The NASCAR garage is bracing for a major shift as Randall Burnett leaves Richard Childress Racing to guide rising star Connor Zilisch at Justin Marks’ Trackhouse Racing in 2026. Burnett’s move links a seasoned crew chief with one of the sport’s most promising young drivers, while leaving Kyle Busch and RCR searching for answers after a challenging stretch of winless seasons and missed playoff opportunities. This bold change sets up a dramatic new chapter for both organizations.
Key Highlights
- Randall Burnett departs Richard Childress Racing after the 2025 season to become Connor Zilisch’s crew chief at Trackhouse Racing.
- Burnett’s tenure with Kyle Busch yielded three wins but no victories in the past two years and missed playoff berths.
- Zilisch, 19, has nine NASCAR Xfinity Series wins in 2025 and three Cup starts, including an 11th-place finish at Atlanta.
- Zilisch will replace Daniel Suárez at Trackhouse in 2026, teaming with Ross Chastain and Shane van Gisbergen.
- RCR has not announced a replacement for Burnett, leaving Busch’s future crew chief unknown.
Randall Burnett’s RCR Tenure Ends
Randall Burnett joined Richard Childress Racing in 2020 and quickly built a strong résumé, winning four races with Tyler Reddick and three with Kyle Busch. His pairing with Busch began in 2023 and initially produced playoff appearances, but the last two years brought no wins and growing frustration. The decision to leave underscores the pressure of maintaining performance at NASCAR’s highest level.
Burnett previously worked with A.J. Allmendinger at JTG Daugherty Racing, showing experience that now moves to Trackhouse. RCR must find a leader capable of supporting Busch, the sport’s winningest active driver, as the team regroups for 2026.
Connor Zilisch’s Rapid Rise
Connor Zilisch has emerged as one of the brightest young talents in NASCAR. At 19, he has already collected nine wins in the 2025 Xfinity Series season, putting him within reach of Kyle Busch’s single-season win record. Zilisch also gained valuable experience in three Cup Series starts, highlighted by an 11th-place finish at Atlanta. His promotion to Trackhouse’s Cup team for 2026 was confirmed with a post from the organization:
“NEWS: Welcome to The House, Randall Burnett! He joins as @ConnorZilisch‘s crew chief for 2026.” – Trackhouse Racing
Zilisch matched the enthusiasm, posting his own message to fans.
“Stoked to welcome Randall to the team! Can’t wait for next year.” – Connor Zilisch
Trackhouse Looks Ahead
Trackhouse Racing has positioned itself as a hub for emerging talent and seasoned strategy. By pairing Burnett with Zilisch, the team strengthens its future while already fielding contenders Ross Chastain and Shane van Gisbergen. Zilisch will replace Daniel Suárez in the organization’s three-car lineup, signaling a long-term investment in youth and performance. Burnett’s experience with top-tier drivers and race-winning setups aligns with Trackhouse’sgoal to compete at the highest level from the outset of Zilisch’s full-time Cup career.
Uncertain Future for RCR
While Trackhouse celebrates a major addition, Richard Childress Racing faces a critical offseason. Kyle Busch, who joined the team with championship ambitions, must now adjust to a new voice atop the pit box. Burnett’s exit follows a period of winless seasons and missed playoffs, increasing the urgency for RCR to find a capable successor. Veteran observers noted the potential for change well before it became official, reinforcing the significance of this leadership shift.
News in Brief: Leadership Void Looms at RCR Following Justin Marks’ Move
Randall Burnett will leave Richard Childress Racing after the 2025 season to become crew chief for 19-year-old Connor Zilisch at Trackhouse Racing. Burnett’s move ends a partnership with Kyle Busch that produced three wins but no recent success. Zilisch, who has nine Xfinity victories and three Cup starts, will replace Daniel Suárez in 2026 alongside Ross Chastain and Shane van Gisbergen. RCR has yet to name Burnett’s successor.
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