Justin Allgaier, reigning Xfinity Series champion and current JR Motorsports driver, will see his crew chief, Jim Pohlman, join Kyle Busch‘s No. 8 Richard Childress Racing team for the 2026 season. The Kyle Busch crew chief news leaves Allgaier both supportive and reflective as his championship-winning partner takes a significant step in his career.
Allgaier, who celebrated his first Xfinity Series title with Pohlman last year, continues to compete at a high level this season, holding second place in the standings and maintaining a notable 44-point margin above the playoff cutoff. Despite the change ahead, Allgaier has been open about the transition.
Allgaier Backs Pohlman’s Move to Cup Series with Encouragement
During a recent discussion with NASCAR, Allgaier spoke candidly about the situation and the conversation he had with Jim Pohlman regarding the shift to the Cup Series with Kyle Busch. Expressing only the deepest support, Allgaier explained how he encouraged his crew chief to pursue the new opportunity.
“would be an idiot if he didn’t take.”
Said Justin Allgaier
While Allgaier expressed that he would miss working closely with Pohlman, he also acknowledged how important the move was for his crew chief’s long-term ambitions. He shared just how meaningful Pohlman has been to his career, highlighting Pohlman’s dream of competing as a full-time Cup Series crew chief and chasing a championship at the highest level of the sport.
“I am sad to see him go because he has meant the world to me – and still will. His dream has been to be a full-time Cup Series crew chief, to have a shot for going for a championship. He has had forays and been able to be on the Cup side, but not in this scenario.”
As their partnership comes to a close after notable accomplishments, including securing nine race wins together since 2023, Allgaier spoke proudly about everything they achieved. He expressed his gratitude for their shared success and the impressive milestones reached under Pohlman’s leadership.
“As sad as I am to see that go, he accomplished everything we ever asked for. If you could write it all down on paper, you couldn’t even ask for those stats,”
he added.
The Remaining Races Together Ahead of the Transition
The 2024 season is not over for the two, as Allgaier and Pohlman are aiming to defend their championship title with several races still ahead. Their immediate focus is on the upcoming United Rentals 250, set for Talladega Superspeedway, where they hope to continue their strong performance. The event will take place on Saturday, October 18, featuring 94 laps, with broadcast coverage on CW starting at 4 p.m. ET, and live radio commentary available via MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.
Allgaier’s Other Opportunities with Top Teams
Earlier in the year, Justin Allgaier was selected by Hendrick Motorsports to substitute for Kyle Larson in the No. 5 Chevy Camaro during the 2025 NASCAR All-Star Race. This opportunity arose as Larson was committed to qualifying for the Indianapolis 500, marking another attempt at completing the “Double”—competing in both the Indy 500 and Coca-Cola 600 on the same day. Allgaier was also listed as the standby driver for the Coca-Cola 600, which followed the All-Star weekend.
Cliff Daniels, crew chief for Kyle Larson, acknowledged Allgaier’s support and adaptability:
“We’re fortunate to have Justin and we appreciate him stepping in to help,”
Cliff Daniels, crew chief for Larson, said in a statement.
“He and Kyle are very similar in size, so there’s a lot in the cockpit that’s common between the two.”
Daniels further explained the advantages of Allgaier’s experience at the track:
“He’s had some time in the simulator driving the track and he did the wheel-force test there a year ago, so he’s got some experience in the Cup car at North Wilkesboro. We’re looking to put in a solid practice and make sure the car drives good,”
he added.
When the race weekend arrived, Allgaier contributed by handling practice and qualifying sessions, preparing the car for Larson, who ultimately placed 21st in the main event at North Wilkesboro.
Looking Forward: Impact of Pohlman’s Move and Allgaier’s Future
The news about Jim Pohlman joining Kyle Busch’s team at Richard Childress Racing signals a pivotal shift in NASCAR’s competitive landscape. For Allgaier, the end of this chapter brings both emotions and optimism as he seeks to finish the current season strong and reflect on a partnership marked by considerable success. With his crew chief’s dream realized and Allgaier continuing to attract respected roles—including high-profile substitute duties with organizations like Hendrick Motorsports—both men look to have bright futures within the sport, continuing to influence NASCAR at some of its biggest events and venues, including Talladega Superspeedway and beyond.
