Kyle Busch, a renowned two-time Cup Series champion, is preparing for a major shift as his new crew chief joins Richard Childress Racing for the 2026 season. As Kyle Busch’s winless streak extends beyond 80 races and recent performances have lagged, the arrival of Jim Pohlman, a proven winner in the O’Reilly Series, is generating optimism around Busch’s next chapter and highlights the significance of a fresh team dynamic.
A Struggling Season Leads to Change
The last two years have challenged Kyle Busch, who finished 20th in the 2024 driver standings and 21st in 2025, with no race wins in sight. The difficulties prompted a pivotal move for Richard Childress Racing after the departure of Randall Burnett from the No. 8 team. Jim Pohlman, formerly crew chief at JR Motorsports and winner of the 2024 Xfinity Series championship alongside Justin Allgaier, was selected as the new leader for Busch’s operations. This transition brings hope for stronger results and a possible end to Busch’s prolonged winless run.
Pohlman’s Enthusiasm for Joining Busch
Jim Pohlman has not concealed his passion about the opportunity to work with Kyle Busch, repeatedly expressing his eagerness since the official announcement. In a conversation with RACER, Pohlman reflected on their similarities, noting,
“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.”
— Jim Pohlman, Crew Chief.
For both men, the clear objective is to win. This shared commitment is seen as critical for forging a partnership capable of returning Busch to winning ways. Pohlman, who previously established wide respect and historic chemistry with Justin Allgaier, now steps into a significant gamble by leaving his winning partnership to assist another celebrated driver. The risk, according to those close to the sport, could pay off with substantial rewards.
Making the Leap: Why Pohlman Chose RCR
Deciding to accept the crew chief position for a motorsport champion like Busch was straightforward for Pohlman. However, it meant a challenging farewell to Justin Allgaier, the driver with whom he had built a record-setting relationship. When Pohlman discussed his career dilemma with Allgaier, the advice he received proved pivotal. Allgaier said,
“It’s a double-edged sword for me. I am sad to see him go because he has meant the world to me – and still will. His dream has been to be a full-time Cup Series crew chief, to have a shot at going for a championship.”
— Justin Allgaier, Driver.
Allgaier further acknowledged that he could not ask Pohlman to sideline his personal aspirations for the sake of their partnership. The bond they shared has set a high standard within NASCAR, and the team now hopes that Busch and Pohlman can develop a similarly powerful alliance as they enter the 2026 season together.
The Road Ahead for Busch and Pohlman
Kyle Busch’s new crew chief, Jim Pohlman, brings extensive experience and championship pedigree to Richard Childress Racing. As the 2026 season approaches, anticipation focuses on how this new combination will reshape Busch’s performance and potentially set the stage for a resurgence. Given both men’s passion and history of success, this partnership could prove transformative, potentially leading to wins and renewed momentum in NASCAR’s fiercely competitive Cup Series.
