Kris Wright is set to compete full-time in the 2026 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, joining McAnally-Hilgemann Racing for a complete campaign. Beginning his first full season, Wright will pilot the No. 81 F.N.B. Corporation Chevrolet Silverado RST, a major move for both the Pittsburgh native and the team, and the Kris Wright NASCAR Trucks 2026 story marks a significant shift in his racing career.
Team Changes Bring New Leadership
For 2026, Wright will work alongside crew chief Darren Fraley, who steps into the leadership role for the No. 81 team. Fraley previously served as the primary engineer on MHR’s No. 19 entry at the start of 2025 and gained short-term experience as crew chief for both Christian Eckes and Wright in a handful of races the previous season. This continuity is expected to boost the No. 81 team’s performance as they aim for a strong debut year together.
Wright’s Early Performance and Growing Confidence
Late in the 2025 season, Wright joined MHR for two events, including an impressive career-best 11th-place finish at Talladega Superspeedway in October. These initial starts helped Wright acclimate to the team and built a foundation for the upcoming full season. Reflecting on the opportunity, Wright expressed his optimism:
“I’m really looking forward to next year and being a part of the MHR program,”
Wright said.
“This is the biggest organization I’ve had the chance to race with, and it’ll be a great opportunity to put the resources to good use. I felt really good about working with Darren [Fraley] in the two races we ran this fall. There’s a lot of familiarity there, so I’m really encouraged that we can have a strong season in 2026.”
– Kris Wright, Driver
McAnally-Hilgemann Racing’s Outlook for 2026
Team owner Bill McAnally welcomed Wright’s addition with enthusiasm, highlighting the team’s experience working together ahead of the official start. McAnally shared his perspective:
“We’re glad we were able to run Kris in a couple of races before the end of the season and to have him on board in 2026,”
Bill McAnally said.
“With Darren [Fraley] leading the No. 81 team, we’re making sure Kris has strong team behind him and motivated to elevate his career in his first full-time season.”
– Bill McAnally, Team Owner
Anticipation Builds for Daytona Season Opener
Kris Wright will embark on his full 25-race campaign starting on Friday, February 13th, at Daytona International Speedway. The opening event in Florida will be broadcast on FOX Sports 1, signaling a fresh chapter for both Wright and the McAnally-Hilgemann Racing team. As the Kris Wright NASCAR Trucks 2026 effort prepares for launch, fans and team members alike are eager to see how this new partnership will unfold during the season.
