The 2025 season marks a decade in which the NASCAR Cup Series has functionally operated under the ‘charter agreement,’ but it’s also the first year of the second document and first extension to an agreement first crafted in advance of the 2016 season.
It’s also the first season that began with a lawsuit with two teams alleging federal antitrust violations against the sanctioning body stemming from the results of the negotiations process over the charter system extension.
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So what exactly is the charter system?
Simply stated, ownership charters represent status that allow entries included in the system entry into every single race while also providing guaranteed revenue based on the negotiated terms prior to the start of a charter period. The first agreement ran the length of a television rights agreement from 2016-to-2024 and the second agreement runs the length of the second rights agreement from 2025-to-2031. The agreement also requires teams to participate in agreed upon marketing exercises and allows NASCAR to use the teams intellectual properties to promote the sport.
That is overly simplified but gives you the general idea.
The teams have started to treat these charters as if they were the NASCAR equivalent to stick and ball franchises like the New England Patriots or Los Angeles Dodgers. The idea is that every car number exists like a professional sports team. Unlike stick-and-ball teams, the NASCAR Cup Series is not an equal partnership and that is also part and parcel to the 2024 lawsuit.
Anyway, there are 36 of these ownership tokens in NASCAR and they earn shared perks of competing under the NASCAR Cup Series umbrella. Most importantly, the cars that are paired with an ownership charter have guaranteed starting positions into every Cup Series race, regardless of the size of an entry list on any given weekend.
Similar to how stick and ball franchises receive shared revenue from TV contracts or licensing agreements, NASCAR Cup Series teams also receive similar benefits granted to them under the charter agreement.
First, understand that the value of all 36 charters are not equal.
The value of a charter is based on the performance of its car over the past two seasons. How much a team makes at the end of the year is determined by a formula that takes into account the value of the charter and where the team finished in the championship standings.
There is also a ‘seat at the decision making table’ element to the charter system.
It works very similar to the Concorde Agreement in Formula 1, in which the sanctioning body has a certain degree of dialogue, in principle with the teams over competition related decisions.
A majority of the teams are also aligned under a union-like entity called the Race Team Alliance. The RTA has its own media entity, Racing America, and also has a negotiating committee that communicates with NASCAR on business related matters.
The maximum field size for a NASCAR Cup Series race is 40 cars, meaning that up to four teams without a charter can still take the green flag but they receive considerably less purse money than those who possess an ownership charter.
The creation of the system created a demand for charters — resulting in an economic ecosystem.
From the very beginning, NASCAR and the RTA set out to create a model that created long-term value for owning a team, while also creating competition to acquire a charter. The idea being, if there was value in possessing an ownership charter, there would be value upon needing to sell it.
In previous eras, when a Cup Series team went out of business for whatever reason, it had nothing of value to sell beyond its race shops. The cars became quickly outdated and equipment was sold for pennies on the dollar.
The escalating value of owning an ownership charter has created supply and demand on the open market.
Then there is the NextGen car, now in its fourth season, that aims to provide long-term cost containment even if it isn’t remotely there yet. The car is a de facto spec car meaning that every component, except the engines and bodies, are identical. The working theory is that teams will eventually save money as inventory builds and the parts and pieces become standard.
If the Next-Gen car (eventually) reduces the cost of competition, and if the next broadcast rights agreement provides greater revenue opportunities, teams will be less reliant on sponsorship money to remain in business. That’s the concept, at least.
Each ownership charter can be leased once within an agreement period to another organization, but it must be returned to its original owner after the end of one season.
The first charter agreement ran from 2016 to 2020. The current charter agreement runs from 2021 to 2024 through the current television broadcast agreement with FOX and NBC. The next broadcast rights agreement runs from 2025 to 2031 and includes FOX, NBC, TNT and Amazon Prime.
The current version of the document can be viewed in its entirety below.
There are currently 36 charters but that number can change at NASCAR’s discretion with payouts to change accordingly.
From the very start of the charter agreement, many charters have been sold or leased over the years. The following details the history of each ownership charter entering the 2025 season.
Trackhouse Racing No. 1
Ross Chastain, Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet
Photo by: James Gilbert / Getty Images
This charter is currently owned by Trackhouse Racing and is associated with the No. 1 car driven by Ross Chastain. It was first awarded to Chip Ganassi in 2016 when the No. 1 was piloted by Jamie McMurray and remained there when Kurt Busch signed with the team. Trackhouse acquired the No. 1 charter when it purchased the NASCAR assets of Ganassi after the 2021 season. Ross Chastain was moved from the Ganassi No. 42 to the No. 1 car.
Awarded: Chip Ganassi Racing No. 1 2016: Chip Ganassi Racing No. 1 (Jamie McMurray) 2017: Chip Ganassi Racing No. 1 (Jamie McMurray) 2018: Chip Ganassi Racing No. 1 (Jamie McMurray) 2019: Chip Ganassi Racing No. 1 (Kurt Busch) 2020: Chip Ganassi Racing No. 1 (Kurt Busch) 2021: Chip Ganassi Racing No. 1 (Kurt Busch) 2022: Trackhouse Racing No. 1 (Ross Chastain) 2023: Trackhouse Racing No. 1 (Ross Chastain) 2024: Trackhouse Racing No. 1 (Ross Chastain) 2025: Trackhouse Racing No. 1 (Ross Chastain)
Team Penske No. 2
Austin Cindric, Team Penske Ford
Photo by: Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images
This charter is currently owned by Team Penske and is associated with the No. 2 car driven by Austin Cindric. It has always been aligned with this car. It was driven by Brad Keselowski when the charter was awarded and remained with the No. 2 when Cindric signed with the team.
Awarded: Team Penske No. 2 2016: Team Penske No. 2 (Brad Keselowski) 2017: Team Penske No. 2 (Brad Keselowski) 2018: Team Penske No. 2 (Brad Keselowski) 2019: Team Penske No. 2 (Brad Keselowski) 2020: Team Penske No. 2 (Brad Keselowski) 2021: Team Penske No. 2 (Brad Keselowski) 2022: Team Penske No. 2 (Austin Cindric) 2023: Team Penske No. 2 (Austin Cindric) 2024: Team Penske No. 2 (Austin Cindric) 2025: Team Penske No. 2 (Austin Cindric)
Richard Childress Racing No. 3
Austin Dillon, Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet
Photo by: Samuel Corum / Getty Images
This charter is currently owned by Richard Childress Racing and associated with the No. 3 car driven by Austin Dillon. It has always been aligned with this combination.
Awarded: Richard Childress Racing No. 3 2016: Richard Childress Racing No. 3 (Austin Dillon) 2017: Richard Childress Racing No. 3 (Austin Dillon) 2018: Richard Childress Racing No. 3 (Austin Dillon) 2019: Richard Childress Racing No. 3 (Austin Dillon) 2020: Richard Childress Racing No. 3 (Austin Dillon) 2021: Richard Childress Racing No. 3 (Austin Dillon) 2022: Richard Childress Racing No. 3 (Austin Dillon) 2023: Richard Childress Racing No. 3 (Austin Dillon) 2024: Richard Childress Racing No. 3 (Austin Dillon) 2025: Richard Childress Racing No. 3 (Austin Dillon)
Front Row Motorsports No. 4
Noah Gragson, Front Row Motorsports Ford
Photo by: David Jensen / Getty Images
This charter was most recently associated with the No. 4 car driven by Noah Gragson. From its inception to the 2024 season, it was attached to the Stewart-Haas Racing No. 4 car driven by Kevin Harvick and then Josh Berry. It was sold to Front Row Motorsports in 2024 but approval for the transaction had to be forced by a federal judge as part of a preliminary injunction decision as the organization had sued NASCAR late in the summer. NASCAR appealed the injunction decision and won, which left the charter in a state of limbo until the legal process plays itself out.
Awarded: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 4 2016: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 4 (Kevin Harvick) 2017: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 4 (Kevin Harvick) 2018: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 4 (Kevin Harvick) 2019: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 4 (Kevin Harvick) 2020: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 4 (Kevin Harvick) 2021: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 4 (Kevin Harvick) 2022: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 4 (Kevin Harvick) 2023: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 4 (Kevin Harvick) 2024: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 4 (Josh Berry) 2025: Front Row Motorsports No. 4 (Noah Gragson)
Hendrick Motorsports No. 24
William Byron, Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet
Photo by: Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images
This charter is currently owned by Hendrick Motorsports and associated with the No. 24 car driven by William Byron. It was first awarded to Hendrick in 2016 when it was the No. 5 piloted by Kasey Kahne and became the No. 24 when William Byron graduated to the Cup Series in 2018.
This charter is currently owned by Team Penske and associated with the No. 12 car driven by Ryan Blaney.
It was first awarded to Roush Fenway Racing in 2016 when it was the No. 6 piloted by Trevor Bayne and became the No. 37 when Chris Buescher was leased to JTG Daughery Racing by Roush-Fenway alongside the charter in 2017. It was returned to Roush Fenway after the 2017 season and sold to Team Penske where it was used to create the third car for Blaney.
Awarded: Roush Fenway Racing No. 6 2016: Roush Fenway Racing No. 6 (Trevor Bayne) 2017: Roush Fenway Racing No. 6 (Trevor Bayne) 2018: JTG Daugherty Racing No. 37 (Chris Buescher) 2019: Team Penske No. 12 (Ryan Blaney) 2020: Team Penske No. 12 (Ryan Blaney) 2021: Team Penske No. 12 (Ryan Blaney) 2022: Team Penske No. 12 (Ryan Blaney) 2023: Team Penske No. 12 (Ryan Blaney) 2024: Team Penske No. 12 (Ryan Blaney) 2025: Team Penske No. 12 (Ryan Blaney)
Kaulig Racing No. 16
AJ Allmendinger, Kaulig Racing Chevrolet
Photo by: Jeffrey Vest / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
This charter is currently owned by Kaulig Racing and linked to the No. 16 car. It was first awarded to Tommy Baldwin Racing in 2016 when it was the No. 7 piloted by Reed Sorenson and became the No. 95 in 2017 when it was sold to Leavine Family Racing. It was sold again before the 2020 season to Spire Motorsports and sold once more to Kaulig before the 2022 season.
Awarded: Tommy Baldwin Racing No. 7 2016: Tommy Baldwin Racing No. 7 (Regan Smith) 2017: Leavine Family Racing No. 95 (Michael McDowell) 2018: Leavine Family Racing No. 95 (Kasey Kahne) 2019: Leavine Family Racing No. 95 (Matt DiBenedetto) 2020: Leavine Family Racing No. 95 (Christopher Bell) 2021: Spire Motorsports No. 77 (Various) 2022: Kaulig Racing No. 16 (Various) 2023: Kaulig Racing No. 16 (AJ Allmendinger) 2024: Kaulig Racing No. 16 (Various) 2025: Kaulig Racing No. 16 (AJ Allmendinger)
Legacy Motor Club No. 42
John Hunter Nemechek, Legacy Motor Club Toyota
Photo by: Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images
This charter is currently owned by Legacy Motor Club and associated with the No. 42 car driven by John Hunter Nemechek. It was first awarded to Richard Petty Motorsports in 2016 when it was the No. 9. It became the No. 44 when it was piloted by Brian Scott.
It became the No. 32 in 2017 when it was leased to GoFas Racing. It was returned to Richard Petty Motorsports in 2018 and became the No. 43 for Bubba Wallace. It became the Petty Ware Motorsports No. 51 when Petty and Rick Ware Racing entered into a joint agreement to field the No. 51.
It became the No. 42 when Richard Petty Motorsports sold to GMS Racing to become Petty GMS and remained the No. 42 when Jimmie Johnson bought into the team and renamed it Legacy Motor Club. Nemechek has driven the car since 2024.
Awarded: Richard Petty Motorsports No. 9 2016: Richard Petty Motorsports No. 44 (Brian Scott) 2017: GoFas Racing No. 32 (Matt DiBenedetto) 2018: Richard Petty Motorsports No. 43 (Bubba Wallace) 2019: Petty Ware Racing No. 51 (Various) 2020: Petty Ware Racing No. 51 (Various) 2021: Petty Ware Racing No. 51 (Cody Shane Ware) 2022: Petty GMS Racing No. 42 (Ty Dillon) 2023: Legacy Motor Club No. 42 (Noah Gragson) 2024: Legacy Motor Club No. 42 (John Hunter Nemechek) 2025: Legacy Motor Club No. 42 (John Hunter Nemechek)
23XI Racing No. 35
Riley Herbst, 23XI Racing Toyota
Photo by: Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images
This charter was most recently owned by 23XI Racing and is associated with the No. 35 car driven by Riley Herbst. From its inception to the 2024 season, it was attached to the Stewart-Haas Racing No. 10 car driven by Danica Patrick, Aric Almirola and then Noah Gragson. It was sold to 23XI Racing in 2024 but approval for the transaction had to be forced by a federal judge as part of a preliminary injunction decision as the organization had sued NASCAR late in the summer. NASCAR appealed the injunction decision and won, which left the charter in a state of limbo until the legal process plays itself out.
Awarded: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 10 2016: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 10 (Danica Patrick) 2017: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 10 (Danica Patrick) 2018: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 10 (Aric Almirola) 2019: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 10 (Aric Almirola) 2020: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 10 (Aric Almirola) 2021: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 10 (Aric Almirola) 2022: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 10 (Aric Almirola) 2023: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 10 (Aric Almirola) 2024: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 10 (Noah Gragson) 2025: 23XI Racing No. 35 (Riley Herbst)
Joe Gibbs Racing No. 11
Denny Hamlin, Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota
Photo by: James Gilbert / Getty Images
This charter is currently owned by Joe Gibbs Racing and associated with the No. 11 car driven by Denny Hamlin. It has always been aligned with this combination.
Awarded: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 11 2016: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 11 (Denny Hamlin) 2017: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 11 (Denny Hamlin) 2018: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 11 (Denny Hamlin) 2019: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 11 (Denny Hamlin) 2020: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 11 (Denny Hamlin) 2021: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 11 (Denny Hamlin) 2022: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 11 (Denny Hamlin) 2023: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 11 (Denny Hamlin) 2024: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 11 (Denny Hamlin) 2025: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 11 (Denny Hamlin)
23XI Racing No. 23
Bubba Wallace, 23XI Racing Toyota
Photo by: James Gilbert / Getty Images
This charter was most recently owned by 23XI Racing and associated with the No. 23 car driven by Bubba Wallace. This charter had been owned by Germain Racing for its No. 13 car every year until 2021 when it was sold to Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan. In 2025, as part of a 23XI antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR, an appeals court ruled that the team could not maintain its chartered status while also suing the Sanctioning Body over language contained within the document, which left the charter in a state of limbo until the legal process plays itself out.
Awarded: Germain Racing No. 13 2016: Germain Racing No. 13 (Casey Mears) 2017: Germain Racing No. 13 (Ty Dillon) 2018: Germain Racing No. 13 (Ty Dillon) 2019: Germain Racing No. 13 (Ty Dillon) 2020: Germain Racing No. 13 (Ty Dillon) 2021: 23XI Racing No. 23 (Bubba Wallace) 2022: 23XI Racing No. 23 (Bubba Wallace) 2023: 23XI Racing No. 23 (Bubba Wallace) 2024: 23XI Racing No. 23 (Bubba Wallace) 2025: 23XI Racing No. 23 (Bubba Wallace)
Trackhouse Racing No. 88
Shane van Gisbergen, Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet
Photo by: Meg Oliphant / Getty Images
This charter is currently owned by Trackhouse Racing for its No. 88 car and driver Shane Van Gisbergen. From its inception to the 2024 season, it was attached to the Stewart-Haas Racing No. 14 car driven by Tony Stewart, Clint Bowyer and then Chase Briscoe. It was then sold to Trackhouse Racing ahead of Stewart-Haas Racing closing after the 2024 season.
Awarded: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 14 2016: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 14 (Tony Stewart) 2017: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 14 (Clint Bowyer) 2018: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 14 (Clint Bowyer) 2019: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 14 (Clint Bowyer) 2020: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 14 (Clint Bowyer) 2021: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 14 (Chase Briscoe) 2022: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 14 (Chase Briscoe) 2023: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 14 (Chase Briscoe) 2024: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 14 (Chase Briscoe) 2025: Trackhouse Racing No. 88 (Shane Van Gisbergen)
Haas Factory Team No. 41
Cole Custer, Haas Factory Team Ford
Photo by: Samuel Corum / Getty Images
This charter is currently owned by Haas Factory Team and has been associated with the No. 41 car for almost the entirety of its existence. It was originally awarded to Michael Waltrip Racing and was immediately sold to Stewart Haas Racing. The car was driven by Kurt Busch from 2016-2018, Daniel Suarez in 2019, Cole Custer from 2020-2022. When Stewart-Haas Racing closed and downsized into Haas Factory Team, it retained this charter and the No. 41 branding.
Awarded: Michael Waltrip Racing No. 15 2016: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 41 (Kurt Busch) 2017: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 41 (Kurt Busch) 2018: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 41 (Kurt Busch) 2019: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 41 (Daniel Suarez) 2020: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 41 (Cole Custer) 2021: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 41 (Cole Custer) 2022: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 41 (Cole Custer) 2023: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 41 (Ryan Preece) 2024: Stewart-Haas Racing No. 41 (Ryan Preece) 2025: Haas Factory Team No. 41 (Cole Custer)
RFK Racing No. 6
Brad Keselowski, Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing Ford
Photo by: Sean Gardner / Getty Images
What is currently the Roush Fenway Keselowski No. 6 was awarded to Roush Fenway Racing as the No. 16 and was renumbered when that car was shut down and its charter leased to JTG Daugherty Racing. Roush Fenway made what was the No. 16 car the No. 6 car for charter purposes and it has remained that way even through the addition of Brad Keselowski as an owner-driver before the start of the 2022 season.
Awarded: Roush Fenway Racing No. 16 2016: Roush Fenway Racing No. 16 (Greg Biffle) 2017: Roush Fenway Racing No. 6 (Trevor Bayne) 2018: Roush Fenway Racing No. 6 (Trevor Bayne, Matt Kenseth) 2019: Roush Fenway Racing No. 6 (Ryan Newman) 2020: Roush Fenway Racing No. 6 (Ryan Newman) 2021: Roush Fenway Racing No. 6 (Ryan Newman) 2022: RFK Racing No. 6 (Brad Keselowski) 2023: RFK Racing No. 6 (Brad Keselowski) 2024: RFK Racing No. 6 (Brad Keselowski) 2025: RFK Racing No. 6 (Brad Keselowski)
RFK Racing No. 17
Chris Buescher, Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing Ford
Photo by: Jonathan Bachman – Getty Images
This charter is currently owned by Roush Fenway Racing and associated with the No. 17 car driven by Ricky Stenhouse Jr. from 2016-2019 and Chris Buescher ever since. It has always been attached to team co-owner Jack Roush from its inception.
Awarded: Roush Fenway Racing No. 17 2016: Roush Fenway Racing No. 17 (Ricky Stenhouse Jr.) 2017: Roush Fenway Racing No. 17 (Ricky Stenhouse Jr.) 2018: Roush Fenway Racing No. 17 (Ricky Stenhouse Jr.) 2019: Roush Fenway Racing No. 17 (Ricky Stenhouse Jr.) 2020: Roush Fenway Racing No. 17 (Chris Buescher) 2021: Roush Fenway Racing No. 17 (Chris Buescher) 2022: RFK Racing No. 17 (Chris Buescher) 2023: RFK Racing No. 17 (Chris Buescher) 2024: RFK Racing No. 17 (Chris Buescher) 2025: RFK Racing No. 17 (Chris Buescher)
Joe Gibbs Racing No. 54
Ty Gibbs, Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota
Photo by: Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images
This charter is currently owned by Joe Gibbs Racing and associated with the No. 54 car driven by Ty Gibbs. It began its life as the Joe Gibbs Racing No. 18 with Kyle Busch from 2016 until the 2023 season when Ty Gibbs joined the team and the car renumbered as 54.
Awarded: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 18 2016: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 18 (Kyle Busch) 2017: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 18 (Kyle Busch) 2018: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 18 (Kyle Busch) 2019: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 18 (Kyle Busch) 2020: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 18 (Kyle Busch) 2021: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 18 (Kyle Busch) 2022: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 18 (Kyle Busch) 2023: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 54 (Ty Gibbs) 2024: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 54 (Ty Gibbs) 2025: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 54 (Ty Gibbs)
Joe Gibbs Racing No. 20
Christopher Bell, Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota
Photo by: Sean Gardner / Getty Images
This charter is currently owned by Joe Gibbs Racing and associated with the No. 20 car driven by Christopher Bell. This entry was previously piloted by Matt Kenseth and Erik Jones.
Awarded: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 20 2016: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 20 (Matt Kenseth) 2017: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 20 (Matt Kenseth) 2018: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 20 (Erik Jones) 2019: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 20 (Erik Jones) 2020: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 20 (Erik Jones) 2021: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 20 (Christopher Bell) 2022: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 20 (Christopher Bell) 2023: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 20 (Christopher Bell) 2024: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 20 (Christopher Bell) 2025: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 20 (Christopher Bell)
Team Penske No. 22
Joey Logano, Team Penske Ford
Photo by: Meg Oliphant / Getty Images
This charter is currently owned by Team Penske and associated with the No. 22 car with Joey Logano. It has always been aligned with this combination.
Awarded: Team Penske No. 22 2016: Team Penske No. 22 (Joey Logano) 2017: Team Penske No. 22 (Joey Logano) 2018: Team Penske No. 22 (Joey Logano) 2019: Team Penske No. 22 (Joey Logano) 2020: Team Penske No. 22 (Joey Logano) 2021: Team Penske No. 22 (Joey Logano) 2022: Team Penske No. 22 (Joey Logano) 2023: Team Penske No. 22 (Joey Logano) 2024: Team Penske No. 22 (Joey Logano) 2025: Team Penske No. 22 (Joey Logano)
Spire Racing No. 7
Justin Haley, Spire Motorsports Chevrolet
Photo by: Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images
This charter is currently owned by Spire Motorsports and associated with the No. 7 car. It was first awarded to BK Racing in 2016 when it was the No. 23 piloted by David and became the No. 38 when it was sold to Front Row Motorsports in 2019. It became the No. 53 when Front Row leased it to Rick Ware Racing in 2020. Front Row then sold the charter to Rick Ware Racing and it remained the No. 53. It was then sold to Spire Motorsports before the 2022 season to become the No. 7 driven by Corey Lajoie. Justin Haley took over the car in September of 2024 and will continue piloting it in 2025.
Awarded: BK Racing No. 23 2016: BK Racing No. 23 (David Ragan) 2017: BK Racing No. 23 (Various) 2018: BK Racing No. 23 (Various) 2019: Front Row Motorsports No. 38 (David Ragan) 2020: Rick Ware Racing No. 53 (Various) 2021: Rick Ware Racing No. 53 (Various) 2022: Spire Motorsports No. 7 (Corey Lajoie) 2023: Spire Motorsports No. 7 (Corey Lajoie) 2024: Spire Motorsports No. 7 (Corey Lajoie) 2025: Spire Motorsports No. 7 (Justin Haley)
Hendrick Motosports No. 9
Chase Elliott, Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet
Photo by: Sean Gardner / Getty Images
This charter is currently owned by Hendrick Motorsports and associated with the No. 9 car driven by Chase Elliott. It was first awarded to Hendrick in 2016 when it was the No. 24. It became the No. 9 when William Byron was assigned the No. 24 in 2018.
What began its existence as the Richard Childress Racing No. 27 was leased to upstart StarCom Racing in 2018 and sold to the team a year later. StarCom Racing sold the No. 00 charter to 23XI Racing’s No. 45 team for 2022 for driver Kurt Busch. The car is now piloted by Tyler Reddick. In 2025, as part of a 23XI antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR, an appeals court ruled that the team could not maintain its chartered status while also suing the Sanctioning Body over language contained within the document, which left the charter in a state of limbo until the legal process plays itself out.
Awarded: Richard Childress Racing No. 27 2016: Richard Childress Racing No. 27 (Paul Menard) 2017: Richard Childress Racing No. 27 (Paul Menard) 2018: StarCom Racing No. 00 (Landon Cassill) 2019: StarCom Racing No. 00 (Various) 2020: StarCom Racing No. 00 (Quin Houff) 2021: StarCom Racing No. 00 (Quin Houff) 2022: 23XI Racing No. 45 (Kurt Busch) 2023: 23XI Racing No. 45 (Tyler Reddick) 2024: 23XI Racing No. 45 (Tyler Reddick) 2025: 23XI Racing No. 45 (Tyler Reddick)
Richard Childress Racing No. 8
Kyle Busch, Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet
Photo by: Meg Oliphant / Getty Images
This charter is currently owned by Richard Childress Racing and associated with the No. 8 car with Kyle Busch. It was first awarded to Childress in 2016 when it was the No. 31. It became the No. 8 when Daniel Hemric was assigned the car in 2019. Tyler Reddick drove it from 2020-2022. Kyle Busch started driving the car with the 2023 season.
Awarded: Richard Childress Racing No. 31 2016: Richard Childress Racing No. 31 (Ryan Newman) 2017: Richard Childress Racing No. 31 (Ryan Newman) 2018: Richard Childress Racing No. 31 (Ryan Newman) 2019: Richard Childress Racing No. 8 (Daniel Hemric) 2020: Richard Childress Racing No. 8 (Tyler Reddick) 2021: Richard Childress Racing No. 8 (Tyler Reddick) 2022: Richard Childress Racing No. 8 (Tyler Reddick) 2023: Richard Childress Racing No. 8 (Kyle Busch) 2024: Richard Childress Racing No. 8 (Kyle Busch) 2025: Richard Childress Racing No. 8 (Kyle Busch)
Wood Brothers Racing No. 21
Josh Berry, Wood Brothers Racing Ford
Photo by: Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images
What began its existence as the GoFas Racing No. 32 was first leased to Wood Brothers Racing in 2017. That charter was then sold to the Wood Brothers in 2018 albeit with GoFas owner Archie St. Hilaire maintaining a partial ownership of the franchise. The Wood Brothers purchased complete control of their charter prior to the 2021 season. Matt DiBenedetto drove it the car in 2020 and 2021 and Harrison Burton piloted the car from 2022 to 2024. Josh Berry was hired to drive the car in 2025.
Awarded: GoFas Racing No. 32 2016: GoFas Racing No. 32 (Matt DiBenedetto) 2017: Wood Brothers Racing No. 21 (Ryan Blaney) 2018: Wood Brothers Racing No. 21 (Paul Menard) 2019: Wood Brothers Racing No. 21 (Paul Menard) 2020: Wood Brothers Racing No. 21 (Matt DiBenedetto) 2021: Wood Brothers Racing No. 21 (Matt DiBenedetto) 2022: Wood Brothers Racing No. 21 (Harrison Burton) 2023: Wood Brothers Racing No. 21 (Harrison Burton) 2024: Wood Brothers Racing No. 21 (Harrison Burton) 2025: Wood Brothers Racing No. 21 (Josh Berry)
Spire Motorsports No. 71
Michael McDowell, Spire Motorsports Chevrolet
Photo by: Sean Gardner / Getty Images
This is the charter with the most convoluted ownership history. What will soon be the Spire Motorsports No. 71 was first awarded to Joe Falk of Circle Sport Racing in 2016. Falk immediately entered into a partnership with Leavine Family Racing to operate the No. 95 for the 2016 season. In 2017, Falk entered into a new agreement with The Motorsports Group with Curtis Key’s No. 33 team. From 2018-2020, Joe Falk was a partner with Archie St. Hilaire of GoFas Motorsports’ No. 32 team. Falk then joined Live Fast Motorsports in 2021 when that team was launched by Matt Tifft and BJ McLeod. McLeod, Tifft and Falk then sold the charter to Spire Motorsports for its No. 71 and driver Zane Smith, who was on loan from Trackhouse Racing that season. Michael McDowell was hired to drive the car starting in 2025, returning to a charter he raced under in 2016 with LFR.
Awarded: Circle Sport No. 33 2016: Leavine Family Racing No. 95 (Michael McDowell, Ty Dillon) 2017: The Motorsports Group No. 33 (Various) 2018: GoFas Racing No. 32 (Matt DiBenedetto) 2019: GoFas Racing No. 32 (Corey Lajoie) 2020: GoFas Racing No. 32 (Corey Lajoie) 2021: Live Fast Motorsports No. 78 (Various) 2022: Live Fast Motorsports No. 78 (Various) 2023: Live Fast Motorsports No. 78 (Various) 2024: Spire Motorsports No. 71 (Zane Smith) 2025: Spire Motorsports No. 71 (Michael McDowell)
Front Row Motorsports No. 34
Todd Gilliland, Front Row Motorsports Ford
Photo by: Chris Graythen – Getty Images
This charter has always been owned by Front Row Motorsports and associated with the No. 34 car driven by Chris Buescher, Landon Cassill, Michael McDowell and now Todd Gilliland during their respective stints. In 2025, as part of a Front Row antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR, an appeals court ruled that the team could not maintain its chartered status while also suing the Sanctioning Body over language contained within the document, which left the charter in a state of limbo until the legal process plays itself out.
Awarded: Front Row Motorsports No. 35 2016: Front Row Motorsports No. 34 (Chris Buscher) 2017: Front Row Motorsports No. 34 (Landon Cassill) 2018: Front Row Motorsports No. 34 (Michael McDowell) 2019: Front Row Motorsports No. 34 (Michael McDowell) 2020: Front Row Motorsports No. 34 (Michael McDowell) 2021: Front Row Motorsports No. 34 (Michael McDowell) 2022: Front Row Motorsports No. 34 (Michael McDowell) 2023: Front Row Motorsports No. 34 (Michael McDowell) 2024: Front Row Motorsports No. 34 (Michael McDowell) 2025: Front Row Motorsports No. 34 (Todd Gilliland)
Rick Ware Racing No. 51
Cody Ware, Rick Ware Racing Ford
Photo by: Sean Gardner / Getty Images
What is now the Rick Ware Racing No. 51 was originally awarded to Front Row Motorsports as the No. 38. Front Row leased the charter to Tri-Star Motorsports in 2018 and sold it to Rick Ware Racing prior to the 2019 season where it has remained ever since. The No. 52 became the No. 27 for 2020. The No. 27 team became the No. 52 for 2021. The No. 52 became the No. 51 for 20220. The team constantly shuffled numbers to avoid the charter becoming at risk of being repossed for performance. Justin Haley drove the car in 2024 and Ware returned to the ride in 2025.
Awarded: Front Row Motorsports No. 38 2016: Front Row Motorsports No. 38 (Landon Cassill) 2017: Front Row Motorsports No. 38 (David Ragan) 2018: TriStar Motorsports No. 34 (Corey Lajoie, Cole Whitt) 2019: Rick Ware Racing No. 52 (Various) 2020: Rick Ware Racing No. 27 (Various) 2021: Rick Ware Racing No. 51 (Cody Ware) 2022: Rick Ware Racing No. 51 (Cody Ware) 2023: Rick Ware Racing No. 51 (Various) 2024: Rick Ware Racing No. 51 (Justin Haley) 2025: Rick Ware Racing No. 51 (Cody Ware)
Trackhouse Racing No. 99
Daniel Suarez, Trackhouse Chevrolet
Photo by: Sean Gardner / Getty Images
This charter is currently owned by Trackhouse Racing and is associated with the No. 99 car driven by Daniel Suarez. It was first awarded to Chip Ganassi Racing in 2016 when it was piloted by Kyle Larson who drove the car until April 2020. Matt Kenseth drove it for the remainder of that season. Ross Chastain drive the No. 42 in 2021 when the team was sold to Trackhouse Racing. Trackhouse retained Chastain and moved him to the No. 1 chartered entry. It signed Daniel Suarez to take over the renumbered No. 99.
Awarded: Chip Ganassi Racing No. 42 2016: Chip Ganassi Racing No. 42 (Kyle Larson) 2017: Chip Ganassi Racing No. 42 (Kyle Larson) 2018: Chip Ganassi Racing No. 42 (Kyle Larson) 2019: Chip Ganassi Racing No. 42 (Kyle Larson) 2020: Chip Ganassi Racing No. 42 (Kyle Larson, Matt Kenseth) 2021: Chip Ganassi Racing No. 42 (Ross Chastain) 2022: Trackhouse Racing No. 99 (Daniel Suarez) 2023: Trackhouse Racing No. 99 (Daniel Suarez) 2024: Trackhouse Racing No. 99 (Daniel Suarez) 2025: Trackhouse Racing No. 99 (Daniel Suarez)
Legacy Motor Club No. 43
Erik Jones, LEGACY MOTOR CLUB Toyota
Photo by: Jared C. Tilton / Getty Images
What is now the No. 43 Legacy Motor Club charter began its life as the Richard Petty Motorsports No. 43 and was once leased to Rick Ware Racing in 2018 but returned to RPM the following season. Richard Petty Motorsports was purchased by GMS Racing to make the No. 43 charter belong to Petty GMS Racing for the 2022 season and then became the Legacy Motor Club No. 43 when Jimmie Johnson purchased a stake in Petty GMS before the 2023 season. Erik Jones has driven the car across its various ownership structures since the 2021 season.
Awarded: Richard Petty Motorsports No. 43 2016: Richard Petty Motorsports No. 43 (Aric Almirola) 2017: Richard Petty Motorsports No. 43 (Aric Almirola) 2018: Rick Ware Racing No. 52 (Various) 2019: Richard Petty Motorsports No. 43 (Bubba Wallace) 2020: Richard Petty Motorsports No. 43 (Bubba Wallace) 2021: Richard Petty Motorsports No. 43 (Erik Jones) 2022: Petty GMS Racing No. 43 (Erik Jones) 2023: Legacy Motor Club No. 43 (Erik Jones) 2024: Legacy Motor Club No. 43 (Erik Jones) 2025: Legacy Motor Club No. 43 (Erik Jones)
HYAK Racing No. 47
Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Hyak Motorsports Chevrolet
Photo by: James Gilbert / Getty Images
This charter is currently owned by HYAK Racing and has always been associated with the No. 47 car under its various ownership combinations. It was first awarded to JTG-Daugherty Racing in 2016 when it was driven by AJ Allmendinger who drove the car until 2018. Ryan Preece drove it in 2019. Ricky Stenhouse Jr. has driven it since 2020. Gordon Smith rebranded the team has HYAK Racing ahead of the 2025 season with the formal departure of team co-founders Tad and Jodi Geschickter.
Awarded: JTG-Daugherty Racing No. 47 2016: JTG-Daugherty Racing No. 47 (AJ Allmendinger) 2017: JTG-Daugherty Racing No. 47 (AJ Allmendinger) 2018: JTG-Daugherty Racing No. 47 (AJ Allmendinger) 2019: JTG-Daugherty Racing No. 47 (Ryan Preece) 2020: JTG-Daugherty Racing No. 47 (Ricky Stenhouse) 2021: JTG-Daugherty Racing No. 47 (Ricky Stenhouse) 2022: JTG-Daugherty Racing No. 47 (Ricky Stenhouse) 2023: JTG-Daugherty Racing No. 47 (Ricky Stenhouse) 2024: JTG-Daugherty Racing No. 47 (Ricky Stenhouse) 2025: HYAK Racing No. 47 (Ricky Stenhouse)
Hendrick Motorsports No. 5
Kyle Larson, Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet
Photo by: Sean Gardner / Getty Images
This charter is currently owned by Hendrick Motorsports and associated with the No. 5 car driven by Kyle Larson. It was first awarded to Hendrick in 2016 when it was the No. 48 driven by Jimmie Johnson. It became the No. 5 when Jimmie Johnson retired and his No. 48 was assigned to Alex Bowman. The No. 5 has the lineage of the No. 48 and the final crew that worked with Johnson at Hendrick. Alex Bowman is driving the No. 48 in number only as it is just a rebranded No. 88.
This charter was originally assigned to HScott Motorsports in 2016. Clint Bowyer drove the No. 15 that season. It was sold to Jay Robinson’s Premium Motorsports outfit in 2017 and remained with that team until it was purchased by Rick Ware Racing in advance of the 2021 season. The charter was leased to RFK Racing ahead of the 2025 season for driver Ryan Preece. It will be returned to Ware after the season.
Awarded: HScott Motorsports No. 15 2016: HScott Motorsports No. 15 (Clint Bowyer) 2017: Premium Motorsports No. 15 (Various) 2018: Premium Motorsports No. 15 (Ross Chastain, Justin Marks) 2019: Premium Motorsports No. 15 (Ross Chastain) 2020: Premium Motorsports No. 15 (Brennan Poole) 2021: Rick Ware Racing No. 15 (Various) 2022: Rick Ware Racing No. 15 (Various) 2023: Rick Ware Racing No. 15 (Various) 2024: Rick Ware Racing No. 15 (Various) 2025: RFK Racing No. 60 (Ryan Preece)
Joe Gibbs Racing No. 19
Chase Briscoe, Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota
Photo by: Samuel Corum / Getty Images
This charter is currently owned by Joe Gibbs Racing and has been associated with the No. 19 car for almost the entirety of its existence. It was originally awarded to Michael Waltrip Racing and Immediately sold to Joe Gibbs Racing. The car was driven by Carl Edwards from 2016, Daniel Suarez in 2017 and 2018 and Martin Truex Jr. since 2019. Chase Briscoe has been signed to drive the car starting in 2025.
Awarded: Michael Waltrip Racing No. 55 2016: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 19 (Carl Edwards) 2017: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 19 (Daniel Suarez) 2018: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 19 (Daniel Suarez) 2019: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 19 (Martin Truex Jr.) 2020: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 19 (Martin Truex Jr.) 2021: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 19 (Martin Truex Jr.) 2022: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 19 (Martin Truex Jr.) 2023: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 19 (Martin Truex Jr.) 2024: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 19 (Martin Truex Jr.) 2025: Joe Gibbs Racing No. 19 (Chase Briscoe)
Spire Motorsports No. 77
Carson Hocevar, Spire Motorsports Chevrolet
Photo by: Meg Oliphant / Getty Images
What is now the Spire Motorsports No. 77 charter began its life as the Jay Robinson owned No. 62. It was immediately leased to HScott Motorsports in 2016. It was sold to Furniture Row Racing so that organization could field a second car for Erik Jones in 2017. It was sold again in 2018 to former Xfinty Series team owner Todd Braun who immediately entered into an agreement with JTG Daugherty Racing to continue fielding the No. 37. That relationship expired after three years and Braun took the charter to Spire Motorsports in advance of the 2021 season. Braun is no longer part of the ownership group and Spire owns the 77 charter entirely. Carson Hocevar has driven the entry since 2024.
What is now the Kaulig Racing No. 10 began its life as the Furniture Row Racing No. 78 charter. It was sold to Spire Motorsports in 2019 when Furniture Row Racing went out of business and leased to Trackhouse Racing in advance of the 2021 season. Spire then sold the charter to Kaulig Racing for the 2022 season where it has been associated with the No. 31 from 2022 to 2024 with drivers Justin Haley and Daniel Hemric. Rebranded as the No. 10, Ty Dillon will drive the car in 2025.
Awarded: Furniture Row Racing No. 78 2016: Furniture Row Racing No. 78 (Martin Truex Jr) 2017: Furnitire Row Racing No. 78 (Martin Truex Jr) 2018: Furniture Row Racing No. 78 (Martin Truex Jr) 2019: Spire Motorsports No. 77 (Various) 2020: Spire Motorsports No. 77 (Various) 2021: Trackhouse Racing No. 99 (Daniel Suarez) 2022: Kaulig Racing No. 31 (Justin Haley) 2023: Kaulig Racing No. 31 (Justin Haley) 2024: Kaulig Racing No. 31 (Daniel Hemric) 2025: Kaulig Racing No. 10 (Ty Dillon)
Front Row Motorsports No. 38
Zane Smith, Front Row Motorsports Ford
Photo by: James Gilbert / Getty Images
What is currently the Front Row Motorsports No. 38 charter was first awarded to BK Racing. BK Racing leased it to TriStar Racing in 2017 to run the No. 72. It was sold to Front Row in 2018 after BK Racing filed for Bankruptcy where the charter has remained ever since. Todd Gilliland drove the car from the 2022 season until 2024. Zane Smith will drive the car starting with the 2025 season. In 2025, as part of a Front Row antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR, an appeals court ruled that the team could not maintain its chartered status while also suing the Sanctioning Body over language contained within the document, which left the charter in a state of limbo until the legal process plays itself out.
Awarded: BK Racing No. 83 2016: BK Racing No. 83 (Matt DiBenedetto) 2017: TriStar No. 72 (Cole Whitt) 2018: Front Row Motorsports No. 38 (David Ragan) 2019: Front Row Motorsports No. 38 (Matt Tifft) 2020: Front Row Motorsports No. 38 (John Hunter Nemechek) 2021: Front Row Motorsports No. 38 (Anthony Alfredo) 2022: Front Row Motorsports No. 38 (Todd Gilliland) 2023: Front Row Motorsports No. 38 (Todd Gilliland) 2024: Front Row Motorsports No. 38 (Todd Gilliland) 2025: Front Row Motorsports No. 38 (Zane Smith)
Hendrick Motorsports No. 48
Alex Bowman, Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet
Photo by: Sean Gardner / Getty Images
This charter is currently owned by Hendrick Motorsports and associated with the No. 48 car driven by Alex Bowman. It was first awarded to Hendrick in 2016 when it was the No. 88 driven by Dale Earnhardt Jr. It became the No. 48 when Jimmie Johnson retired and Bowman’s team, then racing under the No. 88 banner, was reassigned No. 48.
The NASCAR world has been hit by tragedy once again with the news that Racing America Chief Operating Officer Michael Printup has died.
He was 60.
Per Racing America on SI, Printup spent 30 years working in NASCAR, including 15 as the track president at Watkins Glen International Speedway.
“Watkins Glen International is saddened by the passing for former President Michael Printup, who led the facility for 15 years,” Watkins Glen shared on X. “During his tenure, Michael played a key role in the continued growth and success of Watkins Glen International, helping to strengthen its operations, partnerships, and standing with the motorsports industry while honoring the venue’s storied history.
“Michael was a respected leader who left a lasting impact on the organization and those who worked alongside him. We extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.”
The Racing America account on X called Printup “a true motorsports icon and friend.”
“His passing and leadership shaped our sports and will never be forgotten,” the account added.
Printup is the fifth person with NASCAR ties to die since the start of December, joining former drivers Michael Annett, 39, Nick Joanides, 55, and Greg Biffle, 55 as well as Dennis Hamlin, 75, the father of driver Denny Hamlin.
Prior to Printup’s passing, Hamlin’s death was the most recent after he was killed in a house fire on Sunday in North Carolina. His wife, Mary Lou Hamlin, 69, has been hospitalized after sustaining burns in the tragedy.
Meanwhile, Biffle was killed along with his family and some friends when his plane crashed on Dec. 18 at the Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina.
Biffle’s Cessna 550 was reportedly attempting to land at around 10:15 a.m. at the airport just outside of Charlotte when the crash occurred.
Biffle had a 16-year career behind the wheel in the NASCAR Cup Series, starting 515 races and winning 19. He had 175 top ten finishes.
His last race with the series came in the 2022 Geico 500 in Talladega.
Biffle also drove 244 races on the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. He won 20 of those and logged 149 more top 10 finishes. He also was behind the wheel for 83 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series races, winning 17 of those with 55 top 10 finishes.
His death followed the passing of Nick Joanides on Dec. 5 and Michael Annett on Dec. 2.
Joanides, 55, was a star on the West Coast scene most recently making three starts in the ARCA West Series. He also drove in the NASCAR Xfinity Series when it was called the Nationwide Series.
Annett, 39, drove for JR Motorsports from 2017 through 2021 and the team shared the news of his death on social media.
A native of Des Moines, Iowa, Annett was behind the wheel for 106 NASCAR Cup Series races, but never managed to finish in the top 10. While his results at that level were not eye-popping, Yahoo Sports noted he drove for a pair of “underfunded teams” in Tommy Baldwin Racing and HScott Racing.
Annett had more success on the Xfinity Series where he drove in 321 races with 95 top-10 finishes. His lone win came in the 2019 NASCAR Racing Experience 300 at Daytona International Speedway.
He also drove in nine NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series races with two top-10 finishes.
ARCAposted a statement on Xabout both the deaths of Joanides and Annett that read, “We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of ARCA Menards Series driver Michael Annett and ARCA Menards Series West driver Nick Joanides, both of whom passed away recently.”
CONCORD, NC, UNITED STATES, January 2, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Wheelhouse Motorsports today announced a new strategic partnership with Robert Noaker Racing (RNR), uniting two leading organizations known for their development of competitive Mustang racing programs. The collaboration brings together RNR’s championship-winning expertise with Wheelhouse’s operational strength, deep technical resources, and nationally recognized driver development capabilities.
Robert Noaker Racing enters the partnership following back-to-back Team and Driver Championships in 2024 and 2025, including a flawless 2025 Mustang Challenge season in which the Noaker-prepared car led every lap of every race. Wheelhouse Motorsports will integrate this proven technical knowledge with its own established infrastructure, including its GT4 Mustang program competing in the World Racing League (WRL).
Operations will be based at the Wheelhouse Motorsports facility located on the campus of Charlotte Motor Speedway. The Wheelhouse team, including the manager, engineering staff, and technical crew, brings over 100 years of combined motorsports experience to the program. At the track, competitors will also recognize familiar faces, as the RNR crew, led by Bob Noaker, will collaborate with Wheelhouse personnel to support all Mustang Challenge efforts. “As we continue to expand Wheelhouse Motorsports, this partnership represents a significant step forward,” said Dan McKeever, owner of Wheelhouse Motorsports. “Robert Noaker Racing has demonstrated exceptional proficiency in the Mustang Dark Horse R platform, and by combining that expertise with our operational systems and our long-standing commitment to driver development, we are well-positioned to deliver a next-level experience for our customers and competitors.”
The alliance leverages Wheelhouse’s roots in operating the Ford Performance Racing School, the nation’s premier performance driving school since 2006. The organization operates owner-experience programs for Ford and offers 1-day, 2-day, and Advanced high-performance driving courses, giving clients access to top-tier coaching and continuous development. Integrating this expertise with RNR’s race-winning preparation provides a comprehensive solution for drivers seeking a pathway into professional competition.
“This partnership allows both of our organizations to do what we do best,” said Robert Noaker, owner of Robert Noaker Racing. “Wheelhouse brings unmatched operational depth, driver training, and a world-class facility. When we combine that with the experience our team has developed running and winning with the Dark Horse R, we create a program built to elevate any driver who wants to compete at a higher level.”
Through this partnership, drivers have the following opportunities: – Lease a Mustang Dark Horse R for the entire 2026 Mustang Challenge season. – Contract Wheelhouse/RNR to maintain and operate their own cars. – Compete with Wheelhouse Motorsports in the WRL series, piloting a GTO-class Mustang GT4.
Wheelhouse Motorsports and Robert Noaker Racing look forward to delivering a comprehensive, competitive, and professionally supported environment for drivers seeking championship-caliber performance in 2026 and beyond.
Bill Johnson Wheelhouse +1 910-658-1447 email us here
Legal Disclaimer:
EIN Presswire provides this news content “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
There are a few deviations from recent years, but the local race calendar looks to be another strong one at Sebring International Raceway. As usual, much of the early action at the track will come in the form of preseason testing, some of it private team testing and other test days are sanctioned by the corresponding series.
The SSCA has a general test slated for Jan. 8, while the Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli will take over the track Jan. 21-22. IndyCar make its typical stop at Sebring on Feb. 9-10, where the cars test over the raceway’s short course.
The first event for fans will be the quick turnaround for the last major event held at Sebring, Historic Sportscar Racing’s Sebring Pistons & Props Presented by Alan Jay Automotive Network on Feb. 13-15.
The event will again feature a collection of top-notch vintage airplanes and cars for three days of action on and off the track. Tickets will go on sale shortly.
The season-opener for Sebring the past few years, the Trans Am Series, will now be the second event at SIR this season, running Feb. 26-March 1. The Trans Am races will again be run with the Sportscar Vintage Racing Association.
Trans Am will introduce the TA Sprint Championship at Sebring, a new series of five races that are 50 miles or 35 minutes. The series is designed to make it easier for club racers to make the move into a professional series.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to announce the TA Sprint Championship”, said Trans Am President Andy Lally. “With shorter races and a limited schedule, we believe that TA Sprint will be an exciting opportunity for non-pro club racers who want to experience a professional-level event with live streaming. With TA Sprint holding its own races, it’s a great first step for those who may want to eventually step up into our TA2 Pro/Am Challenge.”
March 18-21 brings the marquee event of the year, the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring, one of the top sportscar races in the world. There will be plenty of other racing action, with the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge Alan Jay Automotive Network 120, along with the Mustang Challenge, Lamborghini Super Trofeo and Porsche Carrera Cup North America races.
May 8-10 sees the return of SRO Motorsports and GT World Challenge America powered by AWS. The SRO series provide excellent GT racing and the races feature a handful of drivers who will be competing in the 12 Hours of Sebring.
There’s a bit of a lapse before the final big event of the season, the HSR Classic 12 Hour and Sebring Historics, which will feature some of the finest vintage sportscars still racing. The event is slated for Dec. 3-6. The Classic 12 Hour isn’t a 12-hour race, but rather 12 races for four different run groups, with the winner decided by cumulative time.
There will also be two appearances from the ChampCar Endurance Series, World Racing League and a number of club races, including the National Auto Sport Association Championships in September.
Chevrolet revealed its revised NASCAR Cup Series bodywork in November, shortly after Kyle Larson secured his second Cup championship at Phoenix. The updated body draws inspiration from a performance accessories package developed for the street-going version of the car. On track, the Camaro race body will now carry a taller hood dome, a reshaped front grille, and reworked rocker panels.
Chevrolet explained that those elements mirror the Carbon Performance Package Accessories Kit, which features carbon-fiber components on the hood and rockers, along with a new grille and front splitter. The changes have already sparked renewed belief inside the walls of Hendrick Motorsports.
According to Jeff Gordon, the updated Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 could prove transformative when it makes its competitive debut at the season-opening Cook Out Clash exhibition at Bowman Gray Stadium. The new body underwent on-track testing in November, and the early indicators seemingly left the organization encouraged.
“When you’ve done what we’ve done with our car and our teams and one of those things is winning a lot of races and winning a championship, I get really excited when I think we’ve got something that’s an upgrade. I don’t want to get too caught up in that because sometimes, it takes time to fine-tune that change.”
Gordon acknowledged that HMS had been trailing some rivals in aerodynamic efficiency, particularly when comparing HMS Chevrolet entries to competitors. With the revised body now in hand, he believes the gap has closed. “I feel like we’ve gotten ourselves on a level playing field with them, so I’m very excited about that,”he said.
Though the visual changes appear restrained, their purpose runs deeper because the engineers designed the refinements to enhance stability and trim drag, a combination that could sharpen performance as Chevrolet aims to extend its run of five consecutive manufacturer championships. Improved airflow management should translate into greater downforce and a steadier balance at speed.
Chevrolet first introduced the Camaro ZL1 to NASCAR competition in 2018, replacing the outgoing Chevy SS. The body evolved into the Camaro ZL1 1LE in 2020, before transitioning to a Next Gen version when the platform arrived in the Cup Series two years later. On the consumer side, Chevrolet closed the chapter on the passenger-car Camaro after the 2024 model year.
Dale Jr. is skeptical about the new Chevy model
While many teams welcome the update, Dale Earnhardt Jr. finds himself split between anticipation and caution. The JR Motorsports co-owner, who plans another Daytona 500 entry in 2026, admitted the announcement unsettled him. His unease does not stem from budget or preparation but from the uncertainty that accompanies a brand-new body.
From a financial perspective, Junior views the timing as favorable, offering a chance to compete without bleeding resources. Still, the unknowns are haunting. He noted that when manufacturers roll out a new body, early returns at Daytona rarely come easily. Teams must first learn how that shape behaves in race trim, and without inside knowledge of the finer details, he said he will have to take the results as they come.
History also supports his concern. Fresh body designs often force teams into an early-season learning curve, deciphering aerodynamic traits under pressure. The task extends beyond power or mechanical grip, demanding balance where airflow and stability intersect. Manufacturers also tend to prioritize intermediate tracks when refining new bodies, a reality that explains Junior’s apprehension heading into superspeedway competition.
On January 1, 2026, Roger Penske, the legendary founder of one of motorsport’s most enduring empires, released a deeply personal open letter to fans, marking the start of a year-long celebration of Team Penske’s 60th anniversary.
–by Mark Cipolloni–
The letter, penned in Penske’s characteristic straightforward and grateful tone, reflects on humble beginnings, unwavering fan support, and a commitment to future success—reminding everyone why “The Captain” has built a legacy that spans generations.
What began in 1966 as a modest operation in a small shop just outside Philadelphia has evolved into a powerhouse with over 650 major race wins, more than 700 pole positions, and 48 championships across IndyCar, NASCAR, IMSA, and beyond. Penske vividly recalls those early days: victories in the team’s first two outings—the 24 Hours of Daytona and 12 Hours of Sebring—set the stage for decades of dominance, all grounded in core values of integrity, respect, passion, hard work, and an unrelenting will to win.
Yet, amid recounting milestones like 20 Indianapolis 500 triumphs, five NASCAR Cup Series titles, three Daytona 500 wins, and recent back-to-back GTP championships with Porsche Penske Motorsport, Penske reserves his warmest words for the fans. “Your loyalty is unmatched, and your dedication is unparalleled,” he writes, calling supporters the “lifeblood” of the sport whose passion fuels the team through highs and lows.
He also emphasizes the human element—”our human capital”—crediting countless drivers, crew members, partners, and fans for the organization’s longevity. A poignant nod to his father introduces the guiding mantra: “Effort Equals Results,” a principle Penske vows will drive the team forward as they honor the past without resting on it.
The 2026 season promises to be unforgettable, with celebrations including retro paint schemes across entries in multiple series, a refreshed 60th anniversary logo on cars, uniforms, and merchandise, an elevated Team Penske Hall of Fame program, and a special Fan Day offering behind-the-scenes access and driver meet-and-greets.
Highlights include dedicated exhibits showcasing historic cars, trophies, and rare artifacts at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, and the Penske Racing Museum in Scottsdale.
Iconic victories like these will be relived throughout the year.
As Penske signs off with sincere thanks, he affirms: “We know the best is still to come.” For a team that has defined excellence in American motorsport for six decades, 2026 isn’t just a milestone—it’s a launchpad for the next chapter. Fans are invited to join the journey using #Penske60.
CONCORD, NC, UNITED STATES, January 2, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Wheelhouse Motorsports today announced a new strategic partnership with Robert Noaker Racing (RNR), uniting two leading organizations known for their development of competitive Mustang racing programs. The collaboration brings together RNR’s championship-winning expertise with Wheelhouse’s operational strength, deep technical resources, and nationally recognized driver development capabilities.
Robert Noaker Racing enters the partnership following back-to-back Team and Driver Championships in 2024 and 2025, including a flawless 2025 Mustang Challenge season in which the Noaker-prepared car led every lap of every race. Wheelhouse Motorsports will integrate this proven technical knowledge with its own established infrastructure, including its GT4 Mustang program competing in the World Racing League (WRL).
Operations will be based at the Wheelhouse Motorsports facility located on the campus of Charlotte Motor Speedway. The Wheelhouse team, including the manager, engineering staff, and technical crew, brings over 100 years of combined motorsports experience to the program. At the track, competitors will also recognize familiar faces, as the RNR crew, led by Bob Noaker, will collaborate with Wheelhouse personnel to support all Mustang Challenge efforts.
“As we continue to expand Wheelhouse Motorsports, this partnership represents a significant step forward,” said Dan McKeever, owner of Wheelhouse Motorsports. “Robert Noaker Racing has demonstrated exceptional proficiency in the Mustang Dark Horse R platform, and by combining that expertise with our operational systems and our long-standing commitment to driver development, we are well-positioned to deliver a next-level experience for our customers and competitors.”
The alliance leverages Wheelhouse’s roots in operating the Ford Performance Racing School, the nation’s premier performance driving school since 2006. The organization operates owner-experience programs for Ford and offers 1-day, 2-day, and Advanced high-performance driving courses, giving clients access to top-tier coaching and continuous development. Integrating this expertise with RNR’s race-winning preparation provides a comprehensive solution for drivers seeking a pathway into professional competition.
“This partnership allows both of our organizations to do what we do best,” said Robert Noaker, owner of Robert Noaker Racing. “Wheelhouse brings unmatched operational depth, driver training, and a world-class facility. When we combine that with the experience our team has developed running and winning with the Dark Horse R, we create a program built to elevate any driver who wants to compete at a higher level.”
Through this partnership, drivers have the following opportunities:
– Lease a Mustang Dark Horse R for the entire 2026 Mustang Challenge season.
– Contract Wheelhouse/RNR to maintain and operate their own cars.
– Compete with Wheelhouse Motorsports in the WRL series, piloting a GTO-class Mustang GT4.
Wheelhouse Motorsports and Robert Noaker Racing look forward to delivering a comprehensive, competitive, and professionally supported environment for drivers seeking championship-caliber performance in 2026 and beyond.
Bill Johnson Wheelhouse +1 910-658-1447 email us here
Legal Disclaimer:
EIN Presswire provides this news content “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability
for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this
article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
