Corey Heim’s ascent in NASCAR continues to draw attention, as new details on the Corey Heim 2026 NASCAR plan confirm he will remain without a full-time Cup Series seat for another year. Details from industry insiders reveal that although Heim shows clear promise and readiness for NASCAR’s top level, factors outside his control are delaying his full-time move.
Combination Schedule Set for 2026
Despite speculation about Heim stepping up, plans now indicate he will race a part-time calendar across multiple NASCAR national series in 2026. Jordan Bianchi of The Athletic reported this update, citing industry sources. Heim is set to participate in selected Cup Series races with 23XI Racing, compete in O’Reilly Auto Parts Series events with Sam Hunt Racing, and continue racing in the Truck Series for Tricon. These arrangements show his versatility and ongoing growth across NASCAR’s competitive platforms.
“The likely plan for Heim, according to industry sources, is a combination schedule where he runs select races in all three national series — in the Cup Series for 23XI Racing, in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series for Sam Hunt Racing and in the Truck Series for Tricon,”
—Jordan Bianchi, The Athletic
No Full-Time Cup Ride Until 2027
Industry sentiment overwhelmingly supports Heim’s readiness for a full-time Cup Series ride, but practical barriers remain. With no open seats and sponsorship struggles, he must wait at least one more year for a coveted full-time position. The expectation is for Heim to move up to a regular Cup Series schedule in 2027, should funding and opportunities align. In the meantime, the possibility remains that he could secure full-time placement in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, depending on sponsorship developments.
“This is not necessarily what Heim deserves, as most everyone within the Cup Series garage acknowledges he is ready for a full-time ride now, but a combination of no open seats in Cup and a lack of sponsorship means he’ll have to wait until 2027 before advancing to Cup full-time — which is expected to happen. And if the right funding can be secured, Heim racing full-time in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series next year is still on the table.”
—Jordan Bianchi, The Athletic
Heim’s Track Record and Rising Profile
Since 2023, Corey Heim has competed full-time in the Truck Series, earning regular season titles twice, most recently this year. Demonstrating remarkable consistency, he has gathered wins and high finishes, proving his capability at this level. Heim also has recent experience in the Cup Series, having driven in two Cup races for Legacy last season, a race for 23XI Racing in 2023, and two Cup starts for 23XI this year. These results underscore his progression and adaptability across series.
Industry Perspective and Future Prospects
Further supporting reports, FOX Sports reporter Bob Pockrass noted earlier this month that while Heim is expected to not secure a Cup seat for 2026, shifts to the Xfinity Series could offer him avenues to race full-time. With five Truck Series victories and ten top-five finishes in just sixteen starts, Heim’s strong performance has made industry observers take notice.
“Heim has dominated the trucks this year with five wins and 10 top fives in 16 starts,”
—Bob Pockrass, FOX Sports
“He clinched the regular-season points title with two races left. Already signed with 23XI Racing, he will likely have to wait until 2027 to be in a Cup car full-time. Whether he’s in an Xfinity car full-time in 2026 is still TBD.”
—Bob Pockrass, FOX Sports
Significance of Heim’s Waiting Game
Corey Heim remains a highly regarded talent within the NASCAR community, earning recognition from figures like Brian Jones of On3 and others across the industry. His ability and results have made him a strong candidate for future vacancies in teams like 23XI Racing and across the garage. As Heim continues to build his credentials in the Truck Series and potentially the O’Reilly Auto Parts or Xfinity Series, observers expect he will be one of the most sought-after additions to the Cup Series when a seat becomes available. For now, the anticipation around the Corey Heim 2026 NASCAR plan underscores his prominence and the competitive challenges faced by rising stars in stock car racing.
