The NASCAR Truck Series sponsorship is approaching a major turning point, as Craftsman’s long-standing partnership is set to end after the 2026 season, leaving the title sponsorship open for the first time in several years. With Craftsman yet to extend its deal, NASCAR will soon begin searching for new sponsors to carry the brand forward.
Craftsman’s History as Title Sponsor and Uncertain Future
Craftsman first became the presenting partner of the NASCAR Truck Series when it debuted in 1995, maintaining this crucial role until 2008. After Stanley Black & Decker acquired Craftsman in 2017 from Sears, Roebuck & Co., the brand returned to NASCAR, penning a $900 million agreement covering multiple years through 2026. This robust sponsorship has contributed significantly to the visibility and development of the Truck Series over the years.
The recent announcement about Craftsman’s potential departure surfaced on X, shared by Adam Stern of SBJ. He stated,
“Craftsman’s title sponsorship of NASCAR Trucks expires after this year and a renewal hasn’t been reached yet, so the sanctioning body will likely soon enter the sponsor market for a potential replacement in case no deal is reached, per people familiar.”
– Adam Stern, reporter
No official updates have followed regarding discussions between NASCAR and Craftsman, with the company providing no response to inquiries. Industry sources predict that any future sponsorship deals could require commitments around $10 million annually, reflecting the high profile and audience reach of the Truck Series. As NASCAR prepares for this shift, both established and aspiring brands may see an opportunity to establish a significant motorsports presence.
Upcoming NASCAR Truck Series Race and Schedule Updates
The NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series continues this season with the OnlyBulls Green Flag 150, slated for February 28 in St. Petersburg. Fans can catch the full 80 laps live on FOX starting at noon ET, or listen for comprehensive updates on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. Ongoing race broadcasts will offer fans real-time coverage and analysis as the series progresses toward new sponsorship talks and the close of an iconic partnership.
All-Star Race to See New Venue and Format in 2026
NASCAR has announced substantive changes for the 2026 All-Star Race, moving the event from North Wilkesboro Speedway to Dover Motor Speedway. Emphasizing innovation, the upcoming exhibition will span 350 laps across several race segments and reintroduce the celebrated Pit Crew Challenge, intensifying the competitive atmosphere among pit crews and drivers alike.
Qualifying results will set the stage for Segment 1, a 75-lap opener. For the following segment, the top 26 drivers from the opener will be inverted, adding strategic unpredictability. The main event will close with a 200-lap contest among 26 qualifiers, promising an exciting show for participants and spectators.
Winners in each category will be rewarded handsomely, with the race champion earning a $1 million prize and the fastest error-free pit crew taking home the Pit Crew Challenge title. Fans can watch the spectacle live on FS1 at 1 pm ET on May 17, or listen via MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio for comprehensive event coverage.
The Implications of Changing NASCAR Truck Series Sponsorship
With Craftsman’s time as title sponsor possibly concluding, NASCAR faces critical decisions for its Truck Series’ future identity and marketing partnerships. The outcome could reshape sponsorship strategies across the motorsports industry, influencing the financial framework for brands like Stanley Black & Decker and potential newcomers. As the series moves toward its next chapter, stakeholders are watching closely to see how NASCAR navigates the transition and secures a fresh partnership to take over from 2027 onward.
.@Craftsman’s title sponsorship of @NASCAR_Trucks expires after this year and a renewal hasn’t been reached yet, so the sanctioning body will likely soon enter the sponsor market for a potential replacement in case no deal is reached, per people familiar. https://t.co/LsYOn2Ca79
— Adam Stern (@A_S12) February 25, 2026
