Dale Earnhardt Jr. Voices Support for NASCAR Driver Nick Sanchez After Unexpected Team Release
A sudden roster shakeup in the NASCAR Xfinity Series has left driver Nick Sanchez searching for a full-time ride for the 2026 season, prompting strong reactions from industry figures like Dale Earnhardt Jr., who championed Sanchez’s talent and the vital role drivers with his competitive spirit play in the sport.
The 24-year-old Sanchez, who debuted full-time in the 2025 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, quickly proved his potential, securing his first Xfinity Series win at Atlanta after a challenging start at Daytona. He had been piloting the #48 for Big Machine Racing since 2022, and initially, the team had plans for his continued advancement into 2026. however, those plans abruptly changed.
In early December, sanchez announced via social media that he would not be returning to Big Machine Racing in 2026. “Over the weekend, I was informed that I will not be driving the No.48 for Big Machine Racing in 2026… I am proud of all we have accomplished this year, including our win. Unfortunate timing and circumstances, but it’s strictly business,” he stated.
This decision sparked controversy within NASCAR, raising concerns about Sanchez’s future prospects given the competitive landscape. It was a development that particularly frustrated Earnhardt Jr.
Speaking on the Dale Jr. Download podcast,Earnhardt jr. expressed his disbelief and staunch support for sanchez. “Screw the paper logistics. I watched. We all watched the test without a doubt. the kid’s talent speed. Yeah. Kid’s got something,” he said.
Earnhardt Jr. emphasized the importance of drivers like Sanchez for the overall health and excitement of the sport.He explained that Sanchez’s on-track performance is crucial for captivating fans. “He’s decent and he’s got some talent. The other thing too I like is that he p-sses some people off, right? I mean I don’t love that because sometimes he p-sses me off or he p-sses one of my guys off. But as a fan or as a broadcaster and as somebody who’s wanting to fall in love with the sport… We need guys like that.”
So, what makes Nick Sanchez so compelling on the track? He doesn’t simply seek clear track space; rather, he aggressively battles his competitors, showcasing extraordinary racecraft. Sanchez demonstrates what many describe as “controlled aggression,” strategically knowing when and against whom to push. While this approach sometimes results in lost positions,it more often leads to significant gains,creating unpredictable and thrilling races for viewers. This is precisely the quality Earnhardt Jr. highlighted as essential for NASCAR’s continued success.
Despite his talent and a recent victory, finding a full-time spot in the Series for next year appears challenging for Sanchez.
why did this happen?
Big Machine Racing decided not to renew Nick sanchez’s contract for the 2026 season,citing “strictly business” reasons. The exact details remain undisclosed,but it appears to be a strategic decision by the team regarding its future driver lineup.
Who is involved?
The key players are Nick Sanchez, the driver who lost his ride; Big Machine Racing, the team that released him; and Dale Earnhardt Jr.,a prominent NASCAR figure who publicly voiced his support for Sanchez.The broader NASCAR community is also affected, as Sanchez’s situation raises questions about driver development and opportunities.
