Harrison Burton will have major support from Dead On Tools for his full-time NASCAR Xfinity Series campaign with Sam Hunt Racing in 2026, as the company becomes the primary sponsor of the No. 24 GR Supra for a dozen races. This partnership signals significant momentum for both Burton and Sam Hunt Racing, who are preparing to field two full-time entries for the coming O’Reilly Auto Parts Series season.
Dead On Tools commits to Burton and Sam Hunt Racing
The announcement of Dead On Tools as a primary sponsor marks a meaningful development for Harrison Burton and the team, highlighting a long-standing relationship between the brand and Burton that dates back to 2020. Dead On Tools’ decision to expand its presence with the No. 24 entry reflects confidence in SHR’s vision and commitment to long-term stability for both cars, aiding the team as it evolves in the competitive NASCAR landscape.
Team owner Sam Hunt highlighted the alignment of the two organizations:
“I am beyond proud to have Dead On Tools join the Sam Hunt Racing in 2026,” Hunt said in a team statement. “I knew there was a ton of symmetry with what our respective teams are trying to accomplish… They do things the right way and work extremely hard to put out their fantastic line of products.”
Dead On Tools’ involvement means its branding will be featured at prominent venues like Daytona, Martinsville, Bristol, Charlotte, Sonoma, Atlanta, Indianapolis, Darlington, World Wide Technology Raceway, Las Vegas, Talladega, and Homestead–Miami. More partners for Burton’s entry are expected to be announced ahead of the season.
Joseph Ardell, marketing manager for Dead On Tools, shared his enthusiasm about extending the relationship:
“Everyone at Dead On Tools is thrilled to be able to continue to grow our partnership with Harrison. To be with a team like Sam Hunt Racing, we know the #24 will be in great hands and are excited for a terrific 2026 season.”
Sam Hunt Racing’s growth: Burton joins Thompson in expanded lineup
Sam Hunt Racing’s plans for 2026 involve a new level of commitment, with Harrison Burton’s signing completing the organization’s first full-time, two-car effort. Dean Thompson returns to the No. 26 GR Supra after finishing a solid rookie year in 16th place, earning 690 points in the 2025 Xfinity Series. Thompson has shown particular strength on intermediate and superspeedway tracks and will continue with familiar sponsors like Thompson Pipe Group and MCM Transportation next year.
The No. 24 was previously run as a part-time entry in 2025, where seven drivers, including Patrick Staropoli, split driving duties. Converting it to a full-time ride with Burton shows SHR’s intent to elevate its competitiveness and consistency in the series.
After the sponsorship news, Harrison Burton expressed his excitement for the ongoing partnership via social media:
“Couldn’t be more excited to continue working with @deadontools we have a great friendship and partnership that I cant wait to build on! #MadeToLiveOutLoud”
Burton’s arrival provides greater depth to Sam Hunt Racing, bringing with him a proven track record in the Xfinity Series as a four-time winner and recent Cup Series playoff qualifier. His combination of experience and determination sets a new performance standard for the team as it seeks its first series win.
Implications for the 2026 NASCAR Xfinity Series season
With the rebranded O’Reilly Auto Parts Series starting in less than two months, Sam Hunt Racing is well positioned for the new season. Establishing a stable foundation of sponsorship with Dead On Tools for Harrison Burton and securing both full-time drivers early, SHR could see competitive gains and new attention within the Harrison Burton NASCAR Xfinity Series community.
The strengthening partnership between Burton, Dead On Tools, and Sam Hunt Racing may prove pivotal as the team targets its first victory and seeks to establish itself among the front-runners on the NASCAR Xfinity grid. As further sponsor announcements and pre-season preparations unfold, SHR’s two-car operation stands ready to make an impact when the season begins.
Couldn’t be more excited to continue working with @deadontools we have a great friendship and partnership that I cant wait to build on! #MadeToLiveOutLoud https://t.co/NLJEpvmQsD
— Harrison Burton (@HBurtonRacing) December 15, 2025
