The NASCAR team merger 2026 was made official with Sigma Performance Services Racing announcing the full acquisition of AM Racing, as Ford supports this major transition heading into the upcoming season. This move, unveiled as the 2025 campaign concludes and NASCAR’s O’Reilly Auto Parts Series prepares for a significant offseason, stands out as one of the most notable developments before racing resumes at Bowman Gray Stadium in February.
SPS Racing and AM Racing Combine Forces for 2026
As the racing offseason gathers momentum, Sigma Performance Services Racing has made headlines by absorbing AM Racing, reshaping the competitive landscape as teams prepare for a return to the track. This new structure, empowered by Ford Racing, aims to create stronger development channels and enhanced engineering support. The consolidated SPS operation will now field teams in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, ARCA Menards Series, and expand its late model schedule, demonstrating a clear commitment to growing their footprint across NASCAR sanctioned events.
Team owner Joe Farré emphasized the benefits of this collaboration, focusing on goals for increased performance and future stability.
“Bringing AM Racing into the SPS Racing family is about building on momentum and unlocking our next level potential,” Farré said in the joint statement. “With Ford Racing behind us, we’re investing in people, data and performance to set us up to contend right away in 2026. We’re excited for what’s ahead.”
Wade Moore, president of AM Racing, reiterated that both organizations share similar values and a vision for empowering drivers.
“AM Racing has always been about work ethic, integrity and giving racers a real shot to grow— and SPS Racing shares that DNA,” president Wade Moore said. “This transition ensures our mission continues— with renewed strength, expanded resources and a clear drive to win.”
The release stated that details about drivers, car numbers, and new team personnel will be revealed as the combined operation kicks off in early January, just ahead of the ARCA practice session at Daytona. The leadership has stated a clear focus on building a foundation for long-term strength, while also aiming for a quick rise in the competitive ranks.
Key Driver Updates and Personnel Shifts
Harrison Burton piloted the No. 25 Ford and managed to reach the playoffs, closing out the season last among qualifiers with a total of 2163 points. Meanwhile, Kole Raz gained some experience with two starts in the No. 76 car. With the upcoming changes, Burton will shift away from the merged organization, as Sam Hunt Racing confirmed him as their new full-time driver for the No. 24 Toyota GR Supra from the 2026 season onward. Updates regarding the rest of the driver roster for SPS and AM Racing will be shared as preparations for Daytona intensify.
Transformation of NASCAR’s O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Teams
The Sigma-AM Racing deal is only one part of a comprehensive reorganization impacting the broader O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. Following the conclusion of the 2025 season, teams have raced to announce pivotal changes in their lineups, manufacturer partnerships, and technical affiliations, setting the stage for a dynamic 2026 campaign.
Viking Motorsports is entering a new technical alliance with Richard Childress Racing, which will grant access to renowned RCR engineering expertise and support. Similarly, Young’s Motorsports will grow, adding a second full-time entry and slotting Ryan Ellis into the No. 02 Chevrolet. Jordan Anderson Racing is also expanding, fielding three full-time Chevrolet entries while keeping its current core drivers, including Jeb Burton, for another season.
Other noteworthy adjustments involve RSS Racing, which is returning to Chevrolet after a run with Ford, continuing its longstanding relationship with the Sieg family and maintaining an alliance with Haas Factory Team. Among the more dramatic manufacturer developments is the Haas Factory Team’s move from Ford to Chevrolet, forging new engine and technical ties with Hendrick Motorsports. Meanwhile, Kaulig Racing is ending its participation in the O’Reilly Series and will instead focus on launching a five-truck operation with Ram.
What This Means for NASCAR’s Competitive Landscape
With significant organizational changes like the NASCAR team merger 2026 setting the tone, the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series approaches the next season transformed by new alliances, shifted driver rosters, and a wide range of manufacturer moves. The collaboration between Sigma Performance Services Racing and AM Racing, supported by Ford and leadership like Joe Farré and Wade Moore, highlights just how actively teams are seeking new advantages and a path to lasting competitiveness. As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on announcements out of Daytona and the continued impact these structural decisions will have on the race for dominance when the green flag drops again next February.
Sigma Performance Services Racing Acquires AM Racing,
Expands National Footprint with Ford Racing Support. ➡️For the full story https://t.co/rO5tgiZ0mz pic.twitter.com/5rsJdJj2vl— Sigma Performance Services (@sps23racing) November 24, 2025
