As the 2025 NASCAR Cup season approaches its conclusion, significant changes are unfolding in the sport’s landscape. Among the most notable is Kyle Busch‘s crew chief, Randall Burnett, deciding to join Trackhouse Racing in 2026, leaving Busch’s #8 team to search for a new crew chief. This development has drawn attention from many within NASCAR, with Denny Hamlin sharing his perspective on the challenges behind this shift, offering insight into Kyle Busch’s ongoing struggles.
Denny Hamlin’s Perspective on Burnett’s Departure from Busch’s Team
The pairing of Kyle Busch and Randall Burnett has faced difficulties over the past two seasons. In 2024, Busch experienced his first winless year and missed the playoffs for the first time in his career, breaking a long-standing streak. The struggles continued into the 2025 season, with only a couple of top-five finishes and a handful of top-ten results after 31 races. Busch’s winless streak has now stretched to 88 races, a span unlikely to end this season. Frustrations within the #8 team have been apparent, exemplified by spotter Derek Kneeland’s on-air discontent during the Kansas race shortly after Burnett’s departure was announced.
Hamlin reflected on the situation, acknowledging the need for a fresh perspective both for Busch and his crew chief.
I think he needed a change. I think all parties kind of need a change, and certainly Kyle’s going through it right now. Certainly, the performance is not there,
Hamlin said.
I am a believer that Kyle Busch still has the ability to go win races.
Hamlin further discussed the performance challenges the #8 cars have faced this season, suggesting the issues are complex and not solely the fault of one individual.
I do think that his cars are off, but I don’t think they’re off to the extent that we’re seeing on Sundays. Like, I don’t know that Randall Bernett is making the car spin out every week or hit the wall every week…But certainly it’s not good. So I think everyone just wanted a change of scenery and they’re all going to get it.
Randall Burnett’s New Role and Implications for Trackhouse Racing
Burnett is set to become the crew chief for rookie Connor Zilisch in the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series. He brings valuable experience, holding six Cup Series wins—three with Tyler Reddick in 2022 and three with Busch last year. His prior success includes leading Reddick to an Xfinity Series championship in 2019, highlighting his capability to guide young talent effectively. This new position represents a significant step for Burnett, as Trackhouse Racing continues to grow as a competitive organization.
Trackhouse Racing has expanded its roster with skilled drivers like Ross Chastain, road course specialist Shane van Gisbergen, and rising star Connor Zilisch, who has made waves in the Xfinity Series with nine wins so far. Burnett expressed enthusiasm about joining this energetic team and working with the promising rookie.
I’m excited about my opportunity over there, and you know, obviously, something’s got to change on this 8 car. We haven’t been performing the way we needed to. I think everybody needs a fresh start. I got a really good opportunity with where I’m going. Obviously, Connor’s a great young talent…So, you know, just kind of all worked out.
What the Crew Chief Change Means for Kyle Busch and NASCAR’s Future
The shakeup signals a pivotal moment for Busch and the #8 team as they look to recover from an extended slump. Burnett’s move to a promising young driver offers mutual benefits but poses challenges for Busch to adjust to a new crew chief dynamic. The team’s ability to bounce back may hinge on these changes, illustrating how vital leadership is in maintaining competitiveness in NASCAR.
Observers note parallels with other recent team changes, such as the split between Rodney Childers and Justin Haley after a brief nine-race collaboration. While optimism surrounds the Burnett-Zilisch partnership for 2026, there is caution about managing expectations and results in such transitions.
Ultimately, these changes could influence the trajectory of several key NASCAR teams as the sport evolves, spotlighting the impact of crew chief decisions and team chemistry on achieving championship aspirations.
