Latinos in NASCAR Racing
BEHIND THE
HELMET
Jesus Quintero is a passionate and driven stock car racer whose journey is defined by perseverance, heart, and an unbreakable love for speed. Racing has been both a source of joy and a pillar of strength for Jesus, especially through personal hardships. It has shaped who he is on and off the track, fueling his determination to keep pushing forward and chase new goals, including another championship title and the dream of competing at higher levels of motorsports.
A first-generation Mexican American, Jesus takes great pride in the values of hard work, resilience, and dedication that were instilled in him from a young age. His love for cars and anything on wheels began early, growing into a lifelong passion that would eventually lead him to the driver’s seat.
Beyond racing, Jesus is a Taekwondo black belt and an avid snowboarder, both reflecting his discipline, athleticism, and love for adrenaline. At his core, however, family is everything. Their support motivates him, grounds him, and inspires him to continue striving for excellence in every aspect of life.
For Jesus Quintero, racing is more than a sport, it is a purpose, a lifestyle, and a testament to what is possible through hard work, heart, and perseverance.
'22 & '23 season: farewell irwindale
Racing since the age of 14, Jesus Quintero made his official debut at Irwindale Speedway, a track that would become the foundation of his career. It was there that he rose through the ranks, capturing two back-to-back championships and establishing himself as a formidable competitor.
Irwindale Speedway was more than just a racetrack, it was a cornerstone of Southern California motorsports and one of the last true short tracks in the region. For Jesus, it became a second home. He is deeply grateful that his championship years were spent at Irwindale, a place that shaped him not only as a driver, but as a person.
Those seasons at Irwindale represent more than trophies; they represent growth, perseverance, and memories that will forever be part of his racing journey.
2025: championship after 1 year hiatus
Jesus Quintero makes a triumphant return as track champion at Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway after taking a one-year hiatus.
In March 2024, Jesus Quintero faced one of the hardest moments of his life, the loss of his beloved sister. The pain was overwhelming, and for the first time, he stepped away from the track, putting racing on hold to grieve, to be with his family, and to honor her memory. Those months were filled with reflection, heartache, and the quiet understanding of what truly matters in life.
Now, a year later, Jesus returns to racing, not just to compete, but with a renewed mission. Every turn, every lap, and every finish line is a tribute to his sister and a testament to his family. Racing is no longer just about speed or victory; it is about love, resilience, and purpose. As a devoted brother and son, Jesus channels his grief into determination, approaching the sport with kindness, focus, and a deeper connection to the values that drive him both on and off the track.
For Jesus Quintero, racing is now a journey of heart, every race a way to honor those he loves and to inspire others with courage, dedication, and unwavering family devotion
2026 BREAKTHROUGH: reality series
Get Ready for “Saturday Night Lights”: The Reality Series Showcasing the Next Generation of Racing Stars.
At the heart of the series is rising star Jesus Quintero, whose journey embodies the grit and determination required to make it in motorsports. Through long hours of practice, intense competition, and personal sacrifices, viewers see firsthand how hard work and focus can shape a racer’s destiny. Quintero’s story is more than just about winning racing, it’s about ambition, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of a dream.
Motorsports fans have a new reason to mark their calendars this February. Saturday Night Lights, a 2026 motorsports reality TV series, is set to premiere on February 14 on VIZIO WatchFree+ and Full Throttle TV (Channel 1311).
This high-octane series takes viewers inside the world of NASCAR-style racing, following a group of elite young drivers as they compete in a series of seven high-stakes races, all under the age of 21.
Filmed at the legendary Kevin Harvick’s Kern Raceway, Saturday Night Lights captures the raw intensity of short-track racing. Every lap, every turn, and every split-second decision matters, as these young competitors push their limits to prove they have what it takes to be the best. The cameras don’t just capture the speed, they reveal the pressure, the rivalries, and the moments of triumph that define the sport.
Saturday Night Lights doesn’t just showcase the races; it highlights the personal stories behind the helmets. From heated rivalries to breakthrough victories, the series offers a rare glimpse into the world of young athletes chasing greatness, where every decision on and off the track can make or break their career.
Whether you’re a die-hard racing fan or a newcomer to the sport, Saturday Night Lights promises to deliver drama, excitement, and inspiration, one lap at a time. Don’t miss the premiere and experience the next generation of racing stars as they fight for glory under the lights.
Major Achievements
2022
IRWINDALE SPEEDWAY TRACK CHAMPION
1st Place Overall | Tour Truck Division
2023
IRWINDALE SPEEDWAY TRACK CHAMPION
1st Place Overall | Tour Truck Division
2025
kERN RACEWAY CHAMPION
1st Place Overall | Tour Truck Division