Sam Hunt Racing began as DRIVE Technology in 2013, founded by Sam Hunt, a former racer who once lived in a van to pursue his dreams. They achieved a milestone in 2019 when they made their Xfinity Series debut at Homestead-Miami Speedway. Over the years, SHR has evolved, expanding its operations in Mooresville, North Carolina. As they continue to make strides, their 2025 Xfinity season has been a pivotal one for them.

This season’s marked by strategic partnerships and the emergence of promising drivers. The No. 24 car saw a rotation of drivers, including Ryan Truex, Corey Heim, Patrick Staropoli, and Jeffrey Earnhardt, each contributing to the team’s dynamic performance. Jeffrey Earnhardt also returned to SHR for multiple races, including his notable one at Talladega. Looking ahead, they might have even bigger aims for the next year.

Sam Hunt Racing signals ambition for NASCAR’s top tier

Sam Hunt Racing, a notable team in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, has reportedly acquired Cup Series chassis, signaling a potential expansion into the NASCAR Cup Series. While the team has not officially confirmed these plans, the acquisition suggests preparations for a possible Cup Series entry in the near future, with speculation hinting at a debut as early as late 2025 or early 2026.

This move aligns with SHR’s recent growth and ambition to elevate its presence in NASCAR’s premier division. The team currently fields the No. 26 Toyota Supra full-time for Dean Thompson and the No. 24 part-time for various drivers, including notable talents like Christopher Bell and Corey Heim.

In 2025, SHR expanded its partnerships, welcoming Oregon State University as a primary sponsor for the No. 26 car at Portland, highlighting the team’s growing influence and strategic alliances within the sport. However, SHR has established a significant partnership with Toyota Racing Development, which has been instrumental in the team’s growth and success in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.

In 2022, SHR solidified its partnership with Toyota by acquiring assets from Joe Gibbs Racing‘s NASCAR K&N Pro Series East No. 18 team, which was closing down after the 2012 season. Sam Hunt’s tight-knit team has consistently been competitive, coming close to victory on multiple occasions.

John Hunter Nemechek has notched three top-5 finishes for the organization, while Toyota driver Corey Heim has also been in contention for wins in Hunt’s equipment. This season, Christopher Bell was vying for a win at Mexico City in Hunt’s No. 24 car before an engine failure ended his bid.

“We have one step left to be there consistently. We’ve covered the bingo card all around Victory Lane. I want all of the people who have left bigger, Cup-affiliated teams and have gotten on board with what we’re building to be in victory lane. I won’t say it’ll be the most special day in my life because I am married, but it’ll be close to it,” Hunt said about competing for wins.

The team’s use of Joe Gibbs Racing equipment has been a key factor in their competitive performance. For instance, Brian Gainey, who served as the car chief for JGR’s No. 20 Xfinity Series team, has been a part of SHR’s crew, bringing valuable experience and technical expertise to the organization. Additionally, drivers like Kaz Grala have benefitted from the technical support provided by TRD, contributing to SHR’s most successful season to date.

With talent, teamwork, and Toyota’s backing, SHR continues to prove it’s a serious contender every time it hits the track, with a chance to even compete with the big teams in the Cup Series. Meanwhile, another team rumor has been igniting excitement among NASCAR fans.

NASCAR driver leaves, team weighs options for 2026

Harrison Burton’s journey through NASCAR has been defined by perseverance and growth. After claiming four victories in the Xfinity Series in 2020 with Joe Gibbs Racing, he transitioned to the Cup Series in 2022 with Wood Brothers Racing. His first Cup Series win came in August 2024 at Daytona International Speedway, but the 2025 season brought new challenges, as he competed in AM Racing’s No. 25 Ford Mustang in the Xfinity Series, finishing 12th in the standings with 2 top-5s and 10 top-10s over 29 races.

On October 8, 2025, Burton announced he would return to AM Racing for the 2026 season. He shared on social media: “I want to thank AM Racing, Tim Self and Wade Moore for the opportunity and trust at a pivotal moment in my career after I lost my Cup seat entering 2025. From Day 1, the group’s commitment and preparation helped us deliver tangible progress. So far, we have team-record top-five and top-10 results and the organization’s first trip to the Xfinity Series Playoffs.” He added, “I’m proud of how we show up each week, compete at the highest level and finish strong.”

AM Racing also expressed gratitude, stating: “The organization thanks Harrison and the Burton family for their professionalism and contributions on and off the track, and wishes them continued success in Harrison’s future endeavors.”

With Burton’s departure, speculation is growing around potential replacements such as London Cassill, Kole Raz, and Carson Kvapil, each bringing a mix of experience, promise, and performance to the table as the team prepares for the 2026 season.