Hendrick Motorsports Talent to Helm Ross Chastain's No. 1 Chevrolet in 2026

Trackhouse Racing has announced a significant crew chief change for the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season, with Brandon McSwain set to take over the pit box for driver Ross Chastain. McSwain, currently an engineer with the No. 24 Hendrick Motorsports team, will replace Phil Surgen, who has been Chastain’s crew chief since the 2021 season.

The partnership between Chastain and Surgen has been highly successful, yielding all six of Chastain’s career Cup Series victories. Notably, the duo came close to clinching the 2022 Cup Series championship and most recently secured a prestigious win in the 2025 Coca-Cola 600. Their consistent performance saw them reach the playoffs in three of the last four seasons, concluding the 2025 season ranked tenth in the final championship standings. Surgen will transition to a new role within the Trackhouse Racing organization.

McSwain brings a strong technical background to the role, honed over six years with Hendrick Motorsports. While his direct crew chief experience is limited, he has stepped in for crew chief Rudy Fugle on the No. 24 Chevrolet on several occasions. During his tenure with Hendrick, the No. 24 team, driven by William Byron, has achieved remarkable consistency, reaching the Championship 4 for the past three consecutive seasons. McSwain also boasts prior experience with JR Motorsports, where he was part of the championship-winning teams in 2017 and 2018 with drivers William Byron and Tyler Reddick, respectively.

This strategic move by Trackhouse Racing is part of a broader organizational adjustment aimed at bolstering performance. The team has faced challenges in the current season, with performance generally lagging behind previous years, with the notable exception of Shane van Gisbergen’s success on road and street courses. The organization has been implementing internal changes, including crew member rotations and the appointment of a new president of racing operations, signaling a clear intent to improve competitiveness across the board.

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The appointment of McSwain, a respected engineer with a proven track record of success within a championship-contending environment, suggests Trackhouse Racing’s commitment to leveraging data-driven insights and technical expertise. His background at Hendrick Motorsports, a powerhouse organization known for its engineering prowess and consistent championship runs, could provide Chastain and the No. 1 team with a fresh perspective and innovative strategies.

Chastain, known for his aggressive driving style and his ability to connect with fans, has become a prominent figure in the Cup Series. His partnership with Surgen has been instrumental in his rise, transforming him into a consistent race winner and championship contender. The transition to McSwain marks a new chapter for Chastain and Trackhouse Racing, with expectations high for continued success and a renewed push for a championship title.

The 2025 season saw Chastain and Surgen achieve a significant victory in the Coca-Cola 600, a crown jewel event that underscores their capability on the biggest stages. Their playoff appearances in recent years highlight their consistent ability to contend. However, the team’s overall standing in the 2025 season, tenth in the final standings, indicates that there is room for improvement. The move to McSwain is likely intended to inject new technical leadership and potentially unlock further performance gains.

McSwain’s experience at Hendrick Motorsports, particularly with the No. 24 team’s sustained success, provides a valuable benchmark. The ability of the No. 24 team to consistently reach the Championship 4 speaks to a well-oiled operation, strong engineering, and effective race strategy – elements that Trackhouse Racing will be eager to replicate. His background at JR Motorsports also signifies a deep understanding of the developmental pathways and team dynamics within top-tier NASCAR organizations.

Trackhouse Racing, founded by Justin Marks, has rapidly established itself as a competitive force in the Cup Series since its inception. The team’s rapid growth and success, particularly with Chastain and Daniel Suárez, have garnered significant attention. However, the current season’s performance dip has prompted a strategic reassessment, with these personnel changes reflecting a proactive approach to address shortcomings and build for the future. The team’s continued investment in talent, both on and off the track, underscores its long-term ambitions in the sport.

The upcoming seasons will be crucial for Trackhouse Racing as they integrate new leadership and strive to return to consistent winning form. The collaboration between Chastain and McSwain will be closely watched as they aim to build upon the strong foundation established by Chastain and Surgen, with the ultimate goal of capturing a NASCAR Cup Series championship.