Sam Hunt Racing is preparing for its highly anticipated NASCAR Cup Series debut in 2026, signaling a bold strategic move for the organization as it plans to join NASCAR’s premier competition. This decision follows years of growth and competitive momentum, with the team leveraging key partnerships and strong driver lineups to make its mark in the racing world.
From Grassroots to the Cusp of NASCAR’s Top Division
Originating as DRIVE Technology in 2013, the organization was founded by Sam Hunt, who channeled his passion for racing by living out of a van in pursuit of his motorsports dreams. Their breakthrough occurred in 2019, when Sam Hunt Racing (SHR) debuted in the NASCAR Xfinity Series at Homestead-Miami Speedway, establishing themselves as rising competitors within the sport. Based in Mooresville, North Carolina, the team has steadily expanded operations and bolstered its presence in the racing community over recent years.
The 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series season represented a pivotal juncture for Sam Hunt Racing, characterized by high-profile driver rotations and partnership deals. Notably, the No. 24 car featured experienced names, including Ryan Truex, Corey Heim, Patrick Staropoli, and Jeffrey Earnhardt, each contributing uniquely to the team’s performance and development. Jeffrey Earnhardt, in particular, made several notable appearances, including a stint at Talladega Superspeedway, underscoring SHR’s commitment to attracting seasoned driving talent.
Positioning for the NASCAR Cup Series: Acquisitions and Partnerships
Sam Hunt Racing has made headlines with its recent purchase of Cup Series chassis, broadcasting clear intentions to ascend into the top level of NASCAR. Although the team has yet to issue a formal announcement, industry speculation points to a debut in the Cup Series as soon as late 2025 or early 2026. This step is in line with SHR’s expansion strategy and represents a leap forward as it aims to compete against established titans in the sport.
Presently, SHR campaigns the No. 26 Toyota Supra on a full-time basis with Dean Thompson behind the wheel, alongside the No. 24 entry for select events with drivers such as Christopher Bell and Corey Heim. Recent partnerships, like the deal bringing Oregon State University on board as a primary sponsor for the No. 26 at the Portland race, reflect an increased influence within the broader NASCAR landscape and a focus on collaborative growth. SHR’s robust relationship with Toyota Racing Development (TRD) has also fueled its upward trajectory, providing technical support that has contributed significantly to their Xfinity Series success.
“@Team_SHR26 has purchased Cup Series chassis and is expected to field a team within in the near future.While a timeline is unknown, an appearance in late 2025 or early 2026 is likely. pic.twitter.com/K69QoTyImw”
— The Daily Downfords (@DailyDownfords)
Looking back, the acquisition of competitive assets from Joe Gibbs Racing’s NASCAR K&N Pro Series East No. 18 team in 2022 further solidified SHR’s technical foundation. The close-knit operation has narrowly missed victory on multiple occasions, with John Hunter Nemechek earning three top-five finishes and Corey Heim challenging for wins in SHR-prepared cars. In a show of growing competitiveness, Christopher Bell fought for victory in Mexico City with the No. 24 entry, before mechanical issues cut his effort short.
Sam Hunt’s vision remains rooted in determination, reflecting on the team’s journey and future aspirations:
“We have one step left to be there consistently. We’ve covered the bingo card all around Victory Lane. I want all of the people who have left bigger, Cup-affiliated teams and have gotten on board with what we’re building to be in victory lane. I won’t say it’ll be the most special day in my life because I am married, but it’ll be close to it,”
— Sam Hunt, Team Owner.
SHR’s technical relationship with Joe Gibbs Racing extends through personnel as well, with experienced crew members such as Brian Gainey, previously the car chief for JGR’s No. 20 Xfinity squad, now contributing to the team. Key drivers, like Kaz Grala, have benefitted from the technical guidance and machinery provided by Toyota, making 2025 one of SHR’s most fruitful seasons to date.
Emergence of New Talent and Strategic Rotations
A crucial element in SHR’s growth has been the ability to develop and attract promising drivers. The 2025 season highlighted the flexibility of the No. 24 seat, featuring high-potential talents including Ryan Truex, Corey Heim, Patrick Staropoli, and Jeffrey Earnhardt. This diversity in experience and racing background added depth and tactical advantage to the organization as it navigated the challenges of the Xfinity Series.
Dean Thompson’s full-time commitment in the No. 26 Toyota Supra underlined the trust placed in emerging drivers. With Toyota’s continued support and the arrival of Oregon State University as a sponsor, Thompson and SHR demonstrated that strategic alliances are crucial in modern motorsports, allowing teams to adapt more rapidly to changing competition and technologies.
The team’s ambition and ability to remain competitive across various circuits, including events at major tracks like Portland and Talladega, have made it a notable force. As the organization gears up for its anticipated Cup Series debut, SHR’s blend of talent, experience, and innovation positions it as a legitimate contender ready to challenge longtime NASCAR powerhouses.
Leadership Perspective and Pursuit of Success
Sam Hunt Racing’s incremental successes and persistent drive illustrate the effectiveness of its leadership and vision. With personnel drawn from well-established operations, such as former Joe Gibbs Racing crew chief Brian Gainey and versatile technical staff, the team continues to establish itself in a crowded and competitive NASCAR environment. The guidance of Sam Hunt, who has nurtured the team from its inception, remains central to SHR’s push toward the elite level of stock car racing.
Real progress on the track is evidenced by consistent results, improved technical standards, and the capacity to regularly challenge for top placements. Drivers like John Hunter Nemechek and Corey Heim, both associated with Toyota, reinforce SHR’s image as a forward-thinking organization attracting both established and rising stars.
Meanwhile, SHR’s competitive momentum has captured the attention of industry insiders and fans alike, amplifying anticipation for their bright future. As rumors circulate and preparations continue for the team’s Cup Series entry, the mood among fans and within the motorsports community is one of excitement and optimism.
Driver Changes Shape the 2026 NASCAR Landscape
While Sam Hunt Racing sets its course for NASCAR’s top competition, other drivers and teams are also adapting to major changes for the upcoming seasons. Harrison Burton’s path in NASCAR has highlighted resilience, beginning with his four-win Xfinity Series campaign in 2020 with Joe Gibbs Racing. Moving up to the Cup Series with Wood Brothers Racing in 2022, Burton celebrated his first Cup victory at Daytona in August 2024.
The 2025 season posed new hurdles for Burton, who competed in the Xfinity Series with AM Racing’s No. 25 Ford Mustang. Over the season, he recorded two top-five and ten top-ten finishes, securing 12th place in the standings across 29 races. On October 8, 2025, Burton announced that he would continue with AM Racing in 2026, crediting the team’s atmosphere for facilitating significant progress after his loss of a Cup Series seat.
“I want to thank AM Racing, Tim Self and Wade Moore for the opportunity and trust at a pivotal moment in my career after I lost my Cup seat entering 2025. From Day 1, the group’s commitment and preparation helped us deliver tangible progress. So far, we have team-record top-five and top-10 results and the organization’s first trip to the Xfinity Series Playoffs.”
— Harrison Burton, Driver.
He also shared his pride in the team’s competitive strength, stating,
“I’m proud of how we show up each week, compete at the highest level and finish strong.”
— Harrison Burton, Driver.
AM Racing reciprocated the appreciation:
“The organization thanks Harrison and the Burton family for their professionalism and contributions on and off the track, and wishes them continued success in Harrison’s future endeavors.”
— AM Racing, Organization.
With Burton continuing his journey, speculation is mounting around possible new additions at AM Racing for 2026, with potential drivers like London Cassill, Kole Raz, and Carson Kvapil all mentioned as candidates. Their blend of experience and potential would further strengthen the team’s competitive outlook as the new season approaches.
The Road Ahead: An Evolving Competitive Field
Sam Hunt Racing’s anticipated NASCAR Cup Series debut in 2026 opens a new chapter for the organization and marks a defining moment as NASCAR’s competitive field continues to evolve. As teams like SHR leverage innovation and strategic alliances—with prominent partners such as Toyota Racing Development and Oregon State University—they are poised to challenge the status quo, bringing fresh narratives and rivalry to fans and competitors alike.
For drivers, crew members, and organizations, the shifting landscape signals new alliances, renewed opportunities, and heightened stakes as NASCAR’s 2026 season draws closer. SHR’s journey from humble beginnings to the brink of Cup Series competition is an inspiration for new and established teams, showing that with vision, resilience, and partnership, ascent to racing’s pinnacle remains within reach.
The coming months are expected to provide more concrete details on SHR’s final Cup Series entry plans, roster selections, and sponsor announcements. As excitement builds and preparations accelerate, the 2026 NASCAR season looks ready to deliver intense new rivalries, breakthrough moments, and a bold infusion of talent and ambition—with Sam Hunt Racing at the center of it all.
.@Team_SHR26 has purchased Cup Series chassis and is expected to field a team within in the near future.
While a timeline is unknown, an appearance in late 2025 or early 2026 is likely. pic.twitter.com/K69QoTyImw
— The Daily Downfords (@DailyDownfords) October 10, 2025
