23XI Racing has confirmed that Corey Heim will drive full-time for the team in the NASCAR Cup Series in 2027, replacing Riley Herbst in the No. 35 car.

Heim, the dominant 2025 Truck Series champion, has been increasing his Cup Series racing year by year since joining the team as a development driver in 2024.

The 23-year-old is scheduled for 12 Cup races this year, with the fifth of those coming this weekend at Nashville, before he steps up to run the full 36-race calendar next year.

Heim has been one of the most hyped prospects in the sport for some time now, with some fans questioning why it's taken this long to get him into a Cup seat.

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Corey Heim finally gets full-time Cup Series drive

Herbst, the driver he is replacing in the No. 35, is expected to join Legacy Motor Club for the 2027 season.

Heim said of his new seat: “Since I was five years old, all I ever wanted was to be a Cup driver. My family and I have sacrificed a ton to get me to this level, and I don’t take that for granted.

"When the opportunity came up to be a development driver with 23XI Racing, I trusted my gut and knew this was the place I wanted to build a long-term career. From everyone at 23XI to the team at Toyota Racing, I’ve been blessed to have support from so many people along the way. I can’t wait for the 2027 season to begin.”

What 23XI Racing has said about Corey Heim's promotion

Co-owner Denny Hamlin

“We’re excited to welcome Corey to our full-time roster next season and look forward to watching him race every weekend in 2027. Corey is a gifted driver who is continuing to get better and better with each race he runs.

"He has a bright future in the sport and joins a team that is continuing to build a solid foundation. We’re thankful to Riley for all he has done to help get the No. 35 team going and appreciate the work that he and the team will continue to do this season to be competitive each week.”

Toyota Racing Development U.S.A. president Tyler Gibbs

“Corey is truly a special talent that we have enjoyed watching grow and develop over the past several years. He is an example of trusting the process and he has more than earned this full-time Cup Series ride due to his hard work and dedication to his craft.

"We couldn’t be prouder of Corey and what he has already achieved. With the support he will have at 23XI Racing, everyone at Toyota and TRD has full confidence that he is in the position to continue building on his success in the years to come.”

Team president Steve Lauletta

“As 23XI continues to grow and evolve, we’re excited to introduce Corey as a full-time driver in 2027. He has already been a valuable member of the team as our development driver, and we’re eager for his Cup Series career to begin next season.

"Expanding to three cars last year was a major step for our team, and we look forward to 23XI’s continued evolution with Corey behind the wheel full time.”

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