The Haas Factory Team NASCAR program is preparing for a significant shift in the 2026 Cup Series as the organization makes a strategic move to Chevrolet power and form a technical alliance with Hendrick Motorsports. This change, announced as the team enters its second season in the Cup Series, is designed to strengthen the Gene Haas-owned outfit’s competitive standing for drivers like Cole Custer, Sam Mayer, and Sheldon Creed.
Strategic Realignment: Transition to Chevrolet and Hendrick Partnership
For 2026, Haas Factory Team NASCAR will campaign Chevrolet machinery, powered by renowned engines from Hendrick Motorsports. This marks a departure from their long-standing association with Ford, which began in 2017 during their Stewart-Haas Racing roots. The approach is expected to elevate the team’s performance, drawing on Hendrick’s expertise and resources. Gene Haas, the team operator, aims to leverage this partnership to drive success for Cole Custer’s No. 41 entry, as well as the two O’Reilly Auto Parts Series cars piloted by Sam Mayer and Sheldon Creed.
Cole Custer’s Fresh Start in the No. 41 Chevrolet
California native Cole Custer returns to the NASCAR Cup Series as the lead driver for Haas Factory Team, paired with crew chief Aaron Kramer. Custer enters 2026 off the back of four full-time Cup seasons and 153 starts, most recently finishing 32nd in the 2025 championship standings. While he did not secure a win last season, Custer showed flashes of competitiveness, especially at superspeedway venues like Daytona and Talladega, nearly clinching late-race victories there.
After claiming the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series championship in 2023, Custer’s progress has seen ups and downs, but the team believes that the shift to Chevrolet brings fresh opportunity. A period of adjustment is expected as the squad adapts to its new manufacturer and technical alignment, but Custer is determined to return to Victory Lane for the first time since his rookie triumph at Kentucky in 2020. The driver’s ambitions are particularly focused on early-season drafting tracks, with optimism that he can emerge as a contender as the season unfolds.
Looking Ahead: Expectations and Impact for the 2026 Season
With Gene Haas steering the enterprise into this new chapter, the enhanced technical partnership with Hendrick Motorsports and switch to Chevrolet have raised expectations within the organization. The team is aiming for improved results not just for Custer, but also for O’Reilly Auto Parts Series drivers Sam Mayer and Sheldon Creed. As Haas Factory Team embarks on its sophomore Cup campaign, the coming season is set to be a pivotal one for their progression in NASCAR’s top tier, with fans and competitors alike watching closely to see how the changes play out on the track.
