Patrick Staropoli has secured a full-time seat with Big Machine Racing for the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series in 2026, the team confirmed on December 23. The Patrick Staropoli NASCAR 2026 season marks a major career milestone as Staropoli takes over the No. 48 Chevrolet vacated by Nick Sanchez.
Staropoli Steps Into the No. 48 Car
Staropoli, who made his series debut in 2025 with Sam Hunt Racing, replaces Nick Sanchez, who piloted the No. 48 in 2025 before his release earlier in December. Sanchez’s departure followed a productive season, with one victory, seven top-five finishes, and a dozen top 10s, but his plans for 2026 have not been revealed. SYFOVRE has been named the primary sponsor for the forthcoming season, signaling strong backing for the team’s new direction.
Staropoli’s Racing Path and Recent Comeback
Staropoli, who first began chasing his motorsports dreams at Hialeah Speedway in 2003, re-entered national stock-car competition in 2025 following a nine-year absence. His recent performances, including two top 20s in four starts, demonstrated lasting skill after nearly a decade away. Earlier accomplishments on his resume include a victory in the 2014 ARCA Menards Series West and a NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series start in 2016, underscoring a diverse racing background.
“From the moment I buckled into a pure stock at Hialeah Speedway in 2003, my life’s goal has been to compete at the top levels of this sport,”
Staropoli said in a team release.
“The path has taken many unexpected turns but after working every day for 23 years in pursuit of this dream, I now have the opportunity of a lifetime thanks to Scott Borchetta, Patrick Donahue and Chevrolet.”
–Patrick Staropoli, Driver
Big Machine Racing’s Vision for 2026
The organization’s leadership views Staropoli’s arrival as a strong step towards future success. Team principal Patrick Donahue praised Staropoli’s commitment, highlighting the combination of his professional and personal qualities.
“We’re pleased to welcome Dr. Patrick Staropoli to the No. 48 Big Machine Racing team for the 2026 season,”
Donahue added.
“He brings a rare blend of professionalism, focus and drive that will continue to strengthen our organization. This partnership reflects our commitment to surrounding the team with individuals who share our values and vision for building long-term success.”
–Patrick Donahue, Team Principal
In addition, Staropoli’s goal is to use his partnership with SYFOVRE to spotlight medical concerns related to Geographic Atrophy secondary to Age-Related Macular Degeneration, merging his interests in racing and medicine.
“I am ready to do whatever it takes to put this SYFOVRE Chevy up front and raise awareness for Geographic Atrophy secondary to Age-Related Macular Degeneration by combining my passion for motorsports and medicine.”
–Patrick Staropoli, Driver
What Lies Ahead for the Team and Staropoli
With 2025 establishing his return, the Patrick Staropoli NASCAR 2026 season will present new opportunities as he aims to deliver consistent results for Big Machine Racing. With leadership from figures like Scott Borchetta and Patrick Donahue and technical support from Chevrolet, the team is poised to build upon its recent achievements and strengthen its status in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. Fans and observers alike are watching closely to see how Staropoli’s unique blend of automotive and medical expertise will leave its mark on NASCAR in 2026.
