NASCAR's 79th season marks a major era of transition and loss
In short: The 2027 NASCAR Cup Series arrives during a period of profound change. Following the death of Kyle Busch in May 2026, the series enters its first season without him since 2002. Beyond the driver shifts, the schedule is evolving, with several venues returning to the championship format for the first time in years.
Marking its 79th year of professional US stock car racing, the 2027 NASCAR Cup Series also denotes the 56th modern-era season. This year is defined by significant personnel shifts following the passing of Kyle Busch on May 21, 2026. His death marks the first time since the 2002 season that the series will compete without him. In the wake of his passing, Richard Childress Racing renumbered his No. 8 car to the No. 33, with Austin Hill announced on August 24 to pilot the vehicle for the 2027 season.
The driver lineup is seeing substantial movement. Jesse Love is the sole expected rookie for the year, joining Wood Brothers Racing to replace Josh Berry, who is moving to Legacy Motor Club. Meanwhile, Corey Heim will join 23XI Racing, replacing Riley Herbst, who is moving to a new third team at Legacy Motor Club. Although Austin Hill and Corey Heim will compete in their first full-time Cup Series seasons in 2027, they are ineligible for Rookie of the Year because they have already exceeded the 12-race limit.
The racing calendar, unveiled on August 26, 2026, features 32 ovals, three road courses, and one street course, alongside three non-championship oval races. Notable venues returning to 'The Chase' include Watkins Glen International, Richmond Raceway, and New Hampshire Motor Speedway. Additionally, the Wheatley Vodka Clash returns to Daytona International Speedway on February 13, marking its first appearance at that venue since 2020, while the season concludes at Homestead–Miami Speedway on November 14.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: 2027 NASCAR Cup Series
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