If you managed to get through April Fool's Day yesterday without falling for something, congratulations, because the same cannot be said for some NASCAR fans.
That's in part thanks to 397-race Cup Series driver, J.J. Yeley, who took to social media with an April Fool's joke of his own, tricking some into thinking he'd called time on his racing career.
Although Yeley no longer races full-time in NASCAR, he continues to do so on a part-time basis, entering events in both the Cup and O'Reilly Auto Parts Series so far this season.
JJ Yeley's April Fool's retirement statement
The 49-year-old Phoenix, Arizona native had some convinced he would not set foot in a NASCAR car again, though, releasing the following statement on X on Wednesday.
"To my fans, friends, and sponsors," Yeley's open letter began. I have had a career many could only dream of, and I am forever grateful for every opportunity to race.
"In recent years, I have reflected on what is most important to me: racing, and my family. My wife and daughter are the light of my life.
"Because of this, I am going to keep being a proud father and loving husband as I continue my career.
"This weekend in Rockingham will simply be another race, and I cannot wait for the green flag.
"I don’t plan on retiring anytime soon, and you should probably learn to read carefully if you fell for this. April Fools.
"Thank you for the memories, J.J. Yeley."
Yeley set to drive No. 5 Ford at Rockingham
As Yeley's statement alluded to, he will be driving in the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series race at Rockingham Speedway this weekend, piloting the No. 5 Ford for Hettinger Racing.
So far this season, the 49-year-old has raced twice in the series, at COTA and at Darlington, finishing 28th and 25th, respectively.
Yeley's overall record in the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series stands at 395 races, 15 top-5s, and 48 top-10s.
