Champion Irrigation Products, Inc., a leader in irrigation technology, has been announced as a key partner of JR Motorsports for the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. Carson Kvapil is set to drive the No. 1 Chevrolet with Champion Irrigation as his primary sponsor in three major races, beginning at Darlington Raceway on March 21, followed by Talladega on April 25, and Phoenix on October 17, with additional branding featured throughout the season.
Strategic Partnership Enhances Visibility for Both Organizations
The collaboration between JR Motorsports and Champion Irrigation marks an important move for both organizations. Champion Irrigation, founded in 1937 on the Pejsa brothers’ pioneering irrigation anti-siphon valve, is recognized for its longstanding commitment to innovation. The company now aims to grow beyond residential irrigation, venturing into commercial, agricultural, and drip irrigation offerings, further expanding its reach and potential impact.
Kelley Earnhardt Miller, CEO of JR Motorsports, expressed enthusiasm regarding this partnership.
“We are thrilled to bring Champion Irrigation to the JR Motorsports family in 2026,”
said Kelley Earnhardt Miller.
“As an existing fixture in motorsports we are excited for the opportunity to help them make the leap into the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and are looking forward to a successful season for Champion Irrigation with Carson and the No. 1 team.”
Shared Values Drive the Alliance
The alignment of values between the two organizations has been a core reason for the partnership. Champion Irrigation appreciates JR Motorsports’ blend of tradition and future-facing innovation, which reflects its own business and cultural values. Jim Kapparos, Chief Marketing Officer at Champion Irrigation, connected their vision directly to JR Motorsports’ approach:
“JRM was an easy choice as a partner to help Champion Irrigation reach its future goals, JRM’s practice of honoring legacy and innovating for the future is a natural fit with Champion Irrigations business and cultural philosophy. JRM’s focus on the Fan and Champion Irrigations focus on the Customer align perfectly and we are excited to reach new heights together”
Jim Kapparos, Chief Marketing Officer.
Anticipation Builds for the 2026 NASCAR Season
The partnership places Carson Kvapil and his team in a strong position as they compete in the 2026 NASCAR season, beginning with their first appearance for Champion Irrigation at Darlington. Fans can tune in to the debut race on March 21 via the CW, MRN, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90, as the No. 1 Champion Irrigation Chevrolet takes its first lap under the new sponsorship. The collaboration promises increased visibility for Champion Irrigation and positions both organizations for continued achievements, setting the stage for growth and innovation on and off the track.
