Rajah Caruth is set to join JR Motorsports for a part-time campaign in the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, adding to his growing presence in the racing world and fueling excitement among fans and teams. The announcement, which spotlights the “Rajah Caruth JR Motorsports 2026” collaboration, positions Caruth in the No. 88 Chevrolet while he continues his full-time commitment in the Truck Series with Spire Motorsports.
JR Motorsports Adds Rising Star to 2026 Driver Lineup
The team revealed its latest addition on Tuesday, confirming that Caruth will take on a part-time schedule in their iconic No. 88 car. The move comes as Caruth, just 23 years old, builds an impressive record in NASCAR’s feeder series, striving to make a greater impact at higher levels of competition. While he continues to represent Spire Motorsports in the Truck Series, this opportunity with JR Motorsports demonstrates his appeal as a talent with real momentum.
“Rollin’ with Rajah in 2026.@rajahcaruth_ joins JR Motorsports for a part-time schedule in the No. 88 @HendrickCars.com Chevrolet. pic.twitter.com/Vj9mQni3xb”
— JR Motorsports (@JRMotorsports)
Caruth’s journey in the Xfinity Series includes 22 starts, where he has twice finished 12th at Martinsville Speedway during the fall of 2022 and 2023—his current career best in the series. This season, he participated in three Xfinity events, with his highest placing being 18th at Kansas Speedway last month.
Breakthrough Performances Highlight Caruth’s Truck Series Career
Caruth’s progress has been even more pronounced in the Truck Series, especially during the 2025 season. He claimed his second Truck Series victory at Nashville Superspeedway, further substantiating his capabilities among a fiercely competitive field. The achievement helped secure him a spot in the playoffs for a second straight year, and his performance suggests he is a strong contender to advance to the Championship 4.
Playoff Push Continues Ahead of Truck Series Finale
Entering the crucial Round of 8 finale this Friday at Martinsville, Caruth sits second in the Truck Series playoff standings and holds a 14-point buffer above the cutline. Last Friday at Talladega Superspeedway, he secured a ninth-place finish and amassed 46 points—the highest among the remaining playoff drivers. Although Caruth believed a win was within reach, the final moments didn’t break his way.
“I would say pretty frustrated there with how it ended, for sure,”
— Rajah Caruth, Driver
“I didn’t want to split Corey, it’s just I got kind of popped at the wrong time, I felt like. Still a great points day, thank you to [Rick and Linda Hendrick], everybody at Spire, Chevrolet, GM, for all that they do, not just for [me], but for all of our teammates. So, frustrated with the end, but still a great points day.”
— Rajah Caruth, Driver
Caruth’s playoff quest at Martinsville remains a focal point, especially as he continues to race alongside Spire Motorsports teammate Corey LaJoie. The competitive energy he brings is earning attention, with vital support from key figures like Rick and Linda Hendrick and the Spire and Chevrolet teams.
JR Motorsports’ 2026 Roster Takes Shape
The 2026 season will feature a diverse roster at JR Motorsports. Alongside Caruth’s part-time duties, Justin Allgaier returns at the helm of the No. 7 car, while Sammy Smith takes the seat of the No. 8 entry. The No. 1 will be shared between Connor Zilisch and Carson Kvapil, with Rodney Childers as crew chief guiding both drivers. The team’s evolving lineup balances experience and rising talent, aiming to sustain its competitive edge across all entries.
Looking Ahead: Caruth Poised for More Success
Rajah Caruth’s dual role with JR Motorsports and Spire Motorsports boosts his visibility and positions him for further accomplishments in both the Xfinity and Truck Series circuits. As the 2026 JR Motorsports roster continues to develop, Caruth’s inclusion underscores the organization’s strategy to blend emerging drivers with proven competitors. With the ongoing Truck Series playoffs and a promising start with JR Motorsports on the horizon, Caruth’s trajectory will be closely watched by fans and teams throughout NASCAR.
Rollin' with Rajah in 2026.@rajahcaruth_ joins JR Motorsports for a part-time schedule in the No. 88 @HendrickCars.com Chevrolet. pic.twitter.com/Vj9mQni3xb
— JR Motorsports (@JRMotorsports) October 21, 2025
