Halmar Friesen Racing has unveiled significant leadership shifts as part of its Halmar Friesen Racing 2026 changes, announcing new crew chief appointments that will take effect with the start of the 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season. As the team expands to a full-time, two-truck operation, these updates pave the way for renewed focus and increased competitiveness at the Daytona International Speedway and beyond.
New Crew Chiefs Announced for No. 52 and No. 62 Trucks
Dustin Dunn has been promoted to lead the No. 52 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro, partnering with veteran driver Stewart Friesen, while Jimmy Villeneuve will move from his previous role on the No. 52 crew to head up the No. 62 team. This shift coincides with the organization’s broader efforts to build continuity and depth as it grows its presence in the series.
Dunn’s new assignment marks a step forward in his career, reflecting his valued contributions within Halmar Friesen Racing’s technical group. Villeneuve’s transition to the No. 62 is designed to maintain the team’s strong foundation as the organization prepares both teams for a demanding full-time schedule.
“I speak for everyone at HFR when I say how excited we are to see Dustin step into this role,”
Jimmy Villeneuve, Crew Chief, shared.
“Dustin Dunn has been by my side and he has been a huge contributing factor in the success of HFR. I’m very excited to see the great things that Dustin and Stewart will achieve in 2026 and beyond.”
– Jimmy Villeneuve, Crew Chief
Dunn’s Background and Goals for 2026
Dustin Dunn has served as a key race engineer for HFR over the past two seasons, contributing not only to the No. 62’s progress but also providing support to a variety of drivers. His extensive background has included work with Stewart Friesen and essential assistance during periods when Friesen was sidelined with injury.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity that Chris Larsen, Stewart Friesen, and everyone at Halmar Friesen Racing have given me to step into the role of crew chief for the No. 52 truck beginning in 2026,”
said Dunn.
“Over the past two seasons as a race engineer with the organization, I’ve had the chance to work closely with Stewart, support multiple drivers during his injury, and contribute to the No. 62 truck during its part time schedule. Through those experiences, I’ve built strong working relationships, and I look forward to building on that foundation by combining my 30 years of experience as a driver with my engineering background to continue developing a program that shows up prepared and competitive each week. We’ve assembled a strong team for this year, and our goal is not only to be competitive, but to have fun doing it.”
– Dustin Dunn, Crew Chief
Villeneuve Leads No. 62 Team into Full-Time Operation
With Jimmy Villeneuve overseeing the No. 62 group, the team is set for its first full season as part of HFR’s two-truck campaign in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. The No. 62 entry will feature a rotating roster of drivers throughout 2026, opening the year with John Hunter Nemechek at the wheel during the Fresh From Florida 250 at Daytona International Speedway.
Team Chemistry and Prospects for Growth
The internal relationships and recent success have set Halmar Friesen Racing on an ambitious path. Stewart Friesen emphasized the organization’s readiness for the coming season and underlined the communication he has developed with his new crew chief.
“All I can say is we’re ready to go,”
Stewart Friesen, Driver, said.
“Dustin and I have built a great relationship over the past few years, and I’ve been fortunate to work with some excellent crew chiefs throughout my career on both dirt and pavement. Our communication is right there with any of them. Having Dustin in my ear during the race allows Jimmy to focus on the continued development of the No. 62 team, and it’s a big step forward for our entire organization.”
– Stewart Friesen, Driver
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season
Halmar Friesen Racing’s newly solidified leadership will make its official debut at the 2026 season opener, the Fresh From Florida 250 at Daytona International Speedway, set for Friday, February 13, at 7:30 p.m. EST. Fans can follow the action on FS1, SiriusXM, and the NASCAR Racing Network, as the team begins its next chapter with a focus on collaboration, competitiveness, and continued growth.
