Sheldon Creed secured his inaugural O’Reilly Auto Parts Series win on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at EchoPark Speedway, ending a string of near misses with a decisive performance. The California native took the lead late in the race, overcoming fierce competition to earn the victory in the Bennett Transportation & Logistics 250 after 137 starts.
Creed qualified strongly with a best lap time of 31.91 seconds, reaching speeds up to 173.76 mph. Starting fourth behind Taylor Gray, Creed maneuvered through a 163-lap race featuring 24 lead changes, an intense contest lasting over two hours and twenty minutes. The turning point came when Austin Hill, who was leading, was spun into the infield grass following contact from Trackhouse Racing’s Ross Chastain, allowing Creed to seize the lead and hold off Parker Retzlaff by 0.309 seconds at the finish.
Jimmie Johnson and Connor Zilisch Celebrate Creed’s Achievement
Veteran NASCAR icon Jimmie Johnson expressed his admiration for Creed’s breakthrough victory, offering congratulations on social media. Johnson’s recognition highlights the significance of the win for Creed’s career progression within the racing community.
“East County in the house!! Congrats @sheldoncreed!!”
NASCAR rising star Connor Zilisch also voiced his excitement, signaling support from younger drivers and fans alike.
“Bout damn time. Hell ya @sheldoncreed!!”
Haas Factory Team’s Strategic Shift Revives Creed’s Chevrolet Connection
The 2026 season saw Haas Factory Team transition from Ford to Chevrolet as their OEM partner, a move that rekindled Sheldon Creed’s association with Chevy machinery. This change also included a technical alliance with Hendrick Motorsports, providing engines and support that aim to boost the team’s competitive edge across different series.
Cole Custer drives the #41 in the Cup Series for Haas, while Creed and Sam Mayer share Chevrolet entries #00 and #41 respectively in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. This realignment opens the door for Creed to solidify his presence not only in the O’Reilly Series but potentially in the Truck and Cup Series as well.
“We have a long history with Gene and his organization, including winning championships together, so this feels almost like a homecoming. Our relationship started many years ago with Haas CNC machines in our facilities, and I’ve always admired the passion that he and Joe Custer have for the sport and their desire to win. We’re proud to support Haas Factory Team and thrilled to work together to deliver more victories for Chevrolet.”
— Rick Hendrick, Hendrick Motorsports Team Owner
Early Season Results Demonstrate Haas Team’s Competitive Potential
At the 2026 Daytona 500 season opener, Haas Factory Team’s Cole Custer finished 24th, while both Sheldon Creed and Sam Mayer placed 24th and 31st respectively in their O’Reilly Series events. Creed’s recent triumph at Atlanta Motor Speedway marks the first win for the team in a Chevrolet, signaling momentum for the newly aligned partnership.
Creed’s victory not only breaks a personal winless streak but also represents a milestone for the Haas Factory Team in their first year with Chevy. The heightened collaboration with Hendrick Motorsports suggests improved performance, with expectations that Creed and his teammates will continue to contend strongly in upcoming races across NASCAR’s national series.
The dramatic finish in Atlanta that ended with @sheldoncreed earning his first victory in 138 starts! pic.twitter.com/lssBvwMw76
— The CW Sports (@TheCW_Sports) February 22, 2026
