Mooresville, N.C. – Seventeen-year-old Austin Vaughn from Burnsville, Mississippi, is set to drive full-time for Maples Motorsports in the 2026 ARCA Menards Series East, piloting the No. 19 car throughout the season. In addition to the full East Series schedule, Vaughn will take part in selected ARCA Menards Series races, with his complete lineup still being finalized.
Vaughn’s Growing Success and Goals for 2026
Despite only entering his second year in the ARCA Menards Series framework, Vaughn made a notable impression last season by finishing fourth in the ARCA East standings, overcoming significant challenges along the way. This year, he is focused on building upon that performance and sharpening his skills by working closely with the Maples Motorsports team both in the shop and on the racetrack.
I am thrilled to be joining MMS for the ARCA Menards Series East season,
Vaughn said.
I cannot wait to get the season started and make my team proud, I have to thank Michael Maples for this amazing opportunity and it means so much to me that I get to race for his team.
Team Owner Michael Maples Welcomes Vaughn’s Commitment
Michael Maples, owner of Maples Motorsports, expressed his enthusiasm about adding Vaughn to his team. He highlighted Vaughn’s impressive work ethic, attitude, and driving talent demonstrated last season as key reasons for this partnership. Maples looks forward to seeing what Vaughn achieves during the 2026 campaign.
I am super proud to have Austin Vaughn join our team for the East Season,
said Michael Maples.
He impressed me immensely last season with his work ethic, attitude and talent behind the wheel; so when the opportunity came up to work together this year we had to jump at it. I look forward to seeing what Austin accomplishes in 2026!
Upcoming Season Opener at Hickory Motor Speedway
The ARCA Menards Series East will start its 2026 season on March 28 at the historic Hickory Motor Speedway. Fans can watch the opening race streamed live on FloRacing as Austin Vaughn and Maples Motorsports begin their campaign with high ambitions and strong determination.
