Ricky Stenhouse Jr. is set to make his highly anticipated Truck Series debut, joining Niece Motorsports to compete in the 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series opener at Daytona International Speedway on February 13. This Truck Series debut news marks a new chapter in Stenhouse’s career, as he steps into the No. 45 Chevrolet Silverado RST for two key races during the 2026 season, with his second appearance scheduled for EchoPark Speedway on February 21.
Stenhouse Launches New Venture with Niece Motorsports
Niece Motorsports has officially confirmed that Ricky Stenhouse Jr., a well-known figure in NASCAR’s national ranks since 2009 and currently a full-time Cup Series driver, will make his very first start in the Truck Series at Daytona. Stenhouse brings significant superspeedway experience to his new assignment, guided by crew chief Phil Gould for these pivotal races. Following these two starts, the plan is for other drivers to take over the No. 45 Chevrolet for the remainder of the 2026 season, emphasizing a collaborative approach for Niece Motorsports.
“I’ve always wanted to run a truck, but never had the opportunity to put something together,”
Ricky said in the team release published by NieceMotorsports.com.
“When Cody (Efaw) called me, I definitely had a lot of interest to see what all they have been building here at Niece Motorsports, especially looking at their level of competition.”
– Ricky, Series Driver
Reflecting on his past triumphs at Daytona International Speedway, Stenhouse highlighted that his prior success shaped his decision to join this effort.
“With it being at Daytona, obviously winning the 500 was awesome, and I’d love to win a Truck Series race there, too,”
Stenhouse noted.
“I’ve always wanted to race a truck, but I wanted it to be competitive, and this checks all of those boxes.”
– Ricky, Series Driver
Drawing from a Wealth of Superspeedway Expertise
Entering the Truck Series, Stenhouse brings a proven record from NASCAR’s top level, having secured four victories at notable drafting venues—Daytona and Talladega—and having been recognized as a winner in Atlanta’s earlier configuration. His entry aims to leverage these skills, fueling high expectations among the Niece Motorsports team and its leadership, including CEO Cody Efaw, who has a longstanding connection to Stenhouse from their days at Roush.
“We are all very excited to welcome Ricky Stenhouse Jr. to our team for his first time racing in the Truck Series,”
Cody said in the same NieceMotorsports.com release.
“I’ve known Ricky for several years now, dating back to our time at Roush, and he’s always been a natural on super speedways.”
– Cody Efaw, Niece Motorsports CEO
Efaw also emphasized that the race schedule complements Stenhouse’s strengths behind the wheel.
“I believe he will have a true shot at contending for the win at both Daytona and Atlanta.”
– Cody Efaw, Niece Motorsports CEO
Sponsorship and Team Lineup for the 2026 Schedule
J.F. Electric will serve as the primary sponsor for Stenhouse’s two Truck Series appearances in 2026. The family-run electrical contractor, based in Illinois and operating for over a century, steps onto the big stage alongside Niece Motorsports in this high-profile effort. Greg Fowler, serving as company CEO and Chairman, expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity at Daytona, underlining the significance of Stenhouse’s involvement.
“Josh Morris and I are thrilled to welcome Ricky Stenhouse Jr. to Niece Motorsports for his NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series debut at Daytona. There’s no bigger stage for a debut than Daytona, and we believe Ricky gives our team a real opportunity to contend for the win.”
– Greg Fowler, J.F. Electric CEO and Chairman
After these headline races, plans call for Ross Chastain to take the wheel of the No. 45 Chevrolet Silverado for eight additional events during the season. The 2026 campaign kicks off on Friday, February 13, at Daytona International Speedway, with the anticipated broadcast on FS1 bringing added visibility to Stenhouse’s notable debut.
Ricky Stenhouse Jr.’s addition to the Truck Series not only brings fresh excitement to Niece Motorsports, but also highlights a strategic move by the team as they balance seasoned expertise and new opportunities. With support from figures like Cody Efaw, Phil Gould, and sponsor J.F. Electric, the stage is set for an engaging season start at Daytona and EchoPark Speedway, promising intense competition as the Truck Series welcomes a celebrated Cup winner to its ranks.
