Nick Sanchez will join AM Racing as its full-time driver for the 2026 NASCAR season after parting ways with Big Machine Racing. The Florida native will pilot the No. 25 Ford Mustang in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, aiming to build on his career momentum and contend for more victories.
Background and Transition Details
The announcement came on February 9, confirming Sanchez’s move to AM Racing following the collapse of the team’s intended acquisition by Sigma Performance Services. Consequently, AM Racing will continue operating independently in NASCAR’s secondary series rather than under new ownership.
Sanchez is set to replace Harrison Burton, who is moving to Sam Hunt Racing. Last season, Burton helped the No. 25 team reach the playoffs with ten top-10 finishes. Now, Sanchez inherits a competitive ride as AM Racing prepares for the next chapter.
Season Opener and Broadcast Information
The 2026 season will kick off at Daytona International Speedway, with the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series race scheduled for Saturday, February 14, at 5 p.m. ET. Fans can watch the event live on CW, marking the start of Sanchez’s campaign with AM Racing.
Nick Sanchez’s Performance and Career Progression
Sanchez joined Big Machine Racing in 2025, taking over the No. 48 car following Parker Kligerman’s retirement. During that season, Sanchez secured his first career win at EchoPark Speedway in Atlanta and finished 11th in the overall championship. His consistent driving included seven top-five finishes and twelve top-10s, with an average race finish of 17.1.
Although expectations pointed to a return to Big Machine Racing for 2026, the team opted to sign Patrick Staropoli instead, leaving Sanchez without a seat until the AM Racing opportunity arose.
Team Changes and Future Outlook
AM Racing faces additional adjustments beyond the driver change. Crew chief Danny Efland departed after the 2025 season to join Viking Motorsports, meaning AM Racing must appoint a new leader for the No. 25 team. Sanchez and the team will need to establish strong chemistry quickly to remain competitive in the series.
Statements from Nick Sanchez and AM Racing
Excited for this new chapter with @AMRacingNASCAR & @FordRacing . Ready for this opportunity and focused on the season ahead! pic.twitter.com/bR9UxGTZ2d
– Nick Sanchez, NASCAR driver
AM Racing is excited to announce the signing of rising phenom Nick Sanchez as the driver of the team’s No. 25 Ford Mustang Dark Horse in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series,
AM Racing wrote on X.
Significance of the Move in NASCAR’s 2026 Landscape
This transition represents a critical moment for Sanchez as he aims to prove himself with a different organization. AM Racing’s ability to capitalize on this signing will influence its competitiveness in 2026, especially as the team navigates new leadership and intends to build on its recent playoff appearance. Fans and teams alike will watch closely to see how this pairing unfolds throughout the season.
Excited for this new chapter with @AMRacingNASCAR & @FordRacing . Ready for this opportunity and focused on the season ahead! pic.twitter.com/bR9UxGTZ2d
— Nicholas Sanchez (@Nicksanchez080) February 9, 2026
New Year ➡️ New Driver! Welcome @Nicksanchez080 pic.twitter.com/Ty5mdYQyUO
— AM Racing (@AMRacingNASCAR) February 9, 2026
