The Kyle Busch RCR partnership is heading into a new phase, as Busch joins forces with newly appointed crew chief Jim Pohlman at Richard Childress Racing. This collaboration is intended to bring fresh energy to Busch’s campaign, as he and his team strive to end a challenging winless streak and return to Victory Lane.
Pohlman Brings Experience and Passion to Richard Childress Racing
Jim Pohlman starts his tenure at RCR with high expectations, having previously proven his abilities as the crew chief for JR Motorsports’ Justin Allgaier, where the duo achieved top-three finishes over three seasons. With a strong background in developing the Next Gen car at Chip Ganassi Racing, Pohlman later contributed to RCR’s research and development during the car’s debut season and has crew chiefed races for both Austin Dillon and Austin Hill in the Cup Series.
Pohlman’s deep familiarity with modern Cup cars could provide a critical advantage for Busch. As the new lead, he has already emphasized the similarities he shares with Busch, suggesting a driven, competitive environment in the pursuit of wins.
“We’re probably a lot alike. I haven’t seen his analytical chart as to how his personality is, but having done the crew chief role and reading people, I’d say we’re probably identical. There might be some spats, I’m not going to lie. He’s passionate. I’m passionate. The end goal is that he wants to win races, and he wants to win races at RCR, and he was crystal clear about that. I think I’m most excited about having a future Hall of Fame driver,”
he said via Racer.com. – Jim Pohlman, Crew Chief
Kyle Busch Seeks to Turn the Tide on Winless Streak
Kyle Busch, a two-time Cup Series champion and regarded as one of the sport’s elite drivers, faces the longest win drought of his professional career—now extending into a second year. The arrival of Pohlman at RCR comes at a crucial moment, as fresh tactical leadership could help unlock the performance that the Las Vegas native is seeking.
For Busch, the synergy with his new crew chief will be vital. Their combined drive for results and commitment to finding Victory Lane may prove pivotal in overcoming challenges since the Next Gen Era began, with Richard Childress Racing and the broader NASCAR community closely watching how this partnership develops.
Returning to the Snowball Derby with Winning Intent
Outside the Cup Series, Busch is also gearing up for a high-profile return to the Snowball Derby at Five Flags Speedway in Pensacola. This marks his sixth appearance at the Super Late Model Crown Jewel event, with notable support from 2025 Xfinity Series title-winning crew chief Danny Stockman. Busch, who will pilot the No. 51 car for Bryson Lopez Racing, has previously clinched Derby titles in 2008 and 2017, but has not raced at the Florida track for five years.
Kyle Busch addressed his excitement about competing at Pensacola, stating,
“It’s been a few years since I’ve been to Pensacola, but I haven’t forgotten how to get around Five Flags. The Snowball Derby is one of those bucket-list races you always want to win again and again, and I’m fired up to be back with the No. 51 Lucas Oil team and FloRacing. We’re showing up to take that trophy home.”
– Kyle Busch, Driver
The renowned event is scheduled from December 4 to 7, 2025, and will see Busch aim to reclaim the Snowball Derby crown after several years away from this challenging venue. His past performances at Five Flags Speedway highlight his ability on short tracks, fueling anticipation for another strong showing.
What This New Partnership Means for RCR and NASCAR
The renewed Kyle Busch RCR partnership, now strengthened by Jim Pohlman’s leadership, will attract significant interest across NASCAR circles. As RCR adapts to new strategies and harnesses Pohlman’s engineering expertise, the team may rediscover the competitive edge necessary to contend for wins in both the Cup Series and beyond.
Busch’s participation in events like the Snowball Derby not only maintains his competitive sharpness but also amplifies the emotional intensity surrounding his upcoming Cup season. With passionate figures at every level—drivers, crew chiefs, team owners—RCR fans and NASCAR observers will be eager to see if their combined efforts result in a much-needed breakthrough on the track.
