As the clock struck midnight last night, a seismic NASCAR change came into effect, ending one era and ushering in another.

Having been the title sponsor of NASCAR's second series since 2015, the NASCAR Xfinity Series is now officially no more. Instead, as of midnight, NASCAR's second category will be officially known as the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series.

NASCAR confirmed the news back in August last year, announcing a multi-year partnership with O'Reilly Auto Parts that they claim will be a bold new chapter for the series.

As well as O'Reilly Auto Parts gaining title sponsor privileges, their new partnership with NASCAR also includes promotional opportunities and brand integrations in partnership with The CW Network, which began to exclusively broadcast the Xfinity Series in 2025 and will continue to be the exclusive home of the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series following its rebrand.

NASCAR TODAY: Michael Jordan splashes out as Cup Series champion signs new racing deal

Why has NASCAR renamed Xfinity Series?

Speaking back in August, NASCAR President Steve O'Donnell revealed why O'Reilly Auto Parts was such a fantastic parterns as the sport's second series entered a new era.

“Like the great sport of NASCAR, O’Reilly Auto Parts was born in America and built on the hard work and drive of passionate people,” NASCAR President Steve O’Donnell said.

“This new partnership allows us to continue to fuel that passion for the next generation of NASCAR’s stars and fans while celebrating the journey we’ve been on together for decades.”

Elsewhere, O'Reilly Auto Parts President Brent Kirby said: “Our company is rooted in the same values that define NASCAR - teamwork, enthusiasm, and dedication.

"You’ll see those in action when our customers walk through our doors. We know they need fast service, and Team O’Reilly will get them the parts they need quickly, with excellent customer service.

"We welcome all fans to stop by our stores and see how our team can help keep them running.”

READ MORE: Fixing NASCAR: Mark Martin says it’s time to chase fans, not TV ratings

NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series name history

Of course, this is not the first time that NASCAR's second series has been renamed.

Below is the full name history of what is now known as the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series.

  • 1982 - 1983: Budweiser Late Model Sportsman Series
  • 1984 - 2002: Busch Grand National Series
  • 2003 - 2007: Busch Series
  • 2008 - 2014: Nationwide Series
  • 2015 - 2025: Xfinity Series
  • 2026 - Present: O'Reilly Auto Parts Series

When does the 2026 O'Reilly Auto Parts Series start?

The 2026 NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series schedule officially stars at Daytona International Speedway on February 14 (5PM ET, The CW).

READ MORE: Tony Stewart's 'easy' way to handle NASCAR fear factor