Rodney Childers has publicly welcomed the news that Kampgrounds of America (KOA) will be a sponsor for Connor Zilisch in the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season, marking a significant development in Connor Zilisch NASCAR sponsor news. The upcoming sponsorship places KOA as the main backer for the No.1 JR Motorsports (JRM) entry for one race while also establishing KOA as a supporting sponsor for multiple JRM cars throughout the 2026 season.
KOA Returns as a Major NASCAR Sponsor
KOA, recognized for over sixty years as a leading name in outdoor hospitality, makes its return to NASCAR with a bold black and yellow paint scheme on the No.1 Chevrolet. The company, which operates more than 500 campgrounds across the globe, has chosen to back up-and-comer Connor Zilisch in his rookie Cup campaign. Zilisch, aged 19, is stepping into the Cup Series scene not only as a fresh face but also sharing his driving responsibilities with Carson Kvapil in the same entry, adding depth to the JRM lineup.
According to the sponsorship deal, KOA will be the title sponsor for a headline race while supporting as an associate sponsor across the JRM team stable over the year. For Zilisch, this opportunity comes after a standout season in the Xfinity Series, where he notched ten victories and twenty Top-5 finishes, ultimately finishing a close second in the championship to Jesse Love by just six points. In the Cup Series, Zilisch is slated to don the #88 with Trackhouse Racing, signaling a new chapter for the young driver.
Rodney Childers’ Enthusiasm for KOA and the Future
Rodney Childers, a seasoned and championship-winning crew chief, expressed his anticipation for the partnership and the team’s prospects on social media, writing,
“So excited to have @KOAKampgrounds with us on the 1 Team in 2026!! @ConnorZilisch 👊🏼👊🏼”
– Rodney Childers, Crew Chief
Childers’ support is significant, as he is set to oversee the No.1 car’s pit strategy, bringing seasoned expertise to the team. His role is seen as crucial for guiding both Connor Zilisch and Carson Kvapil as they take on new challenges in the Cup Series and aim to make an impact for JRM and KOA alike.
Childers Reflects on His Career and Change of Direction
In a candid discussion with NASCAR journalist Matt Weaver, Rodney Childers recounted his journey leading up to his new role at JR Motorsports. Following a mid-season departure from Spire Motorsports in 2025, Childers explored new opportunities, including a stint with Kevin Harvick’s stock car operation in the CARS Tour Series. Eventually, he joined JRM, eager to return to top-level competition.
“I had to put some deep thought into, you know, whether to go Xfinity racing,” he said, “You know, whether to give it a few more months and see if something happened on the cup side. You know, I mean, yeah, deep down inside it hurts not to cup race, but, you know, the right person called, you know, Dale’s meant a lot to me. Him and Kelly both, Mr. H, you know, being part of that deal, all those three have meant a lot to me my whole life. And, you know, it was one of those opportunities that I felt like would be a lot of fun.” [1:46 onwards]
– Rodney Childers, Crew Chief
Childers’ comments highlighted the personal significance of joining JRM, notably crediting Dale Earnhardt Jr., Kelley Earnhardt Miller, and Rick Hendrick for shaping his path. His experience and passion were driving factors in accepting the new role, despite having to weigh the emotional impact of leaving the Cup Series momentarily.
Looking Ahead: JRM’s Return to Daytona and Team Aspirations
JR Motorsports continues to make headlines with its expanded presence. The organization is preparing for its second consecutive Daytona 500 appearance, with Justin Allgaier returning in the No.40 entry and music star Chris Stapleton’s Traveller Whiskey resuming its primary sponsorship. Their 2025 Daytona effort resulted in a notable top-10 finish after starting in 19th position, reflecting a resurgence for the JRM squad.
With the announced KOA sponsorship and enthusiastic voices like Childers in leadership, 2026 promises to be a transformative year for JR Motorsports, KOA, and emerging talents like Connor Zilisch and Carson Kvapil. The competitive spirit and history of both the team and sponsors point toward more prominent moments ahead in the NASCAR Cup landscape.
So excited to have @KOAKampgrounds with us on the 1 Team in 2026!! @ConnorZilisch 👊🏼👊🏼 https://t.co/EqghPHQCrG
— Rodney Childers (@RodneyChilders4) November 19, 2025
