NASCAR Rumor: Trackhouse Racing eyes Honda entry in Cup Series
Honda is heavily rumored to enter NASCAR, potentially as early as 2026, with speculation pointing toward a Cup Series entry with Trackhouse Racing.
–by Mark Cipolloni–
This follows their reported consideration of exiting IndyCar due to rising costs, making NASCAR an attractive alternative given its cost-effective structure and hybrid technology alignment, which Honda excels in from its Formula 1 and consumer vehicle programs.
It should be noted that IndyCar likely let Honda win just about all the 2025 races, including the Indy 500 and the 2025 championship, in a last ditch desperate effort to get Honda to stay in the series.
NASCAR EVP John Probst has stated they are “very close” to a deal with a new manufacturer, with Honda frequently cited as the frontrunner. However, Honda’s motorsports manager, Chuck Schifsky, has remained non-committal, saying they are “exploring multiple options” without confirming NASCAR plans.
Potential Team Partnerships
Trackhouse Racing is the most frequently mentioned team as a potential Honda partner if they join NASCAR. Several factors support this:
Strategic Fit: Trackhouse has a reputation for bold, strategic partnerships, competing in both NASCAR and MotoGP, where Honda is already an OEM. This existing relationship could facilitate a seamless alignment in NASCAR, leveraging shared branding and technical expertise.
Performance and Visibility: Trackhouse’s success, with multiple Cup Series wins and a strong marketing presence, makes it an appealing partner for Honda to establish a competitive foothold. Their global motorsports ventures and young, dynamic program align with Honda’s desire for a high-profile entry.
Hybrid Technology: Honda’s expertise in hybrid propulsion aligns with NASCAR’s planned shift to hybrid powertrains by 2026, and Trackhouse’s technical capabilities could maximize this advantage.
Other teams like RFK Racing have been mentioned speculatively, but RFK’s commitment to Ford makes a switch less likely. Stewart-Haas Racing (now Ford-aligned) has also surfaced in rumors, but no concrete ties to Honda have been confirmed.
Why Not RAM Trucks?
Trackhouse is unlikely to partner with RAM Trucks, despite RAM’s confirmed return to the NASCAR Truck Series in 2026 under Stellantis, for several reasons:
Existing Honda Connection: Trackhouse’s involvement in MotoGP, where Honda is an OEM, creates a natural synergy for aligning with Honda across multiple racing platforms. A RAM partnership would lack this cross-series alignment.
Strategic Timing: Honda’s potential Cup Series entry aligns with Trackhouse’s ambition to partner with a new OEM entering at the top level. RAM’s focus is initially on the Truck Series, with Cup Series plans not expected until 2027–2028, which may not match Trackhouse’s timeline or goals.
Team Loyalty and Fit: While RAM is exploring partnerships (e.g., with Kaulig Racing), Trackhouse’s profile as a forward-thinking team with global ambitions makes Honda a better cultural and technical fit. RAM’s Truck Series return is a lower-stakes reentry, and teams like Niece Motorsports have already rejected RAM rumors to stay loyal to Chevrolet.
Speculation on Commitment: Posts on X by Adam Stern suggest Trackhouse may deliberately wait for Honda to align their NASCAR and MotoGP OEMs, rather than committing to RAM, which lacks the same motorsport synergy.
While some have wondered if @TeamTrackhouse will be a candidate for @RamTrucks and @Stellantis, the team may decide to wait for @Honda because then it could align with the same OEM in NASCAR and MotoGP. https://t.co/KQ1KFkgukC
— Adam Stern (@A_S12) August 15, 2025
Conclusion
While Honda’s NASCAR entry remains unconfirmed, the buzz around a 2026 debut in the Cup Series is strong, with Trackhouse Racing as the leading candidate for a partnership due to their MotoGP connection, technical prowess, and brand alignment.
Until an official announcement, these remain informed speculations based on industry reports and NASCAR’s push for new manufacturers.
