The Corey Heim NASCAR controversy erupted online as Joe Gibbs Racing revealed Brent Crews will join their team for the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, causing uproar among motorsports fans who believe Heim, this year’s Truck Series champion, is being unfairly overlooked. The announcement, made on Monday, November 24, ignited debates across social media over JGR’s development choices and Toyota’s talent pipeline.
Fans React to Joe Gibbs Racing’s 2026 Decision
Joe Gibbs Racing’s choice to sign 17-year-old Brent Crews as a primary driver for their 2026 campaign triggered swift responses, especially from supporters of Corey Heim, a proven Toyota development driver. Many expressed frustration online about Heim being bypassed for an advancement to NASCAR’s second-tier ranks, despite his impressive run in the Truck Series throughout the 2025 season. This reaction was evident as discontented sentiments dominated fan platforms immediately following the announcement.
The source of the uproar is rooted in Heim’s significant achievements: at 23, he has accumulated 12 wins, 19 top-five finishes, and 21 top-tens, with an average finish of just over fifth place, placing him among the top-performing drivers in his series. Despite these accomplishments, Heim remains without a confirmed ride for the 2026 season, intensifying the perception among fans that his achievements are being ignored.
The fanbase did not hold back in their disappointment. One supporter lamented,
“The screwing of Corey Heim continues.”
— fan
Echoing the sentiment, another argued,
“True, they should move Heim up too with Brent, cuz Brent does deserve this opportunity”
— fan
The frustration was even more palpable with another fan’s comment:
“Corey Heim won a million NASCAR truck races but fuck him I guess”
— fan
Further stirring the discussion, a fan remarked,
“you guys couldnt sign corey heim? the clearly better prospect and deserves it more? yeah this is why you guys should already rebrand to ty gibbs racing”
— fan
The reaction continued with sharp criticism, “But not Heim, lol. Petty” — fan
Brent Crews to Drive for JGR Amid Debate
Brent Crews, a North Carolina native and Toyota development driver, will take over the No. 19 JGR Toyota GR Supra in the 2026 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. According to the team, Crews is set to compete in 29 of the 33 scheduled events, missing the initial four races due to age restrictions; he becomes eligible for the full schedule upon turning 18 on March 30, 2026. His selection highlights JGR’s commitment to nurturing rising talent, although it further amplifies the spotlight on Heim’s absence from their plans.
Brent Crews voiced his excitement and preparation for the high-profile position, stating,
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to be able to race with a winning organization and Toyota. I’ve learned a lot so far with the ARCA program and at the track with the No.19 team. I have a lot to prepare for this season, but I feel confident with all the resources that JGR and Toyota provide to help with an easy transition.”
— Brent Crews, driver
Crews brings an impressive resume, with a decorated junior racing background spanning karting, Trans-Am, and the CARS Tour, along with promising performances in both the ARCA ranks and the Truck Series. His advancement underscores JGR’s long-term perspective on developing the next wave of NASCAR drivers, even as the controversy over Heim’s status simmers.
What Comes Next for Toyota’s Development Drivers?
The passionate reaction to JGR’s pick demonstrates that Toyota’s talent pool is deeper and more competitive than ever. As the Corey Heim NASCAR controversy continues to dominate motorsports conversations, fans are left eager to learn whether Heim will secure a notable seat for 2026 or if the debate surrounding JGR’s selection process will affect how teams evaluate proven talent versus up-and-comers. The situation spotlights the ongoing challenges organizations like Joe Gibbs Racing face in managing both immediate performance needs and the future of their development pipelines, with every decision watched closely by an engaged fanbase.
you guys couldnt sign corey heim? the clearly better prospect and deserves it more? yeah this is why you guys should already rebrand to ty gibbs racing.
— Toadstool (@Gl1tcchhh) November 24, 2025
But not Heim, lol. Petty.
— Austin (@Austy2317) November 24, 2025
