NASCAR playoff driver Nick Sanchez has revealed that he has been let go by Big Machine Racing.
Sanchez made his full-time debut in the Xfinity Series (now the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series) in 2025, securing the team’s second ever win and making the playoffs.
The 24-year-old’s young career has spanned three full-time seasons in NASCAR, including two in the Truck Series, with a 100% record of making the playoffs so far.
Sanchez had said as recently as late September that he would be coming back to Big Machine in 2026, making Monday’s announcement a major surprise. His replacement has not yet been announced.
Sanchez reveals ‘business decision’ on BMR release
In a statement on social media, Sanchez wrote: “Over the weekend, I was informed that I will not be driving the No.48 for Big Machine Racing in 2026. I’m grateful to Scott Borchetta, Patrick Donahue, everyone at Chevrolet and the whole team.
“I am proud of all we have accomplished this year including our win. Unfortunate timing and circumstances, but it’s strictly business. When one door closes another one opens. Excited about what is ahead!”
Just a couple of months ago, when asked whether he’d return to BMR, he had said: “Oh yeah. Unless they tell me otherwise. That’s our approach. It hasn’t even been a question. Just go race this year and go race next year.
“How we end this year is how we’re going to start next year, truthfully,” Sanchez said of his BMR team. “I think we’re in a good place. I feel like I’m driving the best I have in my career, and I still have a lot of room to get better and grow.”
