Full Breakdown
Haas Factory Team Transitions from Ford to Chevrolet for 2026 NASCAR Season
9/6/2025, 2:19:15 PM
Major Manufacturer Shift Announced
Haas Factory Team has confirmed a significant transition from Ford to Chevrolet for its NASCAR operations starting in the 2026 season. This change encompasses their full-time participation in both the NASCAR Cup Series and the soon-to-be-renamed NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. As part of this transition, Haas will establish a technical alliance with Hendrick Motorsports, which will provide Hendrick-built engines for both series.
Driver Lineup Remains Consistent
The team will retain its current driver roster, with Cole Custer continuing to drive the No. 41 Chevrolet in the Cup Series. In the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, Sheldon Creed and Sam Mayer will return to their respective entries, Nos. 00 and 41. This continuity aims to build on the team's existing performance, which has seen Mayer achieve notable success, including a victory at Iowa Speedway.
Historical Context of the Transition
Gene Haas, the owner of Haas Factory Team, has a longstanding relationship with Chevrolet, dating back to the inception of his NASCAR involvement in 2002 with Haas CNC Racing. This team initially fielded Chevrolets until 2016 when it transitioned to Ford under the Stewart-Haas Racing banner. The return to Chevrolet marks a full-circle moment for Haas, who expressed gratitude for the support received from Ford during their partnership.
Official Statements & Responses
Joe Custer, president of Haas Factory Team, acknowledged Ford's contributions, stating, “First and foremost, we want to thank Ford for its partnership. Their support allowed us to establish Haas Factory Team.” He emphasized the team's commitment to delivering results through the remainder of the season. Gene Haas echoed this sentiment, highlighting the historical significance of the switch: “Personally, I have a deep history with Chevrolet and Hendrick Motorsports... Together, we were able to build a race team that competed for wins and championships.”
Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports, described the partnership as a "homecoming," noting their long-standing relationship and shared history of success. He stated, “We have a long history with Gene and his organization, including winning championships together, so this feels almost like a homecoming.”
Criticism & Opposition
While the transition has been largely welcomed, some industry observers speculate on the implications for Ford, which will now have a reduced presence in the Cup Series. The loss of Haas Factory Team leaves Ford with fewer teams in the competitive landscape, raising questions about how they will respond to maintain their market position.
What's Next
Haas Factory Team will officially debut as a Chevrolet-backed entity on February 1, 2026, at Bowman Gray Stadium for The Cook Out Clash, a non-points event. The team aims to leverage its historical ties with Chevrolet and Hendrick Motorsports to enhance its competitive edge in the upcoming season.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Personally, I have a deep history with Chevrolet and Hendrick Motorsports. Both helped in establishing not only my presence as a team owner in NASCAR, but also the presence of Haas Automation.” — Gene Haas, Owner, Haas Factory Team
- “First and foremost, we want to thank Ford for its partnership.” — Joe Custer, President, Haas Factory Team
- “We have a long history with Gene and his organization, including winning championships together, so this feels almost like a homecoming.” — Rick Hendrick, Owner, Hendrick Motorsports
This strategic shift in manufacturer allegiance is poised to reshape Haas Factory Team's future in NASCAR, as they seek to reclaim their competitive stature with Chevrolet's support.
