Busch Grand National Era

Lore & Background

The season will mark the first Cup Series season without Kyle Busch starting a race since the 2002 season, following his death on May 21, 2026. Richard Childress Racing's No. 8, renumbered to the No. 33, was left without a driver; Austin Hill took his place for the Coca-Cola 600 and the remainder of 2026, and was announced to pilot the car in 2027 on August 24.

Reader's Guide

The preseason features the Wheatley Vodka Clash at Daytona International Speedway on February 13, followed by the season-opening 69th running of the Daytona 500 on February 21, and ends at Homestead–Miami Speedway on November 14. The schedule consists of 32 ovals, 3 road courses, and 1 street course, plus 3 non-championship races on ovals.

Did You Know?

• The Wheatley Vodka Clash returns to Daytona International Speedway for the first time since 2020.
• Jesse Love is the only expected rookie for 2027 so far.
• Riley Herbst will not return to 23XI Racing for 2027; Corey Heim steps up.
• Josh Berry will not return to Wood Brothers Racing for 2027; Jesse Love steps up.