Christian Eckes will make his highly anticipated return to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series in 2026, as he rejoins McAnally-Hilgemann Racing and is set to drive the No. 91 Chevrolet truck. The Christian Eckes NASCAR Truck return marks a new partnership with crew chief Dave Elenz, backed by sponsorship from Columbia Bank and NAPA, as the team seeks championship glory.
Eckes’ Comeback After Xfinity Experience
Eckes finds his way back to McAnally-Hilgemann Racing (MHR) following a full season competing for Kaulig Racing in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series in 2025. Kaulig’s NOAPS team shuttered at the conclusion of the 2025 season, paving the way for Eckes to reunite with his former team.
“I couldn’t be happier to be back at MHR,”
Christian Eckes said.
“We had a lot of success in 2023-24 and we want to get back to that next year. Bill [McAnally] and I have always had a great relationship and we’re putting a lot of quality people and pieces together. We had two great years here.”
– Christian Eckes, Driver
Strong Past Performances Set the Stage
During his final campaign with MHR, Eckes delivered remarkable stats: 22 top-10 finishes in 23 races, led over 1,000 laps, and secured the regular season championships. Over two years in 2023 and 2024, he achieved eight wins, 25 top-five finishes, and 35 top-10 finishes. Despite these impressive results, a championship still eluded him, adding extra motivation for his return.
Team Owner and New Crew Chief Share Optimism
“We’re excited to have Christian back,”
team owner Bill McAnally remarked.
“He certainly has his fingerprints on our program, and all of us were proud to see him in the Xfinity Series last year, but we have unfinished business.”
– Bill McAnally, Owner
Dave Elenz steps in as crew chief for Eckes. Elenz previously won 15 NOAPS races and steered drivers William Byron and Tyler Reddick to consecutive series championships with JR Motorsports in 2017 and 2018. Afterward, Elenz joined Erik Jones in the NASCAR Cup Series, and together they celebrated victory at the Southern 500 in 2022.
“I’m looking forward to working with Christian and everyone at MHR,”
said Elenz.
“This will be a new challenge, and there’s a lot of optimism for what we can accomplish together. It’ll be great to have a full off-season to prepare so we can show up to Daytona ready to compete for wins.”
– Dave Elenz, Crew Chief
Expanded MHR Effort for 2026
Alongside Eckes’ anticipated return, MHR confirmed that Tyler Ankrum will also continue with the team in 2026. The roster provides the organization with a blend of experience and talent, aiming to position McAnally-Hilgemann Racing among the top contenders in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series once again.
The reunion between Christian Eckes and McAnally-Hilgemann Racing not only reignites a successful driver-team relationship, but with the addition of seasoned crew chief Dave Elenz and key sponsors such as NAPA and Columbia Bank, the team is positioned for a charged comeback. Their sights are set on strong results at marquee events like the Daytona race and on capturing the elusive season championship.
