Big Machine Racing has announced that Dr. Patrick Staropoli, a recognized retina specialist and longtime driver, will join the team full-time for the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. This move will see Staropoli pilot the No. 48 SYFOVRE Chevrolet beginning with the season kickoff at Daytona International Speedway on February 14, as the team aims to usher in a new chapter following recent changes.
From Medicine to Motorsports: A Unique Racing Journey
Dr. Patrick Staropoli, hailing from Plantation, Florida, brings an unusual combination of expertise to the track as both a qualified medical professional and a seasoned competitor. He made his first significant mark in the sport after winning the 2013 PEAK Stock Car Dream Challenge, which led to his position as a Michael Waltrip Racing development driver. That opportunity placed him alongside competitors like NASCAR Cup Series winner Chase Briscoe and helped cement his status as a driver to watch.
In 2014, Staropoli continued his rise by joining Bill McAnally Racing in the ARCA Menards Series West, where he claimed victory at Irwindale Speedway. His initial full-time national campaign, however, was put on hold for nearly a decade as he pursued his medical career specializing in retina surgery and care. Still, Staropoli stayed connected to racing and made a noteworthy return to the national ranks in 2025, driving in select events for Sam Hunt Racing in the O’Reilly Series and for Cook Racing Technologies in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. During that year, he recorded two top-20 finishes in both championships, reaffirming his competitive skills despite time away.
Team Leadership Welcomes Staropoli’s Dual Talents
The announcement of Staropoli’s hiring signals a new beginning for Big Machine Racing following the recent departure of Nick Sanchez. Sanchez, who delivered the organization’s second victory at EchoPark Speedway (Atlanta) last summer, was released in what he described as a “strictly business” decision by the team.
Team manager and crew chief Patrick Donahue shared his optimism about Staropoli joining the roster:
“We’re pleased to welcome Dr. Patrick Staropoli to the No. 48 Big Machine Racing team for the 2026 season,”
said Patrick Donahue, Crew Chief and Team Manager.
“He brings a rare blend of professionalism, focus, and drive that will continue to strengthen our organization. This partnership reflects our commitment to surrounding the team with individuals who share our values and vision for building long-term success.”
In his own words, Staropoli expressed the significance of this opportunity:
“From the moment I buckled into a pure stock at Hialeah Speedway in 2023, my life’s goal has been to compete at the top levels of this sport,”
said Staropoli.
“The path has taken many unexpected turns, but after working every day for 23 years in pursuit of this dream, I now have the opportunity of a lifetime thanks to Scott Borchetta, Patrick Donahue, and Chevrolet. I am ready to do whatever it takes to put this SYFOVRE Chevy up front and raise awareness for Geographic Atrophy secondary to Age-Related Macular Degeneration by combining my passion for motorsports and medicine.”
Looking Ahead to the 2026 NASCAR Season
Staropoli is set to embark on a full 33-race schedule with Big Machine Racing beginning at the Daytona International Speedway season opener. The campaign marks a crucial transition for the team and an important moment for Staropoli as he fulfills his long-held ambition to compete at NASCAR’s higher levels. With live coverage scheduled on The CW, Motor Racing Network, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90, the stage is set for his return to resonate throughout the racing community.
This development not only brings a new driver to the forefront but also highlights Big Machine Racing’s strategy in pursuing talent with a diverse set of strengths. As Dr. Patrick Staropoli brings together his background in medicine and racing, the upcoming season is poised for intrigue and heightened awareness, contributing a fresh narrative to Big Machine Racing NASCAR news and the sport as a whole.
Patrick Staropoli competing full time for Big Machine Racing in 2026 https://t.co/WX48RpHKFM pic.twitter.com/XTgSCj83ff
— Big Machine Racing (@bigmchnracing) December 23, 2025
