AM Racing signs Nick Sanchez to drive the No. 25 Ford Mustang Dark Horse for the 2026 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, as confirmed in an announcement from their Statesville, North Carolina headquarters. While details like crew arrangements and sponsorship agreements remain forthcoming, the move positions the team with a promising and competitive new driver.
Unexpected Partnership Forms After a Season of Surprises
This decision comes as an unexpected turn, considering both AM Racing and Nick Sanchez seemed set for 2026 with separate plans prior to the conclusion of this year’s O’Reilly Series. The change was triggered by Sanchez’s sudden exit from Big Machine Racing and the cancellation of AM Racing’s proposed sale, resulting in the two joining forces in the wake of unforeseen developments.
Shifts in Manufacturer Teams Impact O’Reilly Series Landscape
For the upcoming season, the O’Reilly Series will see a notable drop in Ford-aligned teams, with Haas Factory Team and Ryan Sieg Racing both switching to Chevrolet for 2026. This leaves AM Racing with few Ford counterparts, increasing the significance of their partnership with a developing talent like Sanchez and perhaps marking a strategic shift within the series’ manufacturer dynamics.
Nick Sanchez’s Recent Successes Boost Team Prospects
Sanchez had an impressive rookie season in 2025, earning one victory, securing seven top-five finishes, and achieving 12 top-ten results across 33 starts, ultimately claiming 11th place in the standings. His averages—11.7 for starts and 17.1 for finishes—demonstrate consistency and promise, making him a substantial asset to AM Racing as they aim to build momentum in the coming year.
AM Racing Publicly Welcomes Sanchez
“New Year ➡️ New Driver! Welcome @Nicksanchez080 pic.twitter.com/Ty5mdYQyUO”
— AM Racing (@AMRacingNASCAR)
What This Means for the 2026 O’Reilly Series
With Sanchez onboard and the landscape of manufacturer alliances shifting around them, AM Racing positions itself for an intriguing 2026 campaign. Their ability to foster results without Ford-aligned teammates could influence not only their future but also the overall dynamics of the O’Reilly Series. Fans and industry watchers will look to see how Sanchez’s skills blend with the team, and how this new alliance navigates a changing competitive field.
New Year ➡️ New Driver! Welcome @Nicksanchez080 pic.twitter.com/Ty5mdYQyUO
— AM Racing (@AMRacingNASCAR) February 9, 2026
