Leland Honeyman, initially slated to compete full-time in the ARCA Menards Series for 2026, will now run part-time, participating in select events only, Nitro Motorsports announced on January 26. This adjustment highlights a new approach focusing on strategic opportunities in Honeyman’s racing program.
Switch to No. 15 Toyota and Team Lineup Modifications
Nitro Motorsports revealed that Honeyman will drive the No. 15 Toyota instead of the No. 20 car originally assigned to him. The No. 15 car will join Nitro’s full-time roster, which includes the No. 20, No. 25, No. 55, and No. 70 entries, reflecting the team’s aim to expand its footprint in the ARCA Menards Series.
Collaborative Effort Behind the New Part-Time Plan
The part-time transition stems from a joint decision between Honeyman and Nitro Motorsports as part of their long-term strategy. Nitro stated in its release:
“The focused schedule reflects a collaborative approach between Honeyman and Nitro Motorsports as the organization continues to build toward sustained success in 2026 and beyond,”
and added,
“Honeyman remains a key part of Nitro Motorsports’ driver lineup and long-term vision.”
Honeyman’s Racing Background and ARCA Performance
Honeyman’s revised ARCA participation follows two seasons in the NASCAR O’Reilly Series. His ARCA stats include eight starts in the main series and three races in 2025 alone, where he secured three top-five and five top-ten finishes. His consistency was also evident in the 2022 ARCA Menards Series East, where he finished third in the points standings.
Intentional Race Selection to Maximize Success
Explaining the reasons behind the switch, Honeyman expressed a clear focus on quality over quantity:
“This is about being intentional with our opportunities and putting ourselves in the best position to win,”
He further stated,
“My goal has always been to compete full-time at the highest level, and this approach allows me to pour everything into each race I enter. I’m excited to make the most of every start in the No. 15 and continue proving what I’m capable of.”
Team Owner Nick Tucker Endorses Focused Strategy
Nick Tucker, owner of Nitro Motorsports, highlighted Honeyman’s dedication and team alignment:
“Leland has shown tremendous work ethic, maturity, and commitment,”
He continued,
“This focused program allows us to align resources, sharpen our competitive efforts, and give Leland the platform to deliver strong results. He remains an important part of our future, and we believe this approach sets everyone up for success.”
Team Expansion and Driver Assignments for 2026
With the No. 15 car becoming a full-time entry, Nitro Motorsports plans to appoint a new full-time driver for the No. 20 car, which Honeyman will no longer drive. Jake Bollman recently tested the No. 20 at Daytona International Speedway, indicating competition for that seat. Isabella Robusto and Thomas Annunziata will maintain full-time rides in the Nos. 55 and 70 cars, respectively, with the third full-time driver for the No. 20 to be announced soon.
Nitro Motorsports’ 2026 lineup will also feature Jake Finch piloting the No. 15, Gus Dean in the No. 25, and Wesley Slimp in the No. 90. Honeyman, however, will sit out the season opener at Daytona as part of this new concentrated schedule.
Impact of Honeyman’s Part-Time Role on Future Prospects
The shift to a Leland Honeyman ARCA part-time campaign allows Nitro Motorsports to allocate resources efficiently and sharpen its competitive edge in each race. This strategy supports the team’s broader goal of long-term growth, highlights promising drivers like Annunziata and Robusto, and ensures Honeyman remains integral to Nitro’s ambitions moving forward.
Full
— Nitro Motorsports (@racewithnitro) January 26, 2026
