Young NASCAR star Leland Honeyman set for first drive of 2026 at Charlotte

Young NASCAR driver Leland Honeyman is set to make his first Truck Series race start since 2022 next week at Charlotte.

The 21-year-old debuted in the series at Bristol at the age of just 17, but moved up to take O'Reilly Series drives from that point on and hasn't returned to Trucks – until now.

Honeyman will drive the No. 62 truck for Halmar Friesen Racing, his first ride in any NASCAR national series this year after leaving Cope Family Racing in the O'Reilly Series at the end of last year.

He will be part of a packed field at Charlotte, in a race which will also feature Shane van Gisbergen in his first Truck Series race at an oval since 2023.

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Honeyman excited for return to Truck Series

“I’m excited for the opportunity to work with a team that has such a strong reputation in the sport,” Honeyman said in a team statement. “I’m grateful for the chance to get behind the wheel of the No. 62 and compete with a group that knows how to run up front.”

He added: “The people involved honestly made it feel like the right fit. I’ve been going to some of the races this year and sitting on top of the box to get a feel for the team, the chemistry, and how everyone works together so I can be as dialed in as possible heading into Charlotte. Everyone’s motivated, competitive, and focused on getting results.”

“I think it starts with the people. Watching Jimmy call races on top of the box has been really impressive. There’s a lot of experience behind this team, strong equipment, and everyone understands what it takes to compete at a high level and run up front.”

Team owner and No. 52 driver Stewart Friesen added: “Leland’s put in the work to get comfortable with our group, and we’re looking forward to having him in the No. 62 at Charlotte. He’s been engaged with the team and we’re excited to see him hit the track Friday night.”