Halmar Friesen Racing (HFR) is preparing for an expanded presence in the 2026 Truck Series by promoting Dustin Dunn to crew chief for Stewart Friesen. This change follows the decision to transition Friesen’s former crew chief, Jimmy Villeneuve, to oversee the No. 62 team as the organization moves to a two-truck setup.
Villeneuve and Friesen secured a victory last season at Michigan before Friesen’s campaign was cut short by a severe injury. Despite the setback, Villeneuve continued to demonstrate his leadership with Kaden Honey, contributing to Honey’s third-place finish in the championship.
Dustin Dunn, who collaborated with Villeneuve throughout the previous season and worked with HFR’s part-time entries, will now guide Friesen’s efforts full-time. Friesen noted the shift on social media, emphasizing the team’s focus on growth and stability.
“Continuity, growth, and a strong foundation for 2026. Our crew chief lineup is set as we expand to a full-time two-truck operation.”
Stewart Friesen Reflects on Partnership with New Crew Chief Dustin Dunn
In an official statement from the team, Friesen expressed confidence in his working relationship with Dunn, highlighting their effective communication during races. He explained that this strategic change allows Villeneuve to concentrate on developing the No. 62 truck, enhancing the overall strength of the team.
“Dustin and I have built a great relationship over the past few years…Having Dustin in my ear during the race allows Jimmy to focus on the continued development of the No. 62 team, and it’s a big step forward for our entire organization,”
Stewart Friesen, Driver
Friesen is set to return to NASCAR competition after recovering from a leg and pelvic injury sustained last year in a dirt racing accident. While Friesen drives the primary No. 52 entry, the No. 62 truck will feature a rotating lineup of drivers, with John Hunter Nemechek piloting the vehicle in the upcoming race at Daytona International Speedway. Nemechek currently races the No. 42 Toyota for Legacy Motor Club in the Cup Series.
Insights into Stewart Friesen’s Recovery from Severe Injury
During a discussion with NASCAR analyst Bob Pockrass, Friesen detailed the challenges he faced after a major crash in the Super DIRTcar Series. The accident happened in Drummondville, Quebec, where Friesen’s car flipped and caught fire after going over a barricade. Prior to the incident, he had achieved the fastest qualifying time and won his heat race.
Regarding his ability to race again, the 42-year-old shared a measured but optimistic update on his physical condition.
“No marathons yet and no ballet in my future. But yeah, I’m good enough to do what I need to do in a car.”
“It was a long time on crutches and then transition to a cane for a couple of weeks. But I started leaving that around the house and losing it places. So I said, okay, screw that, I just got to kind of push through it and keep building muscle and still have some ways to go, but I’m feeling really good,”
Stewart Friesen, Driver
Friesen recently tested his dirt modified car and is cleared to compete in the Fresh From Florida 250 at Daytona International Speedway, signaling a hopeful return to form as the Truck Series season approaches.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Truck Series Season
With this crew chief reorganization, Halmar Friesen Racing has positioned itself for an ambitious two-truck entry next year. The combination of Friesen’s recovery and the fresh leadership of Dustin Dunn behind the pit box marks a strategic effort to build on past successes. Meanwhile, the No. 62 team’s rotation of drivers led initially by John Hunter Nemechek indicates a flexible approach aimed at maximizing results across both entries.
These moves underscore HFR’s commitment to strengthening its competitive edge within NASCAR’s Truck Series, potentially shaping the team’s trajectory in a highly competitive environment.
Continuity, growth, and a strong foundation for 2026.
Our crew chief lineup is set as we expand to a full time two truck operation.
Release: https://t.co/ufgmD80TFM pic.twitter.com/lnl2DgtAyf
— Stewart Friesen (@StewartFriesen) January 30, 2026
