Thu Feb 05 00:40:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Joe Gibbs Racing Poised for Strong 2026 Season with Consistent Driver Lineup and Chase Format Return
The Story:
Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) enters the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season with high expectations, retaining all four driver-crew chief pairings from a successful 2025 season. According to a NASCAR.com preview, the team secured 13 points-paying victories in 2025, and with veterans Denny Hamlin, Chase Briscoe, and Christopher Bell, along with rising star Ty Gibbs, JGR is positioned to be a top title contender. The return of “The Chase” championship format could particularly benefit drivers like Hamlin and Bell who consistently perform well throughout the season.
Key Points:
- Joe Gibbs Racing retains all four driver-crew chief pairings from the 2025 season.
- The team achieved 13 points-paying victories in the 2025 season.
- Denny Hamlin finished 2nd in the 2025 Cup Series standings with 6 wins.
- Chase Briscoe had a strong first season with JGR, finishing 3rd in the standings with 3 wins.
- Christopher Bell led JGR in top 10 finishes in 2025 and has multiple Championship 4 appearances.
- Ty Gibbs is still seeking his first Cup Series win but showed improvement with several top-five finishes on diverse tracks.
- NASCAR has returned to “The Chase” format for the championship.
Key Takeaways:
- Consistency is a key strength for JGR entering the 2026 season.
- Denny Hamlin is a strong championship contender, potentially aided by the return of the Chase format.
- Chase Briscoe’s performance in 2025 suggests he will be a significant force in 2026.
- Christopher Bell’s consistency makes him a perennial threat for the championship.
- Ty Gibbs is showing signs of breaking out and could contend for his first Cup Series win.
First Piper 