast-food chains like Taco Bell, Long John Silver’s, and A&W Restaurants, primarily through his involvement with Yum! Brands. This financial success has allowed him to invest significantly in Front Row Motorsports, ensuring its stability and growth.
In a 2018 interview with Sports Business Journal, Jenkins shared his philosophy on NASCAR investment: “As my businesses have grown and the race team has stabilized, I continue to invest more because you want the return to be there.
I try to not rely on swinging for the bleachers all the time and instead just have a gradual goal of getting better each year.” This steady approach has helped Front Row Motorsports achieve notable successes, including the 2021 Daytona 500 victory and the 2022 Craftsman Truck Series championship.
Jenkins’ motorsport journey began as a co-owner of Means-Jenkins Motorsports in 2004, partnering with retired stock car racer Jimmy Means. His transition to full ownership in 2005 marked the beginning of Front Row Motorsports’ rise as a respected underdog in NASCAR.
History of Front Row Motorsports Ownership
Front Row Motorsports traces its roots to 2004 when it operated as Means-Jenkins Motorsports, a part-time team in the NASCAR Cup Series. Bob Jenkins initially joined as a co-owner before acquiring full control in 2005, rebranding the team as Front Row Motorsports.
Since then, the team has grown from a small operation to a competitive outfit, fielding teams in the NASCAR Cup Series, Craftsman Truck Series, and previously the Nationwide Series (now Xfinity Series).
Key milestones in the team’s ownership history include:
- 2005: Jenkins becomes the sole owner, marking the official start of Front Row Motorsports.
- 2016: The team strengthens its technical alliance with Ford Performance, boosting its competitiveness.
- 2018: Front Row acquires assets from BK Racing, enabling the team to field a third car.
- 2024: The team purchases a third charter, expanding to three full-time Cup Series teams for 2025.
This progression reflects Jenkins’ commitment to building a sustainable and competitive team, even with a smaller budget than top-tier organizations.
How Did Bob Jenkins Acquire Front Row Motorsports?
Jenkins’ entry into NASCAR ownership began with his passion for motorsports and his business success in the hospitality industry. In 2004, he partnered with Jimmy Means to form Means-Jenkins Motorsports, a part-time NASCAR team.
Recognizing the potential to create a lasting impact in the sport, Jenkins purchased full ownership in 2005, renaming the team Front Row Motorsports. His acquisition was driven by a desire to compete in NASCAR’s premier series while leveraging his business expertise to manage the team’s finances and operations.
Unlike larger teams backed by corporate giants, Front Row Motorsports operates on a lean budget, making Jenkins’ strategic investments crucial. His purchase of additional charters, including one from Stewart-Haas Racing in 2024 for an estimated $20–25 million, highlights his willingness to take calculated risks to grow the team.
Front Row Motorsports’ Growth and Achievements
Under Bob Jenkins’ ownership, Front Row Motorsports has achieved remarkable success for a small-budget team. The team has competed in over 758 races across NASCAR’s Cup, Truck, and Nationwide Series, amassing 12 wins, 7 pole positions, and one championship in the 2022 Craftsman Truck Series with driver Zane Smith. Notable achievements include:
- 2021 Daytona 500 Victory: Michael McDowell’s win in the prestigious race marked a high point for the team.
- 2022 Truck Series Championship: Zane Smith’s championship solidified Front Row’s presence in the Truck Series.
- 2025 Expansion: The team’s purchase of a third charter allows it to field three Cup Series teams, driven by Todd Gilliland (No. 34), Zane Smith (No. 38), and Noah Gragson (car number TBD).
Front Row’s technical alliance with Ford Performance since 2016 has been instrumental in its growth, providing access to advanced engineering and resources. The team’s ability to compete with larger organizations demonstrates Jenkins’ effective leadership and vision. For more on Front Row’s achievements, visit NASCAR’s official site.
NASCAR Team Ownership: A Broader Perspective
NASCAR team ownership is a complex and costly endeavor, with teams operating under the charter system introduced in 2016.
Charters guarantee starting spots in Cup Series races and a share of NASCAR’s television revenue, which is significant given the $1.1 billion annual media deal that began in 2025. However, owning a team requires substantial investment, with charters valued between $20–40 million in recent years.
Unlike Front Row Motorsports, which operates as a single-owner team under Bob Jenkins, many NASCAR teams are backed by multiple investors or corporate entities. For example:
- Hendrick Motorsports: Owned by Rick Hendrick, it fields four cars and is one of NASCAR’s most successful teams.
- Joe Gibbs Racing: Owned by Joe Gibbs, it also runs a four-car operation with significant sponsorship.
- 23XI Racing: Co-owned by Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin, it represents a newer model of celebrity-backed ownership.
Jenkins’ approach stands out for its focus on gradual improvement and financial prudence, allowing Front Row to compete effectively despite fewer resources. For a deeper look at NASCAR’s team structure, check out Jayski’s NASCAR Silly Season Site.
Recent Developments and Legal Battles
In 2024, Front Row Motorsports, alongside 23XI Racing, made headlines by filing an antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR and its CEO, Jim France. The lawsuit alleges that NASCAR’s charter system and practices, such as exclusivity agreements and control over Next Gen parts, create an unfair monopoly that disadvantages teams.
Both Front Row and 23XI declined to sign the 2025 charter agreement, citing unfair terms, and won a federal court ruling in December 2024 to race as charter teams in 2025 while the legal battle continues.
Bob Jenkins emphasized the need for change in a statement: “I have been part of this racing community for 20 years and couldn’t be more proud of the Front Row Motorsports team and our success.
But the time has come for change. We need a more competitive and fair system.” This legal action reflects Jenkins’ commitment to advocating for a fairer NASCAR ecosystem, which could reshape the sport’s future.
What’s Next for Front Row Motorsports?
Looking ahead to 2025, Front Row Motorsports is poised for growth with its expanded three-car operation in the Cup Series. The team’s driver lineup includes Todd Gilliland, Zane Smith, and Noah Gragson, supported by sponsors like Love’s Travel Stops, Aaron’s, and Grillo’s Pickles. Jenkins’ recent charter purchase and strengthened alliance with Ford Performance signal a bright future.
However, the ongoing lawsuit against NASCAR introduces uncertainty. A successful outcome could lead to reforms in the charter system, benefiting teams like Front Row by increasing revenue shares and reducing costs. Fans can stay updated on Front Row’s progress by following their official social media on X or visiting ESPN’s NASCAR coverage.
Conclusion: Why Front Row Motorsports Matters
Front Row Motorsports, under Bob Jenkins’ ownership, exemplifies the underdog spirit in NASCAR. From its humble beginnings as Means-Jenkins Motorsports to its current status as a three-car Cup Series team, Front Row has defied expectations with wins like the 2021 Daytona 500 and the 2022 Truck Series championship.
Jenkins’ business savvy and passion for racing have made the team a fan favorite, proving that success in NASCAR isn’t just about big budgets.
As Front Row navigates its legal battle with NASCAR and continues to grow, its story resonates with fans who value perseverance and competition. Share this post with fellow NASCAR enthusiasts and follow Front Row Motorsports on X for the latest updates. What’s your take on Front Row’s journey? Let us know in the comments!