NASCAR's Viking Motorsports have revealed the identity of just their second full-time driver in the team's history.
22-year-old Wisconsin native Parker Retzlaff will drive the team's No. 99 car for the 2026 O'Reilly Auto Parts season, becoming the second driver to begin a season with a full-time commitment from the team after Matt DiBenedetto.
DiBenedetto never actually drove all 33 races in either of his years with the team, coming for C. J. McLaughlin after five races in 2024 before finishing out the season.
The 34-year-old then started the 2025 season as the team's sole driver, but picked up just one top-ten finish in 30 races this year before being replaced by Connor Mosack in mid October.
Retzlaff excited for 'huge potential' at new team
Team owner Don Sackett said of the move in a team statement: “Parker brings youthful energy, talent, and a hunger to win that aligns perfectly with our Viking spirit.
"Danny [Efland, crew chief]'s technical expertise and leadership will strengthen our team in the race shop and at the track. Together, they represent the next evolution of Viking Motorsports as we continue to build a program that’s truly Forged to Race.”
Meanwhile, Retzlaff added: “Joining Viking Motorsports feels like the perfect fit. You can feel the passion and drive this team has from top to bottom. The No. 99 Chevy has huge potential, and I’m ready to give everything I’ve got for Don, Danny, and the whole Viking family. We’re going to fight hard every week.”
New crew chief Danny Efland also spoke on the move, saying: “I’m excited to join this team and work with Parker to bring the No. 99 program to the next level. There’s a real sense of purpose and pride in everything they do. We’re ready to dig in, refine our cars, and keep pushing toward the front.”
