Nick Sanchez, who made a strong impression last season, has officially left Big Machine Racing just before the start of the new NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. After securing an important win and several top finishes, Sanchez was unexpectedly dropped by his former team, a move that surprised many including Dale Earnhardt Jr. The announcement of Sanchez joining AM Racing for the upcoming season has stirred reactions across the NASCAR community.
Sanchez’s Performance Draws Attention
During his tenure with Big Machine Racing, Sanchez stood out by ending a three-year winless streak for the team, securing their first victory in that period. In addition to his pivotal win, Sanchez achieved six top-five finishes and five top-ten results, ultimately concluding the year ranked 12th in the driver standings. These achievements highlighted his rising status in the NASCAR series and set high expectations for his future.
Controversy Surrounds Sanchez’s Release
Despite his clear talent and contributions, Big Machine Racing made the decision to part ways with the 24-year-old driver, which generated criticism within the sport. Dale Earnhardt Jr., a respected NASCAR figure, was among those who questioned the team’s choice, expressing both surprise and confusion over the timing and motivation behind Sanchez’s release.
AM Racing Welcomes Sanchez to Their Roster
Shortly before the new season, AM Racing revealed that Sanchez would be joining their team as the driver of the No. 25 Ford Mustang Dark Horse. The announcement was celebrated by the team and shared on social media with the following statement:
“AM Racing is excited to announce the signing of rising phenom Nick Sanchez as the driver of the team’s No. 25 Ford Mustang Dark Horse in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series,”
AM Racing statement.
Sanchez himself shared his enthusiasm for the new opportunity, posting:
“Excited for this new chapter with @AMRacingNASCAR & @FordRacing. Ready for this opportunity and focused on the season ahead!”
Nick Sanchez, NASCAR driver
Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s Reflections on Sanchez’s Situation
In earlier comments on his podcast, Dale Jr. Download, Earnhardt Jr. discussed his reaction to the sudden move:
“It’s a surprise for one because he ran really well last year, and the other surprise is the timing,”
Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR legend
He also addressed how challenging a late release can be for drivers seeking placements:
“It’s late. It’s a tough part of the year to find out that you don’t have a job for next season.”
Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR legend
Earnhardt speculated on the possible explanations for Sanchez’s unexpected departure, hinting there might be behind-the-scenes developments unknown to the public:
“These are the funny things about these deals is we do not know that Nick Sanchez doesn’t have something else going on, and that he’s out at Big Machine because he’s got this other opportunity. We don’t … I don’t want to look like a fool sitting here going, ‘Man, what a surprise. What a shock. What’s Nick Sanchez going to do?’ Hell, he might already know.”
Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR legend
He also spoke candidly about Sanchez’s personality and impact on the sport:
“The other thing too I like is that he pisses some people off, right?”
Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR legend
“I mean, I don’t love that cause sometimes he pisses me off or he pisses one of my guys off…But as a fan or as a broadcaster and as somebody who’s like wanting to fall in love with the sport. We need guys like that.”
Dale Earnhardt Jr., NASCAR legend
Sanchez Responds to His Exit from Big Machine Racing
After his release, Sanchez expressed gratitude toward his former team and optimism for what lies ahead:
“I am proud of all we have accomplish this year including out win. Unfortunate timing and circumstances, but it’s strictly business. When one door closes another one opens. Excited about what is ahead!”
Nick Sanchez, NASCAR driver
What’s Next for Sanchez and the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series
With the United Rentals 300 scheduled to kick off the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series on February 14, anticipation is building around Sanchez’s debut with AM Racing. His move has added a new storyline to the upcoming season and will likely be closely watched by fans, rival teams, and figures such as Dale Earnhardt Jr. The shift could influence team strategies while highlighting the unpredictable nature of professional racing careers. As Sanchez embarks on this next chapter, the motorsports world will be watching to see how he adapts and performs with his new team.
New Year ➡️ New Driver! Welcome @Nicksanchez080 pic.twitter.com/Ty5mdYQyUO
— AM Racing (@AMRacingNASCAR) February 9, 2026
Excited for this new chapter with @AMRacingNASCAR & @FordRacing . Ready for this opportunity and focused on the season ahead! pic.twitter.com/bR9UxGTZ2d
— Nicholas Sanchez (@Nicksanchez080) February 9, 2026
