Kevin Harvick on Rodney Childers has become a talking point in the NASCAR world, following the announcement that Childers will take the helm as crew chief for JR Motorsports’ No. 1 team in the 2026 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. Set to guide Carson Kvapil and Connor Zilisch, Childers’ new position marks a significant step for the team at JR Motorsports as they look to enhance their competitive edge.
Childers’ Experience Brings High Expectations
Rodney Childers served as Kevin Harvick’s crew chief during a highly successful period at Stewart-Haas Racing from 2014 through 2023, accumulating 37 wins, 148 top-five finishes, 230 top-ten placements, and capturing the Cup Series title in 2014. Childers spent 2024 overseeing Josh Berry before transitioning to Spire Motorsports for the 2025 season. However, his collaboration with Justin Haley proved short-lived, with their partnership ending after just nine race events.
This extensive background positions Childers as a seasoned leader with deep knowledge of strategy, performance, and teamwork at the top level of racing. When reflecting on Carson Kvapil’s progress, Kevin Harvick noted the importance of Childers’ upcoming guidance:
“Here’s the thing about Carson, I think when you look back at last year, he was in contention a lot. Obviously, the cars have not been as capable as they need to be this year compared to the 88 and 8 on the racetrack,”
—Kevin Harvick, NASCAR Driver
Harvick underscored that Childers’ leadership and experience will likely benefit the 22-year-old Kvapil in his development as a driver. Kvapil, currently competing for a championship and sitting fourth in the playoff standings despite not having a victory yet this year, is seen as a driver who could benefit significantly from stable and proven guidance.
“I think that bringing Rodney in and being able to have that solid leadership of experience and all the things to go with what he will bring to the table. It’s gonna make Kvapil shine.”
—Kevin Harvick, NASCAR Driver
Shared Ride, New Opportunities
The transition for Kvapil is notable, given that he will no longer have a full-time ride, with driving duties for the No. 1 team now split between him and Connor Zilisch. While this was unexpected due to Kvapil’s strong standing in the playoffs, the team is positioning itself for maximum performance and growth. Zilisch, who also plans a full-time Cup schedule next season, brings additional energy and promise to the team.
“That kid is good, and he’s a good racer, he proved that last year and the year before when he first got into that car. But he’s a winner, and I think that’s gonna show up next year. … I’m happy for JR Motorsports and Rodney to be able to put that all together to get him going.”
—Kevin Harvick, NASCAR Driver
Rodney Childers Excited for New Chapter
Childers expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity in a press announcement, highlighting his long-standing respect for the group at JR Motorsports and his eagerness to work with both Kvapil and Zilisch as they continue to develop their talent.
“I’m so excited to be joining the JRM family,”
—Rodney Childers, Crew Chief
“To see what Dale, Kelley, and Mr. H have built here is quite amazing, and their results show for themselves. Dale and Kelley have meant a lot to me for some 30 years, and I can’t wait to be part of this group. Plus, I get to be the lucky guy to lead two amazing young men that have a huge amount of talent and a big future in our sport.”
—Rodney Childers, Crew Chief
Implications for JR Motorsports and NASCAR
With this leadership change at JR Motorsports, the team stands to benefit from Childers’ proven track record. This move is poised to foster a culture of learning and excellence, particularly for young drivers like Carson Kvapil. Harvick’s confidence in the pairing, the backing of notable figures such as Dale and Kelley, and the integration of experienced leadership create a promising future for the No. 1 team in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. Fans and analysts alike will be watching how the combined talents of Childers, Kvapil, and Zilisch shape the next chapter of success for JR Motorsports, potentially influencing strategies across the broader NASCAR community.
