Joe Gibbs Racing is facing a significant shift as Chris Gabehart, its competition director, has decided to leave the team, creating uncertainty ahead of the 2026 season. The Joe Gibbs Racing leadership change was confirmed during a break in a high-profile antitrust trial, adding another layer to JGR’s ongoing challenges.
Chris Gabehart’s Departure Leaves a Gap in Joe Gibbs Racing
Chris Gabehart’s exit from Joe Gibbs Racing comes after only a single season serving as competition director, following his long stint as crew chief for the No. 11 team with Denny Hamlin. During the 2024 to 2025 transition, Gabehart was first promoted to oversee the competition department, then later was called back to closely help Ty Gibbs and the No. 54 team as crew chief during the season’s end. These back-and-forth responsibilities indicated his value to the organization, especially during crucial times.
The official confirmation of Gabehart’s departure was delivered by Associated Press reporter Jenna Fryer amid courthouse proceedings. Hamlin, who often praised Gabehart’s impact on his NASCAR career, chose not to comment on the move.
“During a break in court, I confirmed Chris Gabehart has left JGR. Denny Hamlin said he had no comment.”
— Jenna Fryer, Associated Press Reporter
This development is seen as a considerable setback for Joe Gibbs Racing, given Gabehart’s pivotal roles over recent years. Racing insiders are closely watching where Gabehart lands next, as his expertise will be a significant acquisition for any organization.
Unanswered Questions Linger Around Joe Gibbs Racing Leadership Change
There is uncertainty about the nature of Gabehart’s departure. It remains unconfirmed whether he left due to a more attractive offer from another team, a personal decision, or a possible unresolved conflict. The high-profile trial has overshadowed the move, blunting immediate public focus. However, when Joe Gibbs Racing returns to Daytona for the next season opener without Gabehart’s strategic guidance, the impact will become distinctly apparent.
Joe Gibbs Racing reportedly worked to retain Gabehart by shifting him from an individual crew chief role to the organizational leadership of competition director. Despite this, at the season’s tail end, he was again fully immersed, micromanaging Ty Gibbs’ team at a critical time. By all visible measures, the split occurred without major surface tension, but the organization’s internal dynamics may be more complex.
Impact on Key Drivers and the Organization’s Prospects
Chris Gabehart’s influence extended beyond the pit box, notably helping Denny Hamlin reinvigorate his NASCAR career. Even after transitioning to a broader management capacity, Gabehart’s methods appeared to pay dividends for the team. The 2025 season saw Hamlin, Christopher Bell, and Chase Briscoe collectively secure 13 victories, a testament to the organization’s strength amid change. Chris Gayle also made a positive impression in his first season as Hamlin’s crew chief, suggesting capable leadership remains within JGR, though the organizational stability will be tested.
Looking ahead, speculation swirls about where Gabehart will take his talents and how Joe Gibbs Racing will regroup after this significant change. The transition period might yield more answers about Gabehart’s future and the inner workings of his departure. For now, questions outnumber answers, and as one of NASCAR’s most influential teams navigates this pivotal moment, the broader racing community is bracing for potential ripples throughout the sport.
During a break in court, I confirmed Chris Gabehart has left JGR. Denny Hamlin said he had no comment.
— Jenna Fryer (@JennaFryer) December 3, 2025
