Almirola signed a multi-year deal to drive JR Motorsports' No. 88 Chevrolet in the Nationwide Series fulltime beginning next season.

The 26-year-old Tampa native has 32 career Nationwide starts, including one for JR Motorsports in which he finished third at O’Reilly Raceway Park in Clermont, Ind., in July.

Almirola could drive the No. 88 in select races later this season as well while he continues with his fulltime ride in the Truck Series with Billy Ballew Motorsports.

"We raced at ORP together a month ago and had a really good run. There is no reason why we cannot compete like that every race, and there is no reason why we shouldn’t be running for a championship," Almirola said. "I would expect nothing less.”

JRM co-owner Kelley Earnhardt said she was glad the organization took its time to find the right driver.

“He brings a lot to the table for us, as well as our sponsors," she said of Almirola. "He is someone they can build their brands around, and he has the talent to take them to the Winner’s Circle.”

In 15 Truck races this season, Almirola has two wins (Dover, Del., and Michigan) and has finished in the top-10 in all but four events. He is second in the series standings behind leader Todd Bodine.