Allmendinger will drive for Gillett Evernham in Phoenix

AJ Allmendinger will make his first NASCAR Nationwide Series start of the season when he drives the No. 9 Gillett Evernham Motorsports Dodge this weekend at Phoenix International Raceway.

Allmendinger has seven career starts in what is now known as the Nationwide Series but hasn’t raced in it since Homestead in 2007. He secured his career-best series' finish at PIR one year ago when he finished 13th. The team is 16th in owner points.

He is also attempting to make the field for the Cup race with Gillett Evernham.

“Any driver will tell you that all they want to do is race," Allmendinger said. “This weekend I get double the opportunity with the Nationwide and Cup races. I was thrilled when I saw the Phoenix race on my schedule. I appreciate Gillett Evernham giving me the opportunity to run the Valvoline Dodge, and I hope we can earn a strong finish.

“Racing on the Nationwide side of things is a lot of fun. I really enjoyed it when I raced over there last year. I know the Valvoline team are hard workers, but they like to make things fun, too. It helps make for a great atmosphere to work in." Scenedaily.com