Carson Kvapil has confirmed plans to compete as a full-time driver in the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, discussing this development during a recent interview with Dale Earnhardt Jr. Although the specific structure of how Kvapil’s 2026 NASCAR plans will unfold remains uncertain, the announcement has sparked significant conversation in the motorsports community.
Kvapil’s Full-Time Racing Commitment for 2026
In a recent conversation with Dale Earnhardt Jr., Carson Kvapil made it clear that he will be taking on a full-time racing schedule in the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. This confirmation came amidst speculation about his future after JR Motorsports had previously announced a partnership between Kvapil and Connor Zilisch, where the two would share the No. 1 car for the upcoming season, with Rodney Childers as the crew chief.
This initial arrangement had created doubts about whether Kvapil would be able to run a complete season in the newly named series. However, his progression to the Xfinity Series Championship Four as a rookie, and his ongoing battle for both the series championship and Rookie of the Year honors, seems to have shifted the team’s plans. Kvapil said,
“We’re gonna make it happen either, one way or the other.”
—Carson Kvapil, Driver
The announcement also comes as JR Motorsports navigates a period of transition, with Zilisch preparing for full-time Cup Season action and organizational changes underway for the 2026 campaign. Despite not yet securing a race victory, Kvapil’s playoff performance has been impressive, bringing him into contention for major accolades in his rookie year.
Roster Changes and Unresolved Questions at JR Motorsports
With this news, there is continued speculation about how Kvapil’s full-time efforts will merge with JR Motorsports’ multi-car plans. The organization is set to field five cars next year, including the part-time No. 9 entry, making space for multiple drivers and evolving lineups across the season.
The situation remains fluid, as confirmed by Dale Earnhardt Jr., who stated,
“Once we get beyond Phoenix, we’ll have more information about what those remaining races look like.”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., Team Owner
While Kvapil’s official role is secured, details about which cars he may drive, potential team alignments, and possible collaborations with other organizations, such as Team Penske, continue to fuel discussion. There are rumors about Kvapil running with another Chevrolet team or even potentially joining a Ford outfit if talks with Team Penske materialize. These possibilities add layers of intrigue to JR Motorsports’ already dynamic 2026 plans.
Impact of the Playoffs and What Lies Ahead
Kvapil’s run in the Championship Four has shifted perspectives at JR Motorsports and around the series, showing his potential to make a significant splash as a rookie. The upcoming championship race in Phoenix carries weight, as the outcome could influence the ultimate makeup of Kvapil’s 2026 season schedule.
The option for Kvapil to split time between teams or even brands remains open, mirroring teammate Rajah Caruth’s projected path. As Earnhardt and the team await the final results of the season, fans and insiders are watching closely to see what decisions will be made after the checkered flag falls in Phoenix.
2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series: A Season of Change
The 2026 NASCAR Season brings a rebranding to the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and a reshuffling of lineups across top organizations. Not only is Carson Kvapil solidifying his presence with a full-time spot, but other talented drivers like Connor Zilisch and Rajah Caruth are also making moves that signal a period of renewal and fierce competition.
As teams finalize their rosters and the off-season approaches, JR Motorsports stands at the center of much of the conversation. Kvapil’s confirmation as a full-time participant ensures his name will be central to discussions about rookies to watch and young stars in NASCAR’s evolving landscape.
Details about the precise arrangements for the 2026 campaign remain pending, with announcements expected following the Phoenix championship weekend. Fans and analysts will be watching to see how organizations adapt their strategies and how Carson Kvapil 2026 NASCAR plans ultimately take shape as the sport moves into a new era.
A special announcement from @DaleJr and @Carson_Kvapil . pic.twitter.com/FiWlcDQgQ3
— JR Motorsports (@JRMotorsports) October 29, 2025
