RIDGEWAY, VA (October 26,2025) - It wasn’t an easy night at Martinsville Speedway, but Jesse Love and the No. 2 Whelen Engineering Chevrolet team are Phoenix bound. Despite a challenging race filled with adversity, the 20-year-old Richard Childress Racing driver clinched his spot in the NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship 4 and announced that he will return to RCR in 2026, with Whelen Engineering continuing as the team’s anchor sponsor.

Love entered the Martinsville event with a 40-point cushion above the elimination line, knowing the goal was simple — stay clean and advance to Phoenix. After qualifying 21st, the night quickly turned into a grind as Love fought through a pair of pit road penalties that shuffled the team deep in the field.

A late-race caution, however, gave Love the opportunity he needed. Awarded the “Lucky Dog,” he was able to get back on the lead lap and make a late charge to pass several cars, gaining valuable points that ultimately sealed his place in the Championship 4. When the checkered flag waved, Love crossed the line in 23rd — enough to advance by 18 points over Brandon Jones.

“It wasn’t the night we wanted, but we accomplished the goal,” said Love. “This RCR team never gave up, and now we’ve got one more race to go — the biggest one of the year. I’m proud of everyone who’s been a part of this season, and we’re going to Phoenix ready to fight for it.”

Following the race, Love laughed during his post-race interview on The CW Network, joking that Martinsville might not be one of his favorite tracks. “Maybe I just need to try one of those famous Martinsville Hot Dogs,” he said with a grin. “That might be the secret.”

Love, who captured one win, 8 top fives, and 21 top tens during the 2025 season, will now battle three powerhouse JR Motorsports drivers for the NASCAR Xfinity Series Championship — Connor Zilisch, Carson Kvapil, and defending champion Justin Allgaier.

The announcement of Love’s return to RCR and Whelen Engineering for 2026 further strengthens a growing partnership built on performance, professionalism, and shared values. “We’re proud to continue our partnership,” said Peter Tiezzi of Whelen Engineering. “Jesse has done a phenomenal job representing our brand, and we look forward to competing alongside him and RCR for a championship in 2026.”

The Championship 4 will take place at Phoenix Raceway on Saturday, November 1, where the highest-finishing driver among the four finalists will be crowned the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series Champion.

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How the NASCAR Xfinity Series Playoffs Work

The NASCAR Xfinity Series Playoffs begin with 12 drivers. After each three-race round, four drivers are eliminated based on wins and points totals.

The Round of 12 is followed by the Round of 8, and then the Championship 4. The final race at Phoenix Raceway is a winner-take-all format — the highest-finishing driver among the four contenders in that race is crowned the series champion.

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About Jesse Love

At just 20 years old, Jesse Love has quickly emerged as one of NASCAR’s brightest young stars. Driving the No. 2 Whelen Engineering Chevrolet for Richard Childress Racing, Love has shown speed, composure, and consistency throughout his rookie Xfinity Series campaign. A multi-time ARCA Menards Series winner, Love continues to build momentum as he chases his first NASCAR national series championship.

Follow Jesse’s journey at JesseLoveRacing.com and on social media @JesseLoveRacing.

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About Richard Childress Racing

Richard Childress Racing (RCR) is one of the most respected organizations in NASCAR, founded in 1969 by former driver Richard Childress. Based in Welcome, North Carolina, RCR fields championship-caliber teams across NASCAR’s top series and is recognized for its commitment to excellence, innovation, and developing the next generation of racing talent.

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About Whelen Engineering

Whelen Engineering is a global leader in emergency warning and signaling equipment. Headquartered in the United States, the family-owned company designs and manufactures safety lighting and sirens used worldwide. Whelen has been a proud partner of Richard Childress Racing since 2022 and will continue as the primary sponsor of Jesse Love and the No. 2 Chevrolet for the 2026 NASCAR Xfinity Series season.