Joe Gibbs Racing has finalized an important transition by selling its manufacturing division to Torque Capital Group, restructuring a key part of its business. This Joe Gibbs Racing sale will propel the enterprise further into the aerospace and defense sectors under new ownership and with a broadened vision for the future.
Torque Capital Group Acquires and Rebrands JGR Manufacturing Division
The transfer of ownership removes Joe Gibbs Manufacturing Solutions from the racing organization’s portfolio, ending its long-standing relationship with the motorsports giant. Torque Capital Group, a New York-based private equity firm, brings a wealth of engineering experience and a focused investment strategy to its acquisitions. The company has rebranded the business as JGA Space & Defense, aligning it with the demands of national security and the space industry.
JGA Space & Defense’s capabilities have evolved well beyond racing parts, now including advanced composites and high-precision parts for rocket propulsion systems. The new owners aim to position the entity as a vital contributor to U.S. aerospace and defense supply lines.
“This investment, expansion and rebranding represent an exciting nw chapter for JGA Space & Defense. As growth-oriented entrepreneurs and operators, we are closely aligned with JGA’s legacy of precision, innovative engineering and excellence, and we are proud to support pivotal roles in the supply chains for both national security and space exploration.”
– Jonathan Saltzman, Managing Partner at Torque Capital Group
Torque Capital’s business model consistently emphasizes expanding facilities, upgrading processes, and diversifying products to serve both federal and commercial markets. They have announced a substantial investment of at least $25 million into the former Joe Gibbs Racing operation, planning to extend the workforce and start production in almost 60,000 new square feet of manufacturing space in Huntersville by early 2026. The company’s new options also allow a possible doubling of its footprint as market demands grow.
Columbia Bank Becomes a Prominent Sponsor for No. 19 Toyota in 2026
While Joe Gibbs Racing has streamlined its manufacturing, its NASCAR team remains robust with four entries in the Cup Series. One of these, the No. 19 car to be driven by 2025 finalist Chase Briscoe, will feature fresh branding next season as Columbia Bank steps in as a major sponsor. The bank has committed to a multi-year agreement, lending its colors and support to three races during the 2026 season.
The No. 19 Toyota Camry will showcase Columbia Bank’s blue-and-white scheme at three high-profile tracks: Circuit of the Americas on March 1, Sonoma Raceway on June 28, and Phoenix Raceway on October 18. The deal, announced by the team, highlights the organization’s continued focus on securing high-caliber commercial partnerships.
“JGR has signed a multi-year agreement with @Columbia_Bank to sponsor @chasebriscoe ‘s No. 19 Toyota Camry in three races in 2026.”
Columbia Bank’s sponsorship runs alongside established partners, with Bass Pro Shops maintaining its role as the main backer for Chase Briscoe. Columbia Bank will also act as Joe Gibbs Racing’s official banking partner, managing the team’s daily financial operations.
Eric Schaffer, who serves as executive vice president and chief commercial officer, commented on the sponsorship:
“We’re excited to partner with Columbia Bank starting in 2026. Their commitment to relationship-based banking aligns perfectly to our approach with our partners.”
Columbia Bank has pointed to Joe Gibbs Racing’s competitive spirit and the upward trajectory of Chase Briscoe, now entering his second year with the organization. The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series is scheduled to begin on February 1 at Bowman Gray Stadium with the Clash, heralding a season of new opportunities for both the team and its sponsors.
What This Means for Joe Gibbs Racing and the Broader Industry
This Joe Gibbs Racing sale marks a pivotal change for one of NASCAR’s most recognized organizations by unlocking opportunity in sectors far beyond motorsports. Under the stewardship of Torque Capital Group and guided by experienced entrepreneurs like Jonathan Saltzman, JGA Space & Defense is positioned to play a crucial part in aerospace and defense projects. At the same time, the NASCAR team continues to attract major commercial partnerships, with companies such as Columbia Bank reinforcing its competitive and commercial clout.
With expanded manufacturing operations on the horizon in Huntersville and key sponsorships lined up for marquee races, Joe Gibbs Racing stands to influence not only the sport but also the landscape of American industry. The impacts of this sale and its associated investments are expected to resonate well beyond the race track in seasons ahead.
🚨 NEWS 🚨
JGR has signed a multi-year agreement with @Columbia_Bank to sponsor @chasebriscoe 's No. 19 Toyota Camry in three races in 2026. The No. 19 will sport the Columbia Bank blue and white at Circuit of the Americas on March 1, Sonoma Raceway on June 28, and Phoenix… pic.twitter.com/7aX7Ji4Esr
— Joe Gibbs Racing (@JoeGibbsRacing) November 20, 2025
