Lee Pulliam is gearing up for his NASCAR debut this spring at Martinsville Speedway, driving the No. 9 Chevrolet entry for JR Motorsports in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. The announcement came ahead of the March 28 race at the historic Virginia track, generating anticipation for the accomplished late-model driver’s first official NASCAR start. Pulliam’s debut is notable given his long-standing success in stock car racing, making the news especially significant for JR Motorsports and their fans.
Pulliam’s Strong Legacy in Late-Model Stock Car Racing
Before stepping into NASCAR, Lee Pulliam earned a reputation as a dominant force in late-model stock car racing. He boasts four NASCAR Whelen All-American Series national championships and has triumphed multiple times at Martinsville, including two victories in the prestigious ValleyStar Credit Union 300. Known by many as the “Daytona 500” of late models, this challenging race helped cement Pulliam’s status as one of the sport’s elite competitors.
Rodney Childers Reflects on Pulliam’s Opportunity
Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s close friend and JR Motorsports’ No. 1 team crew chief, Rodney Childers, expressed his enthusiasm for Pulliam’s entry on social media following the announcement. Childers, who was once a late-model driver himself and never received a similar chance, wrote:
“As many that know me, this one hits close to home. I was once a late model guy, and never got that shot. So, this makes me SO happy to see [Lee Pulliam] get this opportunity. I can’t wait to see him climb in the 9.”
— Rodney Childers, JR Motorsports Crew Chief
Recent Collaborations and Upcoming Races with JR Motorsports
Pulliam’s debut is the latest collaboration with JR Motorsports, following their partnership last year at the Thanksgiving Classic held at Southern National Motorsports Park. In that event, Pulliam drove the No. 88 Chevrolet during the 250-lap feature of the 25th annual Solid Rock Carriers Thanksgiving Classic, showcasing his skill in a marquee late-model car.
For the current season, in addition to his NASCAR debut at Martinsville, Pulliam is scheduled to compete in two CARS Tour races at Coastal Plains Raceway and Southern National, as well as additional competition at South Boston Speedway. His expanding schedule in high-profile late-model events highlights JR Motorsports’ commitment to his continued development.
Additional Drivers Sharing Time in the No. 9 Car
Alongside Pulliam, JR Motorsports will also field the No. 9 Chevrolet for other noted drivers this season, including Shane van Gisbergen and Ross Chastain. This approach offers talented racers opportunities to compete at Martinsville and other venues, while maintaining the strong performance pedigree expected from the team.
Rodney Childers on Joining JR Motorsports and Mentoring Emerging Talent
Rodney Childers began his role as crew chief for JR Motorsports’ No. 1 car in 2026, guiding young drivers Carson Kvapil and Connor Zilisch. Reflecting on his decision to join the team and work with Dale Earnhardt Jr., Childers shared insights into his motivations, saying:
“I had a lot of thinking to do this past year… what’s the right thing for me? What’s going to make me happy? What am I going to have fun with? Do you wait around and hope that the right Cup opportunity comes back around? Or do you take something where you get to work for your best friend in a way, and you also get to work with two of the sport’s young talents that have a bright future?”
— Rodney Childers, JR Motorsports Crew Chief
He further added:
“I’ve gone home every night with a smile on my face and enjoying it and having fun.”
— Rodney Childers, JR Motorsports Crew Chief
Childers brings vast experience from his two decades in the NASCAR Cup Series, including guiding Kevin Harvick to 37 wins and the 2014 championship with Stewart-Haas Racing, which has greatly enriched his role with JR Motorsports.
Implications of Pulliam’s Entry for JR Motorsports and NASCAR
Lee Pulliam’s entry into the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series represents a significant milestone for JR Motorsports, blending seasoned late-model expertise with NASCAR’s competitive platform. His debut symbolizes the team’s focus on developing outstanding drivers and expanding its roster with proven talent. For Pulliam, competing at Martinsville and beyond opens new avenues to build on his distinguished racing career.
With a schedule that also involves other accomplished drivers like van Gisbergen and Chastain in the No. 9 car, JR Motorsports continues to demonstrate its commitment to fielding competitive entries while fostering emerging stars alongside experienced racers. Fans can expect an intense and closely watched season as Pulliam navigates his initial NASCAR events, potentially setting the stage for a lasting impact within the series.
As many that know me, this one hits close to home. I was once a late model guy, and never got that shot. So, this makes me SO happy to see @LeePulliam11 get this opportunity. I can’t wait to see him climb in the 9 @MartinsvilleSwy https://t.co/8Dpbchro2l
— Rodney Childers (@RodneyChilders4) February 24, 2026
