Nick Sanchez has been given a second chance in the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series after Peterson Racing confirmed he would run a limited schedule for the team in 2026, and it comes at the expense of Austin Green.
Sanchez had started the year full-time at AM Racing, but lost his job seven events into the season when the team decided to shut down its operations.
Now, though, Sanchez has found a new (limited) home, set to run in Peterson Racing's No. 87 Chevrolet at several events, including June 13th at Pocono Raceway. Further appearances will then follow at three additional races – July 4th at Chicagoland Speedway, July 11th at EchoPark Speedway and July 25th at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Green, who has driven the No. 87 full-time in the O'Reilly Series so far this campaign, is now forced to miss those races and make way for Sanchez.
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Peterson Racing signs Nick Sanchez
“We are excited to have Nick join the Peterson Racing team,” stated Jody Measamer, crew chief for Peterson Racing, in an official statement.
“We are in a growth process with our program with our sights set on expanding to a multi-car operation in the future and this allows us to have a second driver in our cars at this point.
"The goal is to provide additional input and help us build our program further. Austin (Green) has been instrumental in our growth thus far and will continue to be a valuable asset to Peterson Racing.”
Nick Sanchez excited for Peterson Racing opportunity
Elsewhere, Sanchez himself added: “I am excited and ready for this opportunity with Peterson Racing.
“The Peterson Racing organization has all the pieces in place, and I hope to be a great asset to their growth.
"I have been in a similar situation before with their team alliance and am familiar with the people and processes.”
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Green: I'm disappointed
Green himself also spoke in the team release, revealing his disappointment but welcoming Sanchez to the team.
“Of course, I am disappointed in not being in the car for a few races, but I welcome Nick to the team,” stated Green.
“Doug Peterson has done a lot to get this organization to this point, and I am committed to helping with our continued growth.
"I will be in Pocono, Chicago, Atlanta and Indianapolis to learn and help the team any way I can.”
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