Corey Heim, a rising star in NASCAR and the 2025 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series champion, has confirmed a part-time return to the NASCAR Cup Series with 23XI Racing for the 2026 season. The 23-year-old driver will compete in 12 events with the team co-owned by Michael Jordan and Denny Hamlin, starting with the prestigious Daytona 500 on February 15.
Heim’s expanded schedule marks a progression from his five-race effort with 23XI Racing in 2025, reflecting the team’s confidence in his potential. Hamlin emphasized the long-term nature of this plan, aimed at preparing Heim for a full-time Cup Series role in the future.
We’re continuing to stick to our plan and taking a long-term approach, while also remaining focused on what is collectively best for our organization and our partners as we look to continue being a competitive, winning organization each weekend,
Hamlin said.
The 12 races on Heim’s schedule span a variety of tracks, including marquee events at Kansas, Texas, Charlotte, Nashville, San Diego, Chicagoland, Indianapolis, Darlington, and Homestead-Miami, giving him broad experience across the circuit.
Corey Heim Expresses Enthusiasm for Continued Growth in Cup Series
Heim, a native of Georgia, expressed strong enthusiasm about the opportunity to race more frequently in the Cup Series next year, highlighting his dedication to developing his skills on and off the track. Despite the desire many drivers have to compete full-time immediately, Heim is committed to the strategic path laid out by the team.
Every driver wants to race as much as possible, but I’m fully committed to the approach that I am taking with the team. I look forward to more Cup races this year and the opportunity to grow and expand my race-craft on and off the track,
Heim added.
During the 2025 season, Heim attempted five Cup races but only qualified for four, missing the Chicago Street Race. His best finish was sixth place at Bristol in September, followed by a 13th-place finish at Kansas in May, demonstrating steady progress against tough competition.
Historic Truck Series Season Highlights Heim’s Talent
Corey Heim dominated the 2025 CRAFTSMAN Truck Series by breaking the record for most wins in a single season with 12 victories. Driving the #11 Toyota for Tricon Garage, Heim secured his first career Truck Series championship by outperforming rivals such as Ty Majeski, Kaden Honeycutt, and Tyler Ankrum, particularly in the decisive race at Phoenix.
Heim captured wins at a diverse set of tracks including Daytona, Las Vegas, Texas, Charlotte, Lime Rock Park, Watkins Glen, and Martinsville, showcasing versatility and consistency throughout the year. In the Phoenix finale, he led 100 of 161 laps, demonstrating his dominance en route to clinching the title.
While Heim will continue racing part-time in the Truck Series for Tricon Garage in 2026, the specifics of his schedule have not yet been finalized, as his focus gradually shifts toward solidifying his Cup Series presence.
Implications for Heim’s NASCAR Future
Corey Heim’s expanded part-time role in the Cup Series with 23XI Racing signals a crucial step in his development toward a full-time seat in the premier NASCAR division. His record-breaking performance in the Truck Series and measured progress in the Cup Series underline his potential to become a consistent contender at the highest level.
For 23XI Racing, nurturing Heim aligns with their vision of building a competitive and sustainable team, leveraging Heim’s talent over multiple seasons. As 2026 unfolds, fans and analysts will closely watch Heim’s performances in his dozen scheduled races to gauge his readiness for a permanent spot in NASCAR’s top tier.
