PHOENIX, AZ – As the NASCAR Cup Series heads to Phoenix Raceway this weekend for its first race on a traditional oval in the 2026 season, Hendrick Motorsports is bringing a splash of color to the desert with a series of eye-catching paint schemes. The team will debut a brand-new look on the No. 48 Chevrolet while its other entries – the No. 5, No. 9, and No. 24 – will sport their primary colors.
The focus on aesthetics comes as Hendrick Motorsports aims to recapture the NASCAR Cup Series championship, a title they last secured in 2021. Improving performance at Phoenix Raceway is a key component of that plan, and the team is visibly working towards that goal. This weekend’s race represents an important opportunity to demonstrate progress on that front.
Among the most anticipated reveals is the new paint scheme for the No. 48 Ally Best Friends Chevrolet, which will make its on-track debut. The No. 5 HendrickCars.com Chevrolet, the No. 24 RAPTOR Chevrolet, and the No. 9 NAPA Auto Parts Chevrolet will also be prominently featured with their established designs. Hendrick Motorsports highlighted the new designs in a gallery on its website, offering fans a preview of the cars before they hit the track.
A History of Success at Phoenix
Several Hendrick Motorsports drivers have already tasted victory at Phoenix Raceway. Kyle Larson, William Byron, and Chase Elliott each have a win at the Arizona track, demonstrating the team’s capability on this particular circuit. Byron’s success extends beyond the Cup Series, as he is also scheduled to compete in Saturday’s NASCAR O’Reilly Series race in the No. 88 JR Motorsports Chevrolet. This dual participation underscores Byron’s versatility and commitment to racing across different series.
The team’s preparation for Phoenix follows a recent race at the Circuit of the Americas, where Corey Day finished fifth in the NASCAR O’Reilly Series. Hendrick Motorsports continues to build on its momentum as it navigates the 2026 season. The team’s performance at COTA and the upcoming race at Phoenix are crucial steps in their championship pursuit.
Looking Back at a Dynasty
Hendrick Motorsports’ focus on the present is coupled with a look back at its storied past. The team recently launched a series examining the successful partnership between Jimmie Johnson and Chad Knaus, a pairing that yielded significant victories and championships. The first part of this series focused on their early successes, including wins at Florida. This retrospective provides context for the team’s current ambitions and highlights the legacy it strives to uphold.
Paint Scheme Details
The vibrant paint schemes are presented by Kelley Blue Book, adding another layer of sponsorship to the Hendrick Motorsports effort. The team’s attention to detail extends beyond performance, encompassing the visual presentation of its cars. This commitment to aesthetics aims to engage fans and create a memorable experience at the track.
Here’s a look at how the Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolets will appear during race time:
(Image of the No. 5 HendrickCars.com Chevrolet from Hendrick Motorsports website)
The unveiling of these paint schemes adds to the excitement surrounding the Phoenix Raceway race. Fans can look forward to seeing these colorful cars compete on the track as Hendrick Motorsports continues its quest for a championship.
The 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season is already proving to be competitive, with several drivers vying for the top spot. Austin Hill will be behind the wheel of the No. 33 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet, having piloted the machine five times in 2025 and securing a top-10 finish. The addition of Hill to the field adds another dynamic to the racing landscape.
As Hendrick Motorsports prepares for the race at Phoenix, the team is focused on maximizing its performance and capitalizing on the strengths of its drivers. The combination of talent, preparation, and visually striking paint schemes positions the team for a strong showing this weekend.
The next step for Hendrick Motorsports is the race at Phoenix Raceway, where the team will aim to translate its preparation and visual appeal into on-track success. Fans can follow the action and stay updated on the team’s progress through official NASCAR channels and Hendrick Motorsports’ website.
What do you consider of the new paint schemes? Share your thoughts and predictions for the Phoenix race in the comments below.
