Seventeen-year-old Brent Crews, a Toyota development driver, will compete in 12 races during the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series season. Crews will pilot the No. 19 Young Life Toyota GR Supra, joining Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) in continuing the legacy of their successful partnership. This opportunity arises following the team’s 2025 Owners Championship win with veteran Aric Almirola behind the wheel and highlights a shift toward developing new talent for the future of racing.
A Partnership Rooted in Legacy and Mission
The No. 19 car’s title sponsorship has transitioned creatively thanks to The Signatry, which donated the sponsorship to Young Life, a ministry closely connected with the Gibbs family. This unique collaboration embodies a mission of discipleship inspired by the late J.D. Gibbs, whose influence remains integral to both the racing team and Young Life. Brent Crews is more than just a driver; he actively participates in this mission with support from his Young Life leader, Miller Gibbs, grandson of Joe Gibbs and son of J.D. Gibbs.
It is a huge honor to drive the No. 19, but having Young Life on the car means something different to me personally,
said Crews, who is scheduled to debut in the series this season.
I’ve had the opportunity to participate in a Young Life camp event at Windy Gap with Miller Gibbs as my mentor, and it was one of the best experiences of my life. I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue to put the Young Life Toyota up front.
Brent Crews’ Rising Career and Performance Highlights
Crews has quickly established himself as a promising rookie in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series after joining JGR. During the 2025 season, he earned five wins and six pole positions across the ARCA Menards Series East, West, and regular divisions. Crews has also demonstrated skill in the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series, leading more than 100 laps and achieving two top-five finishes and three top-ten results. His performance signals readiness to take on the challenges of the upcoming full season.
The Enduring Influence of the Gibbs Family and Young Life
The collaboration between the Gibbs family and Young Life dates back over four decades to when J.D. Gibbs was involved as a high school student. J.D. later served on Young Life’s Board of Trustees, strongly supporting the ministry until his passing in 2019. This commitment continues with initiatives like the J.D. Gibbs Campership Legacy Fund, which helps remove financial barriers so children can attend camps and experience transformative weeks centered on faith and community.
We are excited to see Brent behind the wheel, not just because of his talent, but because of who he is,
stated Joey Jimenez, Young Life’s Chief Development Officer.
Last year, we saw Young Life on a championship car. This year, we see the mission coming full circle—a teenager driving the car that honors J.D.’s memory. It is a perfect picture of generational impact.
Looking Ahead: The 12-Race Campaign Starting at Circuit of the Americas
The No. 19 Young Life Toyota GR Supra, with Brent Crews driving, will compete in 12 races scheduled for the 2026 season. The campaign will begin at Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, on February 28. This season marks a significant milestone, reflecting both the emerging talent of Brent Crews in NASCAR and the ongoing dedication to faith-driven partnerships and generational influence within Joe Gibbs Racing.
