Joe Gibbs Racing has officially announced its highly anticipated 2026 lineup for the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, featuring Taylor Gray and William Sawalich returning for their second seasons. The Joe Gibbs Racing 2026 lineup showcases a mix of young talent and experienced drivers, aiming to build on recent successes when the season kicks off.
Taylor Gray and William Sawalich Set for Second Seasons
Taylor Gray, who claimed a dramatic win at Martinsville Speedway in 2025, will remain behind the wheel of the No. 54 Toyota. Experienced crew chief Jason Ratcliff, a championship veteran, is also staying with the team for his 19th year in a leading role according to official confirmation. William Sawalich will continue his journey in the No. 18 car, looking to gain consistency after a challenging rookie campaign. At just 19, Sawalich captured the pole at Nashville Superspeedway and achieved three top-five results, including finishing second back-to-back at Portland International Raceway and World Wide Technology Raceway at Gateway before missing the season’s final races due to a crash at Talladega Superspeedway.
Brandon Jones and Brent Crews Round Out the 2026 Squad
Alongside Gray and Sawalich, Brandon Jones enters his second consecutive season with Joe Gibbs Racing, deepening the lineup’s experience. Rising Toyota prospect Brent Crews will also join the roster, set to drive in 29 events throughout 2026. Crews is scheduled to make his first series appearance in the third race at Circuit of The Americas, as NASCAR’s new rules now permit 17-year-old competitors on certain tracks. After Crews’ 18th birthday on March 30, he will take the No. 19 car full-time, continuing the team’s legacy of developing emerging drivers.
Team Performance and Future Goals
The previous season saw Taylor Gray finish seventh in the drivers’ standings, marking a strong performance for the team. Aric Almirola delivered three victories and secured an owner’s championship for the No. 19 team at Phoenix Raceway. William Sawalich wrapped up 2025 in 18th place, despite participating in 14 more races than Almirola, highlighting the learning curve young drivers face at the professional level.
As the 2026 season approaches, Joe Gibbs Racing is relying on this dynamic roster of drivers and experienced support to remain a competitive force within the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. Their combination of returning talent, promising newcomers like Brent Crews, and veteran leadership points to another year of determined competition and potential breakthrough moments for the team.
