Ross Chastain’s remarkable record of NASCAR achievements has inspired a moving tribute from his team, Trackhouse Racing, as he prepares to continue driving the No. 1 Chevrolet into the 2026 season. Overcoming significant obstacles throughout his career, Chastain has consistently demonstrated resilience, making him a celebrated figure in the NASCAR community and a central focus for his team’s aspirations.
Endurance and Determination Amid Setbacks
Chastain’s 2025 season was filled with highs and lows, most notably when he was eliminated from the playoffs during the Charlotte Roval event due to a speeding infraction and an error in Turn 7. Despite this disappointment, Team Principal Justin Marks provided motivation in the aftermath.
“Tomorrow’s a new day. We’ve got to go prepare…keep the big picture as clear as possible.”
– Justin Marks, Trackhouse Racing. These words underscored Chastain’s ability to recover from setbacks and remain focused on long-term goals.
Trackhouse Racing views Chastain as a cornerstone of the team, appreciating his tireless work ethic and competitive spirit. Even after falling short in the playoffs, his efforts throughout the season did not go unnoticed. The leadership at Trackhouse Racing continues to demonstrate faith in Chastain’s capabilities and places significant hope in his future performances.
Recognizing Ross Chastain’s Contributions to Trackhouse Racing
Ross Chastain’s impact was recently honored through a heartfelt message shared in an Instagram reel by TeamTrackhouse. In the video, Chastain reads a note written by Justin Marks, celebrating the major milestones Chastain has achieved while racing in the iconic No. 1 car.
“You delivered the first win in Trackhouse history and the first driver to win the Coke 600 from the rear in a backup car. And of course, the first to pull off that wall ride in Martinsville. Of all the firsts you’ve brought to this company, there’s no better number to stay on the side of your car next year than the No. 1.”
– Justin Marks, Trackhouse Racing.
With six victories to his name driving the No. 1 Chevrolet, including a recent win at the 2025 Coca-Cola 600, Chastain has established himself among the sport’s elite. He regularly acknowledges the legacy of previous greats to drive the No. 1 car, such as Billy Wade, Donnie Allison, and Jamie McMurray. Allison, for example, achieved four wins over 61 starts between 1976 and 1982, while Wade secured consecutive victories in 1964. Marks added,
“Dear Ross, you brought nothing but honor to the No. 1 car and joined a line of greats who’ve driven it.”
– Justin Marks, Trackhouse Racing. This recognition cements Chastain’s place in NASCAR history and pays homage to those who paved the way before him.
Notable Moments and NASCAR Achievements
During his Cup Series career, Chastain has qualified for the playoffs three times. His closest brush with a championship title came in 2022, when he finished as runner-up in the final standings. That campaign produced the memorable ‘Hail Melon’ wall ride maneuver at Martinsville, a daring move that secured his spot in the Championship 4. Most recently, Chastain nearly reached the Round of 8 in the 2025 playoffs before being edged out by Joey Logano. Looking ahead, the team’s optimism remains strong, as reflected in Marks’ call to action:
“Now let’s go and make another first, and bring home that first championship. Let’s go, No. 1. Always, and forever.”
– Justin Marks, Trackhouse Racing.
These career highlights, combined with Chastain’s knack for overcoming adversity, have made him a role model for many aspiring drivers and a fan favorite among sports enthusiasts. His ongoing dedication to Trackhouse Racing reflects the strong partnership between driver and organization, fueling ongoing hopes for a future NASCAR championship.
Emerging Talent on the Trackhouse Racing Roster
While Ross Chastain remains the face of the No. 1 Chevrolet, Trackhouse Racing’s excitement extends to new talent. Justin Marks has also voiced enthusiasm about Connor Zilisch, a rookie in the Xfinity Series who captured ten wins in 2025 and will soon pilot the No. 99 Chevrolet for Trackhouse Racing.
“The talent that is on its way up is as good as it’s ever been, and he’s just a true outlier. The way he’s been able to attack his rookie season, win at tracks he’s never been to before, but it’s also the stuff you can’t really see on TV. It’s his attitude, it’s his intelligence, how he approaches it and all that.”
– Justin Marks, Trackhouse Racing.
This endorsement highlights Trackhouse Racing’s commitment to nurturing upcoming drivers and broadening their competitive lineup. Zilisch stands out not only for his racing acumen but also for his approach, both on and off the track, underlining the promise that fresh talent brings to the organization’s future.
A Historic Number Returns to NASCAR’s Main Stage
Trackhouse Racing is also preparing for a major change, as Shane van Gisbergen is set to drive the No. 97 Chevrolet in the 2026 season. The number 97, made famous by 2004 champion Kurt Busch, has rarely appeared in the Cup Series main events since 2005, with only a few other drivers such as Jeff Fuller, Kevin Conway, Timmy Hill, Bill Elliott, Tanner Berryhill, and David Starr taking the wheel.
With a storied past that includes victories by Bill Amick at Capitol Speedway in 1957 and Parnelli Jones at California State Fairgrounds and Ascot Stadium in the late 1950s, the No. 97 car has seen a mixture of triumph and long winless streaks. SVG brings fresh momentum to the number, coming off five consecutive road course victories in 2025 and entering with the expectation of shaking up its history in NASCAR. Given his impressive success in Australian Supercars—winning 80 races and three championships using the No. 97—SVG’s move to Trackhouse Racing is being closely watched.
Anticipation for the 2026 NASCAR Season
With a blend of proven experience and upcoming prospects, Trackhouse Racing is poised for a significant campaign in the 2026 NASCAR season. Ross Chastain’s established NASCAR achievements continue to inspire fans and teammates alike, while Connor Zilisch and Shane van Gisbergen represent a new chapter in the team’s pursuit of excellence. The unwavering support from Justin Marks signals a shared ambition to capture the organization’s first championship and to deepen their impact on the sport.
As the next season approaches, the NASCAR community will be watching to see how Chastain builds on his legacy, how new talent like Zilisch adapts to the Cup Series, and whether SVG can extend his winning ways to one of the series’ most historic car numbers. With optimism running high and passion driving every lap, Trackhouse Racing looks set to remain at the forefront of American motorsport.
