Carson Kvapil has confirmed he will pursue the full NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series championship in 2026, marking a significant step in his career. The Carson Kvapil NASCAR championship 2026 campaign follows news that he was first set for a part-time schedule with JR Motorsports next year.
Kvapil Moves Toward Full Season After Initial Part-Time Plans
Kvapil announced on October 29 through JR Motorsports’ social media channels that his plans now include running every race in the 2026 season. Though specifics such as his car number or whether he will remain with his current team have yet to be revealed, he shared that these details will be announced after the season’s final event.
Originally, Kvapil was scheduled to split driving duties in the No. 1 car—one he has piloted throughout 2025—with Connor Zilisch. This update signals a change in direction as Kvapil will now pursue the series championship on a full-time basis.
Kvapil’s Consistent Performance Earns Him a Chance at the Title
As Kvapil heads to Phoenix Raceway, he is not only set for a full-time drive next season but also remains eligible to win the 2025 championship as one of the Championship 4 contenders. In his first complete season, Kvapil has recorded seven top-five finishes and fourteen top-ten results, underlining his steady performance throughout the year.
What the Full Time Move Means for Kvapil and the Series
This announcement positions Kvapil as a rising figure in the series and puts JR Motorsports in the spotlight as fans wait for more details, including which team and car number he will represent in 2026. With the championship race approaching and Kvapil’s future plans now clear, attention will shift to the season finale and the official updates promised after its conclusion.
“A special announcement from @DaleJr and @Carson_Kvapil . pic.twitter.com/FiWlcDQgQ3”
— JR Motorsports (@JRMotorsports) October 29, 2025
A special announcement from @DaleJr and @Carson_Kvapil . pic.twitter.com/FiWlcDQgQ3
— JR Motorsports (@JRMotorsports) October 29, 2025

