The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season is approaching, bringing significant changes in driver and crew chief lineups across several teams. As the 78th year of top-tier stock car racing in the United States begins with the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on February 15, NASCAR Cup Series 2026 changes are set to reshape the competitive landscape.
Notable Driver and Crew Chief Changes for 2026
With full-time charter slots nearly filled, teams have revealed a range of adjustments to both driver seats and pit crews, signaling a new era for some of NASCAR’s most prominent teams. These moves aim to sharpen their competitive edge as the season opener nears.
Ross Chastain Partners with New Crew Chief at Trackhouse Racing
Ross Chastain embarks on his fifth season driving the No. 1 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 with Trackhouse Racing. Chastain, who clinched his first series win — and Trackhouse’s as well — in 2022, will now have Brandon McSwain calling the shots from the pit box. McSwain, formerly a race engineer for William Byron and credited with 16 career race victories, replaces Phil Surgen, who transitions to a new role within the organization.
Daniel Suarez Joins Spire Motorsports with New Team Management
After five years at Trackhouse Racing, Daniel Suarez is set to drive the No. 7 Chevrolet for Spire Motorsports in 2026, succeeding Justin Haley. Suarez will team up with Ryan Sparks as his crew chief, while Matt McCall steps in as the Cup Series competition director for the team. Sparks brings knowledge from his past experiences, including roles as competition director and interim crew chief for a past Xfinity Series champion.
Kyle Busch and Jim Pohlman Form New Duo at Richard Childress Racing
Kyle Busch begins his third full season with Richard Childress Racing with Jim Pohlman taking over as his crew chief. Previously, Pohlman had orchestrated strategies for Justin Allgaier in the Xfinity Series over three seasons. Chairman and CEO Richard Childress expressed confidence in this new leadership on the No. 8 team:
“Jim Pohlman is a relentless competitor in the garage and fits in well with our mission and approach at RCR,” said Richard Childress, Chairman and CEO of Richard Childress Racing. “He was well-respected during his previous tenure in Welcome, and we know that he will do a great job leading the No. 8 team and Kyle Busch.”
Meanwhile, Randall Burnett, Busch’s previous crew chief, will transition to another capacity within the sport, further strengthening the organization’s technical expertise.
Legacy Motor Club Makes Strategic Crew Chief Appointment for Erik Jones
Erik Jones, set to drive the No. 43 Toyota for Legacy Motor Club, gains Justin Alexander as his new crew chief for 2026. Justin Alexander replaces Ben Beshore, who will now concentrate on his role as race engineering director for the organization. Jimmie Johnson, owner of Legacy Motor Club, highlighted the impact of this transition:
“We’re continuing to evolve and refine every part of our race program, and Justin is a tremendous addition to our crew chief lineup,” said Legacy Motor Club owner and former NASCAR driver Jimmie Johnson. “His experience, communication style, and leadership align perfectly with the direction we’re headed.“
Cody Ware Adopts a New Manufacturer with Rick Ware Racing
For 2026, Cody Ware remains with Rick Ware Racing but will drive a new Chevrolet as part of a newly established technical alliance with Richard Childress Racing. While the crew chief for Ware remains unchanged, this switch to Chevrolet introduces fresh opportunities and resources for the team as they aim to improve performance this season and beyond.
Connor Zilisch Steps Up at Trackhouse Racing with New Leadership
Connor Zilisch moves into a full-time role with Trackhouse Racing after competing in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series with JR Motorsports. In 2026, he will be paired with Randal Burnett, who previously worked alongside Kyle Busch at Richard Childress Racing, adding valuable experience to the No. 88 entry’s pit box.
What These Changes Mean for the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series
The realignment of drivers and crew chiefs across key NASCAR Cup Series teams promises to intensify competition and introduce new storylines as the 68th Daytona 500 approaches. With notable names like Ross Chastain, Daniel Suarez, Kyle Busch, Erik Jones, Cody Ware, and Connor Zilisch embarking on new partnerships or roles, both established veterans and rising stars have opportunities to shine. Each team’s strategic decisions are poised to shape the outcome of the 2026 season, making it one of the most anticipated in recent memory for fans and competitors alike.
