Corey Heim‘s outstanding season has intensified discussions regarding his future with 23XI Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series, as insiders now point to 2027 as the earliest opportunity for a full-time move to the Cup. Despite Heim’s dominant performances and growing experience, current contractual obligations at 23XI are the main factors influencing this timeline.
Heim’s Path as a Top NASCAR Prospect
Regarded as one of NASCAR’s most promising rising talents, the 22-year-old Corey Heim has already established himself in the Truck Series, showcasing both consistency and speed. His results this season underline why he’s often mentioned among the top prospects. Currently, Heim competes in the No. 11 Tundra TRD Pro for Tricon Garage, and at the midpoint of 2025, he leads the points standings with four race victories and ten top-ten finishes. These achievements reflect his rapid growth and shine a light on why 23XI Racing has selected him as their development driver.
Though Heim aspires to a permanent Cup Series seat, his near-term opportunities remain limited to part-time appearances. As reported by Jordan Bianchi of The Athletic, 23XI Racing will continue his development by giving Heim spot starts in the Cup Series but keeping him full-time elsewhere for now. The organization currently has Tyler Reddick, Bubba Wallace, and Riley Herbst under contract for the 2026 season, which means no full-time Cup seat will be available for Heim until 2027 at the earliest.
Showcasing Talent in Limited Cup Starts
Even with limited experience at the Cup level, Heim has made an impression with his two spot starts this season. He managed a commendable 13th-place finish at Kansas Speedway, showing competitiveness among NASCAR’s elite, but encountered a more difficult outing at Nashville Superspeedway, placing 37th. These efforts are part of a deliberate path designed by 23XI Racing to maximize Heim’s long-term potential while allowing for a gradual learning curve.
23XI’s Enthusiasm and Long-Term Plans
The 23XI Racing leadership and co-owner Denny Hamlin have voiced their unwavering confidence in Heim’s ability to become a key fixture in the Cup Series. In Hamlin’s own words:
“He’s going to be a Sunday Cup guy,”
—Denny Hamlin, 23XI co-owner
“There’s no doubt in my mind about it. He’s going to be with 23XI for the long haul.”
—Denny Hamlin, 23XI co-owner
Hamlin has also noted Heim’s commitment and progress within the organization:
“[Heim is] doing everything [he’s been] asked to,”
—Denny Hamlin, 23XI co-owner
Hamlin cited Heim’s frequent presence at the team‘s facility, his focus on improvement, and his patience while waiting for a permanent Cup opportunity. He also emphasized the championship team’s confidence in their development process for Heim, indicating both that Heim is satisfied with the long-term plan and that 23XI values his work ethic and adaptability.
Barriers Created by Team Structure
The main hurdle for Heim’s progression is structural: 23XI Racing currently operates with only three Cup Series charters, each tied up through the 2026 season. Hamlin addressed these limitations directly:
“But, ultimately, there’s only three cars, three charters that we’re allowed to have, and so we have to figure out in the future where we go with that.”
—Denny Hamlin, 23XI co-owner
This constraint underscores the challenge faced by teams like 23XI, as NASCAR’s charter system limits the number of entries per organization, regardless of the available talent pipeline. As a result, strategic decisions and potential future changes in team structure will likely be required for Heim to secure a full-time seat.
Outlook for Heim and the Team
Given Heim’s recent performances and 23XI’s strong endorsement, his future with the team appears promising. The ongoing development program, along with periodic Cup Series starts, is intended to strengthen Heim’s skills while waiting for contractual and organizational changes. Should his progress continue, and if 23XI Racing can adjust its team configuration, Corey Heim’s ascent to a full-time Cup Series role could mark a pivotal moment for both the driver and the organization. As the seasons unfold and existing contracts come to an end, all eyes will remain on Heim’s trajectory within NASCAR’s top tier.
