Corey Heim is set to increase his participation in the NASCAR Cup Series schedule for 2026, with 23XI Racing announcing that their development driver will take on a significantly expanded slate of races next year. Following a strong showing last season, including a championship in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, Heim will return to the No. 67 Toyota Camry XSE with nearly triple his prior Cup Series entries.
23XI Racing Outlines Heim’s Upcoming Campaign
Building on a year of steady involvement in race preparation, analysis, and on-track competition, Heim impressed as both a participant and a key contributor in 23XI Racing’s efforts. Last year, he competed in five Cup Series races while actively assisting the competition team with reviews and insights throughout the season. The 2026 season will see Heim further immersed in Cup Series action as his starts reach close to triple the previous count, reflecting both his growth as a driver and the team’s confidence in his abilities.
23XI Racing continues to approach Heim’s development deliberately, considering everything from competition on different track types to the interests of their partners as they assemble a more robust schedule. The campaign begins with a notable attempt to qualify for the Daytona 500, regarded as one of NASCAR’s marquee events. Heim’s schedule extends from April through July, with the No. 67 team entered in seven events, before culminating with three starts during the NASCAR Playoffs. This stretch will include the season’s close at Homestead-Miami Speedway, a proven battleground for top drivers.
Heim’s 2026 Cup Series Races Revealed
Heim’s expanded NASCAR Cup Series schedule for 2026 covers a dozen high-profile races across various iconic tracks. These are the planned events in which Heim and the No. 67 will compete:
1. Daytona 500 (Feb. 15)
2. Kansas (Apr. 19)
3. Texas (May 3)
4. Charlotte (May 24)
5. Nashville (May 31)
6. San Diego (Jun. 21)
7. Chicagoland (Jul. 5)
8. Indianapolis (Jul. 26)
9. Daytona (Aug. 29)
10. Darlington (Sep. 6)
11. Charlotte (Oct. 11)
12. Homestead-Miami (Nov. 8)
Heim has already shown his ability to win by securing victories in the Truck Series at five of the ten venues he is set to visit on this schedule. When not competing, he will maintain an active presence in the team’s ongoing preparations and post-race analyses, further sharpening his skills as both a driver and a strategist.
Leadership and Continued Growth With 23XI
Experienced crew chief Bootie Barker will return to lead Heim and the No. 67 team, bringing continuity and experienced guidance. The ongoing partnership underscores 23XI Racing’s commitment to building a strong foundation for Heim’s growth within top-level motorsport.
“We know the future is really bright for Corey, and we’re working with him to ensure that he is as prepared as possible when his time comes to race full time,”
said Denny Hamlin, co-owner of 23XI Racing.
“We’re continuing to stick to our plan and taking a long-term approach, while also remaining focused on what is collectively best for our organization and our partners as we look to continue being a competitive, winning organization each weekend.”
– Denny Hamlin, Co-owner, 23XI Racing
“Corey’s development with the team has been impressive and we appreciate his patience and trust in us to prepare him as best as possible,”
said Dave Rogers, 23XI Senior Director, Competition.
“He has not only been a great student but has also provided valuable feedback to our team that has helped us grow. We’re looking forward to more races with him this year as he continues to sharpen his skills.”
– Dave Rogers, Senior Director, Competition, 23XI Racing
“I’m excited and honored to continue my progression with 23XI,”
said Corey Heim.
“Every driver wants to race as much as possible, but I’m fully committed to the approach that I am taking with the team. I look forward to more Cup races this year and the opportunity to grow and expand my race-craft on and off the track.”
– Corey Heim, Driver, 23XI Racing
Additional Racing Plans and What Lies Ahead
Beyond his expanded role in the Cup Series, Heim will participate in select NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series races, continuing his relationship with TRICON Garage. Details on those additional appearances will be announced as the year progresses. Meanwhile, 23XI Racing remains open to more opportunities within the season, seeking avenues for Heim to further build experience and showcase his abilities at the highest level of the sport.
For Heim, the robust NASCAR Cup Series schedule in 2026 represents both validation of his talent and a platform for greater achievement. With the support of 23XI Racing leadership, including Denny Hamlin and Dave Rogers, and crew chief Bootie Barker, Heim’s trajectory within NASCAR looks steadily upward, positioning both the team and the driver for continued success and potential new milestones as the series unfolds.
