Whelen Engineering, which has been a prominent name in the emergency warning sector for over seven decades, will remain an anchor sponsor for Richard Childress Racing into 2026 on the No. 2 Chevrolet in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. Jesse Love, recognized as a standout competitor and ambassador, will return to the team to lead the race-winning entry, further strengthening the Richard Childress Racing partnership as both organizations look ahead to a new season.
Commitment to Growth and Shared Values
Whelen Engineering’s ongoing collaboration with Richard Childress Racing has helped the organization increase its influence in the NASCAR Xfinity Series since their agreement began in 2022. Peter Tiezzi, Whelen Engineering’s motorsports general manager, emphasized the value of Richard Childress Racing’s representation over the years, stating,
“Richard Childress Racing has been an excellent ambassador for Whelen Engineering over the years,”
and also added,
“We’re excited to extend our partnership and continue to impact the communities we serve through our race team partnership in 2026. We both remain focused on providing industry-leading solutions. Jesse Love has done a phenomenal job representing our brand. We wish him the best in his NASCAR Playoffs run this season and look forward to competing alongside him and RCR for a championship in 2026.”
— Peter Tiezzi, General Manager of Motorsports, Whelen Engineering.
The partnership has become a cornerstone for both Whelen and Richard Childress Racing, with Whelen’s involvement increasing awareness for key initiatives, such as the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. The collaboration also draws attention to significant segments within the company, including Whelen Aerospace Technologies, reflecting their mission to protect those who serve and safeguard others.
Whelen’s Pledge to Safety and Motorsport Innovation
Whelen Engineering has established itself as a leader in producing high-quality safety products—including warning lights, sirens, controllers, and advanced software. All equipment is designed and meticulously manufactured in America, ensuring reliability and peak performance under every condition. This dedication reinforces their promise to both first responders and the motorsports community.
RCR President Mike Verlander acknowledged this synergy, stating,
“Whelen’s unwavering commitment to motorsports and their focus on providing unsurpassed safety solutions to the communities they serve makes them a leader in their industry and everyone at RCR is proud to continue our partnership,”
and praised Jesse Love, saying,
“Jesse is a talented young racer that aligns with Whelen’s core mission and values. He has been a great ambassador for Whelen both on and off the track and we look forward to achieving more together in 2026.”
— Mike Verlander, President of Richard Childress Racing.
Jesse Love’s Impact and Achievements
Jesse Love, recently named the 2024 Xfinity Series Rookie of the Year, has demonstrated consistent excellence while piloting the No. 2 Whelen Chevrolet. The Menlo Park, California, native has earned consecutive playoff berths, making back-to-back appearances in the NASCAR Playoffs. Both of Love’s victories in the Xfinity Series have been behind the wheel of the signature white and red No. 2 Whelen Chevrolet, underscoring the success of the driver, sponsor, and team collaboration.
Heading into Martinsville, Virginia, this weekend for the final race of the Round of Eight, Love holds a 40-point lead above the cutoff, positioning him to advance into the prestigious Final Four and compete in Phoenix for the ultimate championship.
Looking Ahead With High Expectations
Love shared his enthusiasm for the extended partnership:
“I’m proud to continue my relationship with Richard Childress Racing and Whelen Engineering and look forward to building upon our already strong foundation,”
and added,
“Whelen’s strong commitment to motorsports is unmatched. Thank you to Sonny, Geoff, Peter, and everyone at Whelen for their faith in me. My goal is to go out and win races and championships for RCR and Whelen.”
— Jesse Love, Driver.
As Whelen Engineering and Richard Childress Racing reaffirm their commitment with Jesse Love, both organizations signal their determination to push boundaries in motorsport safety, innovation, and performance. With a shared vision for continued leadership and championship aspirations, the Richard Childress Racing partnership remains poised for further achievements in the seasons to come.
