By: Andy DeLay Staff Writer

​If there is one thing I’ve learned in decades of covering this sport, it’s that “talent” is a word thrown around way too loosely these days. Every once in a while, though, you see a kid who reminds you of the old days… Someone who can hop in a dirt midget, a Trans Am car, or a stock car and just wheel it.

​Brent Crews is that kid. Fortunately for him, he got tossed the keys to one of the best rides in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series garage.

​Joe Gibbs Racing announced Monday that the 17-year-old phenom will drive the No. 19 Toyota GR Supra in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series (formerly the Xfinity Series) for the 2026 season.

​The Details

It’s a 29-race deal. Why not a full 33, you ask? Well, Crews doesn’t turn 18 until March 30th. Under NASCAR’s eligibility rules, he’ll miss the big tracks like Daytona and Atlanta at the start of the year because of his age.

​However, we won’t have to wait long to see him. Thanks to updated regulations allowing 17-year-olds on road courses and short tracks (1.25 miles or less), Crews will make his series debut at Circuit of the Americas (COTA) on February 28. Once the candles are blown out on his 18th birthday cake, he will be full-time for the rest of the year.

​Why This Matters

For those of you who haven’t been watching the up-and-comers, let me catch you up. Crews isn’t just another rich daddy’s boy bringing a big check to the table. He’s a throwback.

​Versatility: He was the youngest Trans-Am TA2 Champion in history back in 2023.

Dirt Roots: He won a POWRi National Midget race at age 13.

Late Model Success: He took home the hardware as the World Series of Asphalt Super Late Model Champion in 2024.

​He’s cut from the same cloth as guys with the names Larson and Stewart… Drivers who don’t care what surface they are on, as long as there’s a steering wheel, a gas pedal, and the damn thing goes fast.

​The Quotes

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to be able to race with a winning organization and Toyota,” Crews said regarding the announcement. “I’ve learned a lot so far with the ARCA program… I feel confident with all the resources that JGR and Toyota provide.”

​Steve de Souza, the EVP over at JGR, didn’t mince words either, noting Crews’ success in ARCA and confidently predicting he’ll be a “top contender” immediately.

​My Take

Putting a rookie in the No. 19, which is a car that just won the 2025 Owners’ Championship, is a big statement. JGR isn’t looking for a seat-warmer; they’re developing their next superstar.

​It’s going to be a steep learning curve, especially with the deep talent pool we’re seeing in the O’Reilly Series lately. But if his resume is anything to go by, Brent Crews isn’t just coming to participate. He’s coming to win.

​We’ll see you at COTA, Brent.

Image Credit: Patrick Vallely