NASCAR points leader Creed to join Sam Hunt Racing in 2027

Sam Hunt Racing announced Saturday at Las Vegas Motor Speedway that points leader Sheldon Creed signed a multi-year deal to drive the No. 26 Toyota GR Supra beginning in 2027. Creed leads NOAPS by 11 points over Justin Allgaier and will finish 2026 in the Haas Factory Team No. 00. Kris Bowen will serve as crew chief. Creed said he could not be more excited to chase trophies alongside Bowen and that it is special to put his name above the door. He has three wins this season after his first career win at EchoPark Speedway Atlanta in February, plus Chase wins at Darlington and Bristol. Owner Sam Hunt called it one of the most fulfilling announcements since founding SHR and said Creed is a racer in the purest form. Creed said a Cup ride remains his end goal, but if that call never comes, Sam Hunt Racing is somewhere he can race for the next 15 years. Hunt said the team is committed to Toyota long term. Contested: none found. Dean Thompson is expected to move to Haas in 2027 as that team expands to three entries. Creed is focused on the title in the final six races with Haas.