RFK Racing has officially announced its plan to field a fourth car in the upcoming Daytona 500, scheduled for February 15 at Daytona International Speedway, highlighting the organization’s aggressive approach to the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series opener. The No. 99 car, carrying a significant legacy within RFK Racing, will return to the grid with Corey LaJoie behind the wheel, as Trimble steps in as the primary sponsor—bringing renewed energy and focus to the team’s Daytona campaign. This expanded RFK Racing Daytona 500 entry is set to make waves at one of racing’s biggest events, further demonstrating the organization’s competitive ambitions.
A Legacy Number Returns to the Track for a New Challenge
The No. 99 car represents one of RFK Racing’s most successful eras, achieving 40 Cup Series wins over 19 seasons. Jeff Burton drove the No. 99 from 1996 to 2004, earning an impressive 17 victories, while Carl Edwards accumulated 23 more wins for the team between 2004 and 2014. The return of this historically notable number adds layers of anticipation and prestige to RFK Racing’s expanded effort for the Daytona 500, as the team seeks to recapture its winning tradition at the high-profile event.
Corey LaJoie Selected to Lead the New Effort
Corey LaJoie, who has earned trust within the RFK organization, steps into a larger role as the team mounts its bid for Daytona success. Having recently filled in for Brad Keselowski at the Cook Out Clash, LaJoie brings substantial familiarity with the team’s dynamics and strategy, especially in the superspeedway racing environment. His adaptability and experience are expected to provide RFK Racing a critical advantage in the unpredictable landscape of Daytona.
“From a competition standpoint, having a fourth car gives us and Ford Racing a better chance to win the Daytona 500,”
said Keselowski, RFK Racing driver and co-owner.
“It’s not just about adding another entry. Superspeedway racing is about cooperation and having an additional car allows us to be more effective in forming drafting alliances, controlling lanes, and putting ourselves in position when it matters most.”
– Brad Keselowski, RFK Racing driver and co-owner
“This is a dream come true to get an opportunity with RFK Racing at the Daytona 500,”
said LaJoie.
“This is without a doubt, the best car and opportunity I’ve had at Daytona. I’m grateful for the trust they’ve placed in me.”
– Corey LaJoie, RFK Racing driver
Teamwork and Preparation at the Forefront
Chip Bowers, president of RFK Racing, highlighted the importance of unity and readiness as the team prepares for Daytona. The expanded operation is not only a testament to RFK’s confidence in its people but also in its strategic partnerships, such as with Trimble.
“Daytona is the one race where preparation and teamwork are amplified,”
said Bowers.
“Corey’s familiarity with our systems and people, combined with Trimble’s collaboration, allows us to be bold, aggressive and committed. This is a well-planned extension of our overall Daytona strategy.”
– Chip Bowers, President, RFK Racing
Trimble Steps Up as Primary Sponsor
Trimble’s increased role as the primary sponsor for the No. 99 car underlines its commitment to supporting excellence in motorsports. The collaboration between Trimble and RFK Racing points to a unified focus on precision and performance. Trimble, well-known for its advances in technology integration across the sport, will sponsor 11 races this year—an escalation from previous seasons, and a signal of their deepening engagement with both RFK Racing and the broader NASCAR community.
“We are leveling up with RFK Racing by taking center stage at the Daytona 500,”
said Heather Adkins, CMO at Trimble.
“This event represents the pinnacle of performance and precision – values that remain at the crossover of our audiences. We are proud to power this expanded effort and excited to showcase Trimble’s commitment to excellence on the biggest platform in racing.”
– Heather Adkins, CMO, Trimble
Trimble’s involvement not only reflects its ambitions in sponsorship but also supports its ongoing collaboration within the RFK TeK Alliance, where technology partners work closely with the racing team to optimize every aspect of preparation and competition.
Expanded Sponsorship and Strategic Alliances for the 2026 Season
With Chris Buescher, Ryan Preece, and now Brad Keselowski all set to carry the Trimble brand throughout the 2026 season, the company’s investment signals a strengthening relationship with RFK Racing. The multi-year partnership has evolved to position Trimble as a visible and influential presence at key races, including the Daytona 500, further integrating advanced technology into the team’s competitive strategy.
The addition of the fourth RFK Racing Daytona 500 entry exemplifies how strategic collaborations—across drivers, sponsors, and technology—can raise the stakes at NASCAR’s most celebrated race. As fans anticipate the 2026 Cup Series opener, all eyes will be on Corey LaJoie, the storied No. 99, and the collective strength of RFK Racing’s expanded lineup, each aiming to make history at Daytona International Speedway.
