Corey Heim is set to make his return to NASCAR’s premier level by competing part-time in the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series, starting with the prestigious Daytona 500. After an offseason marked by uncertainty despite a standout 2025 Craftsman Truck Series season, Heim’s NASCAR comeback is taking shape with a focus on proving his place among the sport’s elite.
The 22-year-old driver from Georgia earned widespread respect during his dominant campaign last year, showcasing his talent as one of Toyota’s top young prospects. Although he stepped away from a full-time role with Tricon Garage, Heim maintained ties to 23XI Racing, where he will now embark on his part-time Cup schedule. This season will be an important phase as Heim works to solidify his NASCAR Cup Series future.
Heim’s Journey to the Daytona 500 Spotlight
Heim’s participation at Daytona represents more than just another race; it is an opportunity to make a significant impression. He will pilot the No. 67 Toyota Camry XSE for 23XI Racing, with longtime sponsor Robinhood returning as the primary backer. This partnership is a continuation of last year’s collaboration when Robinhood supported Heim in three Cup starts, where he recorded promising results including a sixth-place finish at Bristol.
Despite this momentum, making the Daytona 500 field is not guaranteed. The No. 67 car is an open entry, meaning Heim must secure his spot through qualifying events or the Duel races rather than relying on a guaranteed charter. This scenario creates a high-pressure environment where every lap counts, and the slightest error could end his weekend prematurely.
Team Support and High Stakes at Daytona
23XI Racing’s leadership has expressed confidence in Heim’s capabilities and the value of his partnership with Robinhood. Team president Steve Lauletta emphasized their excitement about competing for a place in the Daytona 500, stating,
“We’re proud to have Robinhood growing with our team and excited to see the Robin Neon paint scheme competing for a starting spot at the Daytona 500.” — Steve Lauletta, 23XI Racing President
He further highlighted Robinhood’s innovative role in the financial services sector, adding,
“Robinhood continues to be one of the most innovative brands in the financial services category, and we look forward to another year of engaging with their customers in fresh, cutting-edge ways that only Robinhood and 23XI can do.” — Steve Lauletta, 23XI Racing President
Heim’s part-time Cup schedule does not limit his chances to impress, as he has consistently outperformed full-time teammates in previous starts. His past performance indicates that he remains a strong contender for a full-time position in the near future.
Implications of Heim’s Return and What’s Next
Corey Heim’s reemergence in NASCAR with a race at Daytona positions him at a crossroads where success could accelerate his ascent in the sport. His battle to earn a place in the Daytona 500 underscores the competitive nature of NASCAR’s top tier, especially for drivers without guaranteed entries.
As the season unfolds, Heim’s performances will be closely scrutinized by teams and fans alike, given his prior Truck Series championship and strong Cup outings. This opportunity offers him a platform to demonstrate why his talents deserve more consistent recognition and why he is a driver to watch moving forward in NASCAR’s evolving landscape.
#NASCAR – Corey Heim won't compete full-time in any series this season, but he will make several starts.
The first two will take place with 23XI Racing and Tricon Garage. https://t.co/AQHwwFeZhJ— John Newby (@JohnNewby_) January 27, 2026
