Ross Chastain will bolster his partnership with Niece Motorsports in 2026, joining the team for a greater number of NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series appearances. This Ross Chastain Niece Motorsports return comes as new rules allow him to enter more races, with Chastain aiming to compete in the No. 45 Chevrolet for several events this season and next.
Chastain Sets Sights on More Races with Niece Motorsports
Niece Motorsports confirmed Friday that Ross Chastain will take part in a partial schedule in 2026, with immediate plans to increase his presence in upcoming Truck Series races. As a NASCAR Cup Series regular driving for Trackhouse Racing, Chastain has achieved all five of his Truck Series wins under the Niece banner. Last year, he competed in five Truck events; however, a policy change announced in November now permits Cup Series veterans like Chastain to race in up to eight events within other national series.
While his complete schedule has yet to be determined, Chastain is keen to participate as often as possible given the expanded opportunities.
“It’s great to be back with Niece Motorsports in a larger capacity this year,”
Ross Chastain, Driver, said in the team’s release.
He further emphasized his commitment and enthusiasm about the expanded schedule.
“When I heard about the rule change, I knew we had to run more races together. We’ve got a great core group of people here in Salisbury (N.C.), and I want to bring them all back to Victory Lane. I’m thankful to have the opportunity and appreciate the ownership group and our partners for making it happen, along with everyone at Trackhouse for allowing me to run in the Truck Series.”
– Ross Chastain, Driver
Team Lineup and Leadership Updates
Veteran crew chief Phil Gould is set to lead the No. 45 Chevrolet team throughout the expanded schedule. The driving duties will be shared by Chastain, 19-year-old Landen Lewis — the reigning CARS Tour Late Model Stock champion — and a yet-to-be-named third driver. Niece Motorsports indicated that details about the team’s primary sponsors will be revealed soon.
Outlook for the 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series
The 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series will kick off its season on February 13 at Daytona International Speedway, with the race scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET and broadcast on FS1, NASCAR Racing Network Radio, and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. Chastain’s expanded role and the fresh team lineup position Niece Motorsports for greater energy and possibilities as the new season approaches. Fans will be watching to see how the veteran presence and young talent collaborate for the campaign ahead.
