Haas Factory Team’s tactical decision to align with Chevrolet for the 2026 NASCAR season signifies a crucial shift in the racing landscape. This change from Ford, coupled with a new engineering partnership with Hendrick Motorsports, is poised to reshape their competitive edge. As Haas returns to its Chevrolet roots, the implications for their NASCAR Cup Series and Xfinity Series entries are substantial. What does this mean for the future of NASCAR dynamics and team strategies?
Key Highlights
- Haas Factory Team switches from Ford to Chevrolet for its NASCAR Cup and Xfinity Series programs in 2026.
- New engineering alliance with Hendrick Motorsports provides Haas access to Hendrick-built engines.
- The shift signifies a return to Haas’s roots, having started with Chevrolet in 2002.
- Cole Custer continues in the Cup Series, driving the No. 41 Chevrolet.
- Sheldon Creed and Sam Mayer remain in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series for Haas.
Haas Factory Team’s 2026 Move
Haas Factory Team’s tactical decision to align with Chevrolet in 2026 marks a significant shift in their NASCAR operations. This calculated move encompasses their entire NASCAR Cup Series program and two full-time entries in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, adapting to the soon-to-be-renamed NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.
The manufacturer switch from Ford to Chevrolet signifies not only a change in brand allegiance but also a broader tactical realignment. Central to this alteration is their new engineering alliance with Hendrick Motorsports, ensuring access to Hendrick-built engines across both series.
This collaboration is poised to utilize Hendrick’s technological expertise, potentially enhancing Haas’s competitive advantage. Such a realignment indicates Haas’s commitment to long-term performance optimization and competitive success within NASCAR’s dynamic landscape.
A Thank You to Ford
Expressing gratitude, the Haas Factory Team acknowledges the essential role Ford played in their NASCAR expedition. Their collaboration with Ford was foundational, enabling the establishment and competitive growth of the team.
Joe Custer, the team’s president, emphasized their steadfast commitment to maintaining high performance throughout the season finale in Phoenix, highlighting the depth of their partnership.
“First and foremost, we want to thank Ford for its partnership. Their support allowed us to establish Haas Factory Team and we remain dedicated to delivering results for them in Cup and Xfinity all the way through the season finale in Phoenix.” -Joe Custer
This tactical alignment with Ford has undeniably set the stage for Haas’s evolving expedition in NASCAR.
Full-Circle Moment for Haas
The concept of homecoming encapsulates the Haas Factory Team’s tactical shift back to Chevrolet in 2026, marking a significant milestone in its NASCAR expedition.
The alignment with Chevrolet signifies a return to roots for Haas, whose NASCAR odyssey commenced with Haas CNC Racing in 2002. The collaboration with Tony Stewart in 2009, forming Stewart-Haas Racing, initially saw the team campaigning Chevrolets until 2016.
“Personally, I have a deep history with Chevrolet and Hendrick Motorsports. Both helped in establishing not only my presence as a team owner in NASCAR, but also the presence of Haas Automation. Together, we were able to build a race team that competed for wins and championships while growing the use of Haas CNC machinery throughout the racing and manufacturing industries.” – Haas
Gene Haas acknowledges the crucial role Chevrolet and Hendrick Motorsports played in establishing his presence as a team owner and in promoting Haas Automation’s growth.
This renewed alliance not only reignites historical ties but also reinforces Haas’s legacy, leveraging past successes to propel future endeavors within the highly competitive NASCAR landscape.
Hendrick’s Take on the Alliance
Recognizing the historical significance of their renewed partnership, Rick Hendrick of Hendrick Motorsports reflects on the deep-rooted relationship between his organization and Gene Haas’s team.
Hendrick emphasizes their shared history, marked by championship victories, which lends a sense of homecoming to the alliance. This partnership traces back to the utilization of Haas CNC machines in Hendrick’s facilities, highlighting a longstanding technological collaboration.
“We have a long history with Gene and his organization, including winning championships together, so this feels almost like a homecoming.”
“Our relationship started many years ago with Haas CNC machines in our facilities, and I’ve always admired the passion that he and Joe Custer have for the sport and their desire to win. We’re proud to support Haas Factory Team and thrilled to work together to deliver more victories for Chevrolet.” – Rick Hendrick
Hendrick expresses admiration for Haas and Joe Custer’s dedication to motorsports and their relentless pursuit of success. He articulates pride in supporting the Haas Factory Team and anticipates their collaboration will strengthen Chevrolet’s standing in NASCAR.
Drivers and Debut Timeline
In the upcoming NASCAR season, Haas Factory Team is set to make a significant return with Chevrolet, marking a new chapter in their motorsport expedition.
This tactical realignment will see seasoned driver Cole Custer maintain his role in the Cup Series, piloting the No. 41 entry. Similarly, Sheldon Creed and Sam Mayer will continue their pursuits in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.
Their debut timeline is as follows:
- Feb. 1: Official re-debut at Cook Out Clash, Bowman Gray Stadium with Custer in the No. 41 Chevrolet.
- Feb. 14: Creed and Mayer to compete in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series opener at Daytona International Speedway.
- No. 00 entry: Driven by Sheldon Creed.
- No. 41 entry: Driven by Sam Mayer alongside Custer.
News in Brief: Haas Aligns With Chevrolet—Major NASCAR Shakeup for 2026
The tactical shift by Haas Factory Team to align with Chevrolet for the 2026 NASCAR season marks a crucial moment in the racing landscape. This decision, highlighted by a new engineering partnership with Hendrick Motorsports, aims to enhance Haas’s competitive edge by leveraging Chevrolet’s advanced technology and engines. As Haas departs from its longstanding partnership with Ford, the move is both a nod to its historical roots and a calculated step toward future success on the racetrack.
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