Joe Gibbs Racing expansion rumors are gathering momentum after NASCAR’s recent transfer of ownership points, as JGR has laid claim to the coveted No. 11 for the 2026 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series season. While the team has yet to announce official plans, this move is fueling speculation about a possible fifth car joining an already formidable Joe Gibbs Racing lineup.
No. 11 Sparks Anticipation Amid Expansion Buzz
The resurgence of the No. 11 for Joe Gibbs Racing has brought renewed interest within the NASCAR community. This number is not new to the organization; JGR fielded it from 2011 to 2014 with Brian Scott and Elliott Sadler handling driving duties, often in contentious circumstances that left a mark on the series. The return of No. 11, as uncovered in owner points transfers, signals a potential roster shakeup in the OAP Series.
Joseph Srigley, editor at Racing America, shared a screenshot on X highlighting that seven new car numbers, including JGR’s No. 11, will be available in next season’s O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. Since 2016, Kaulig Racing has been associated with the number, but their departure from the series this year has opened the door for JGR’s return to tradition.
Current JGR Drivers Set for 2026
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, Joe Gibbs Racing already has four committed full-time entries in the lineup. William Sawalich is slated for the No. 18, Brent Crews is scheduled to pilot the No. 19 for at least 29 races, Brandon Jones continues in the No. 20, and Taylor Gray will take the wheel of the No. 54.
Historically, JGR has frequently maintained at least one seat for part-time drivers in the OAP Series. This strategy allows Cup Series stars to gain extra experience, provides a platform for young talent, and boosts the team’s pursuit of the owners’ title. Presently, with every main car now assigned to drivers on full or near-full schedules, there is no open seat for part-timers—making the return of the No. 11 especially relevant as a potential solution.
Rule Changes and Opportunity for Growth
NASCAR’s new regulations set for 2026 will allow Cup Series drivers to participate in up to ten O’Reilly Auto Parts Series events annually. This adjustment is particularly likely to benefit teams like Joe Gibbs Racing, who have a deep Cup roster including part-timers such as Aric Almirola. Greater flexibility in race entry will ensure valuable track time and continue developing talent across series lines.
The 2026 season itself promises to be eventful, introducing anticipated races in Chicagoland and on the new San Diego Street Circuit. These schedule changes further raise the appeal of a possible fifth JGR entry, offering the team expanded reach and additional chances for victory in marquee events.
Cautious Optimism Despite Uncertainty
However, securing a car number does not guarantee that it will hit the track. Teams often preemptively reserve numbers for strategic reasons, with last year’s example of Big Machine Racing claiming the No. 98 but never fielding it. While the move by JGR to claim No. 11 may be tactical, their history of supporting multiple entries, ample resources, and clear benefits of a part-time car suggest there is substance behind the speculation.
In the evolving landscape of NASCAR and the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, the Joe Gibbs Racing expansion rumors add excitement for fans and observers alike. Should the No. 11 return as an active entry, it could reshape JGR’s dominance and create new opportunities for Cup and developing series drivers, especially as the series adapts to fresh venues and competitive possibilities.
Provided by #NASCAR, here is the complete list of NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series Owner Point Transfers heading into the 2026 season: pic.twitter.com/GSIZ0IXxFx
— Joseph Srigley (@joe_srigley) January 27, 2026
