The landscape of the NASCAR Cup Series is shifting as Randall Burnett, longtime crew chief for Kyle Busch and the #8 Richard Childress Racing team, prepares to leave for Trackhouse Racing in 2026. The move marks a significant moment for both Busch and his squad, prompting discussions throughout the industry, including candid comments from Denny Hamlin on Kyle Busch and what the future may hold for everyone involved.
Struggles Continue for Busch and Burnett Partnership
Over the past two seasons, the once-productive partnership between Busch and Burnett has faced mounting challenges. The 2024 NASCAR Cup campaign stood out as the first in Busch’s storied career where he failed to capture a win or secure a playoff spot, a slump that worried many in the racing community and extended well into the 2025 season. After thirty-one races this year, Busch has tallied only two top-five finishes and eight top-10s, while his winless streak has reached 88 races—a number that seems poised to grow further. Frustrations have become evident, with spotter Derek Kneeland expressing displeasure over the radio in Kansas, just after Burnett’s departure was announced.
Hamlin Weighs In on the Need for Change
The ongoing struggles may have prompted Burnett’s decision to seek fresh opportunities at Trackhouse Racing, an organization on the rise and increasingly regarded as championship contenders. Denny Hamlin addressed the situation directly, providing insight into why such changes sometimes become necessary for all parties:
“I think he needed a change. I think all parties kind of need a change, and certainly Kyle’s going through it right now. Certainly, the performance is not there,”
Denny Hamlin, NASCAR driver and team owner.
“I am a believer that Kyle Busch still has the ability to go win races.”
Denny Hamlin, NASCAR driver and team owner.
“I do think that his cars are off, but I don’t think they’re off to the extent that we’re seeing on Sundays. Like, I don’t know that Randall Bernett is making the car spin out every week or hit the wall every week…But certainly it’s not good. So I think everyone just wanted a change of scenery and they’re all going to get it.”
Denny Hamlin, NASCAR driver and team owner.
Hamlin’s perspective acknowledges both the technical challenges facing the team and the psychological toll that comes with an extended winless period. He underscores the need for renewal, not just for Busch but for Burnett and the entire #8 crew.
Burnett’s Next Chapter with Trackhouse Racing and Connor Zilisch
Randall Burnett will serve as crew chief for Connor Zilisch when Zilisch steps up to the Cup Series in 2026. Burnett brings substantial experience with six Cup victories—three achieved with Tyler Reddick in 2022 and another three with Busch the following year. Before moving to the Cup Series, Burnett and Reddick claimed the Xfinity Series title in 2019 with a dominant performance.
Trackhouse Racing’s lineup has attracted attention, featuring talents like Ross Chastain and road course expert Shane van Gisbergen. With Zilisch’s strong track record in Xfinity—already a nine-time winner—expectations are high for this new collaboration. Burnett expressed optimism about his forthcoming role:
“I’m excited about my opportunity over there, and you know, obviously, something’s got to change on this 8 car. We haven’t been performing the way we needed to. I think everybody needs a fresh start. I got a really good opportunity with where I’m going. Obviously, Connor’s a great young talent…So, you know, just kind of all worked out.”
Randall Burnett, NASCAR crew chief.
What Lies Ahead for Busch and the Richard Childress Racing Team?
This high-profile split and shuffle signal a critical juncture for both Kyle Busch and Richard Childress Racing. As Burnett sets out to mentor rising star Connor Zilisch at Trackhouse, the #8 team now faces the challenge of finding a new leader who can revive Busch’s championship prospects. With stakes high and the competitive nature of NASCAR ensuring little time for adjustment, all eyes will be on these teams in the coming seasons, watching to see if the personnel changes will bring about a return to form or signal a longer rebuilding period for all involved.
