HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. – Joe Gibbs Racing announced Thursday that Daniel Hemric will drive the team’s No. 18 Toyota Supra full-time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series next year.

The Kannapolis, N.C., native has become a mainstay in NASCAR in recent years with 175 career starts across the three national series. Hemric’s Xfinity Series resume includes e 30 top-five finishes and 51 top-10s in 87 starts and a pair of Championship 4 appearances in 2017 and 2018.

Hemric spent the 2019 season racing part-time for JR Motorsports in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.

“It’s been quite a roller coaster ride for me over the last few years, but I can’t say how thankful I am for the opportunity to drive for Joe Gibbs Racing,” said Hemric. “Their reputation speaks for itself. I know they have high expectations for me, as I do as well, and I could not be more excited to chase the Xfinity Series championship with them next season.”

Most recently, Hemric competed in the Xfinity Series on a part-time basis in 2020. In 21 starts this year, he earned seven top-five finishes and 12 top-10s and ended the season strong with four top-five finishes in his last five starts – all coming during the Xfinity Series Playoffs.

The 2019 NASCAR Cup Series Rookie of the Year joins Harrison Burton and Brandon Jones in the team’s three full-time entries competing for the Xfinity Series championship next season. In 2020, Burton and Jones combined to claim seven of the team’s eight victories.

“We’re excited to have Daniel join our Xfinity Series team,” said Steve de Souza, Executive Vice President of Xfinity Series and Development for Joe Gibbs Racing. “He has proven the ability to run up front and we believe his experience and consistency will be a benefit to our overall program. We look forward to him competing with Brandon (Jones) and Harrison (Burton) for wins and contending for a championship.”

Sponsorship and team personnel details will be announced at a later date.

Riley Herbst, who drove the No. 18 for Joe Gibbs Racing this year, is leaving the team to pursue other opportunities.