Haas Factory Team Announces Manufacturer Switch to Chevrolet for 2026

Haas Factory Team has confirmed its transition from Ford to Chevrolet for the 2026 NASCAR season. This strategic shift encompasses both its NASCAR Cup Series and the soon-to-be-renamed NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. As part of this change, Haas will establish a technical alliance with Hendrick Motorsports, utilizing Hendrick-built engines across both series. The team will retain its current driver lineup, with Cole Custer driving the No. 41 Chevrolet in the Cup Series, and Sheldon Creed and Sam Mayer piloting the Nos. 00 and 41 entries in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.

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The move marks a return to Chevrolet for Haas, whose NASCAR journey began in 2002 with Haas CNC Racing, a Chevrolet team. In 2009, Gene Haas partnered with NASCAR Hall of Famer Tony Stewart to form Stewart-Haas Racing, which also campaigned Chevrolets until switching to Ford in 2017. This transition back to Chevrolet is seen as a full-circle moment for Haas, who expressed gratitude for the support received from Ford during their partnership.

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Joe Custer, president of Haas Factory Team, stated, “First and foremost, we want to thank Ford for its partnership. Their support allowed us to establish Haas Factory Team, and we remain dedicated to delivering results for them in Cup and Xfinity all the way through the season finale in Phoenix.” Gene Haas echoed this sentiment, emphasizing his long-standing relationship with Chevrolet and Hendrick Motorsports, which he believes will enhance the team’s competitive edge. Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports, remarked, “We have a long history with Gene and his organization, including winning championships together, so this feels almost like a homecoming.”

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This manufacturer switch is expected to revitalize Haas Factory Team's performance, which has faced challenges in recent seasons. The team has struggled in the Cup Series, with Custer currently ranked 33rd in points, while the Xfinity Series drivers have shown more promise. The alliance with Hendrick Motorsports, a powerhouse in NASCAR, is anticipated to provide the technical support necessary for improved results.

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While the move has been largely welcomed, some critics question the timing and rationale behind the switch. Concerns have been raised about whether the change will yield immediate improvements, given the team's current performance struggles. Additionally, the departure from Ford leaves the manufacturer with fewer teams in the NASCAR landscape, prompting speculation about how Ford will respond to this shift.

EssentiallySports

Haas Factory Team will officially debut its Chevrolet lineup at the Cook Out Clash on February 1, 2026, at Bowman Gray Stadium. The team aims to leverage its new partnership to enhance its competitive standing in both the Cup and O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, with hopes of returning to championship contention.

Sports Illustrated

• “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

NASCAR Cup Series team announce major swap ahead of 2026

• “We’re proud to support Haas Factory Team and thrilled to work together to deliver more victories for Chevrolet.” — Rick Hendrick, Owner, Hendrick Motorsports

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