FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Eric Johnson Jr. will drive the No. 5 Pacific Office Automation Toyota Camry full-time for Jerry Pitts Racing in the 2025 season, aiming to secure the ARCA Series West Drivers/Owners Championship.
“After what I'd consider a successful rookie season, I’ve just been focused on trying to maximize our potential for the upcoming year. Last year was about learning these cars and earning respect both on and off the track. Now, my goal is simply to take what I've learned and use it to be at the front of the pack. Partnering with Jerry Pitts Racing just feels like the right move as we head into our first season together. I believe they have all the resources we need to win,” said Eric when asked about the teams announcement. “Jerry Pitts, Dustin Ash, and their team are driven to win the West Series Championship, and I’m honored they believe in me. They've clearly had great success with other drivers like Sean (Hingorani) and Kole (Raz) last season, so I don't see any reason why we couldn't compete for wins right out of the gate. I just need to work my hardest to do my part and let everything else fall into place. Honestly, I just feel super grateful for this opportunity. It's an exciting new change for us.” Jr added.
Eric Jr. joins Jerry Pitts Racing after one of the team's most successful seasons to date, and improving on last year's results seems to be a top priority for him. In 2024, Eric finished 6th in the drivers' standings and 5th in the owners' standings, with his best finish being 4th at Madera Speedway. With this, Johnson Jr earned the 2024 ARCA West Rookie of The Year award.
Prior AMSW Driver, Dustin Ash has been appointed Crew Chief with expected assistance from team owner, Jerry Pitts. Eric's spotter from last season, Logan Jewell is also expected to return alongside Eric as they pursue their second full-time season working together.
Stay tuned for an exciting year to come!