Carson Kvapil has secured a full-time ride with JR Motorsports beginning in 2026, following his standout performance during his playoff run. This Carson Kvapil JR Motorsports promotion comes after his NASCAR Xfinity Series debut at Martinsville Speedway earlier this year, positioning him among the favorites for the upcoming championship.
Impressive Playoff Run Fuels Full-Time Opportunity
Although he remained winless, Kvapil’s consistent performance as a two-time CARS Late Model Stock Tour champion enabled him to progress through each playoff round. Currently sitting second in the championship standings, he is strongly considered a leading contender to claim the 2025 title.
Looking back on his journey, Kvapil explained his path to a full-time schedule:
“I feel like definitely the performance was one of the big things that got us to this point. Obviously, midway through the season, we hadn’t won and were ninth in points…it wasn’t too spectacular, right? We kind of lost some funding there.”
– Carson Kvapil, Driver
“I think if we finish eighth or ninth on points, I don’t really think people step up to help (us) make full-time next year. I would definitely say that performance and then a good playoff run and all that stuff really attributed to it.”
– Carson Kvapil, Driver
This opportunity also highlights JR Motorsports’ confidence in Kvapil’s abilities as he joins teammates Connor Zilisch and Justin Allgaier in their mission to deliver a championship. The main competition comes from Jesse Love of Richard Childress Racing, who remains a top challenger this year.
The championship is slated for Friday, October 31, as drivers will contest a 200-lap event broadcast live on CW, with radio coverage available via MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.
Partnership with Veteran Crew Chief in 2026
Kvapil’s first full season in 2026 will be alongside Rodney Childers, a renowned crew chief who guided Kevin Harvick to the 2014 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series title. Initially planning to share the car with Connor Zilisch, Kvapil’s recent form cemented his place as the primary driver.
Rodney Childers shared his thoughts after the announcement was made public by Dale Earnhardt Jr., praising Kvapil’s readiness for a full-season campaign:
“Super excited for Carson Kvapil .. He deserves it, and I’m a firm believer that you can’t be your best if you’re not doing it every week. It also gives the 1 team a chance to race for a drivers and owners championship.”
– Rodney Childers, Crew Chief
Kvapil now focuses his efforts on capturing his first Xfinity Series championship, set to compete again on Saturday, November 1, with coverage airing on CW and radio updates on MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio.
Looking Ahead: Championship Ambitions and Team Goals
The move to a full-time schedule marks a major development for Kvapil, JR Motorsports, and their pursuit of success in the series. With support from notable names like Dale Earnhardt Jr. and the strategic guidance of Rodney Childers, Kvapil is positioned to make a significant impact in the coming seasons. NASCAR fans and observers will be watching closely as this young driver continues to rise, eyeing both a drivers and owners championship for his team.
Carson Kvapil said his strong playoff run contributed to get a deal done where he has a full O'Reilly schedule in 2026. The plans for majority of year for JRM had already been announced but it wasn't until this week that he knew he would get another ride to fill the slate. pic.twitter.com/7TVUYLRJPs
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) October 30, 2025
Super excited for @Carson_Kvapil .. He deserves it, and I’m a firm believer that you can’t be your best if you’re not doing it every week. It also gives the 1 team a chance to race for a drivers and owners championship. 👊🏼 https://t.co/xzMN4YguwK
— Rodney Childers (@RodneyChilders4) October 29, 2025
