23XI Racing announced today that development driver Corey Heim will compete in a 12-race NASCAR Cup Series schedule in 2026, beginning with an attempt at the Daytona 500 on Feb. 15.
The part-time schedule marks the most extensive Cup slate of Heim’s young career and underscores the team’s methodical approach to his progression toward a full-time ride.
Heim, 23, the defending NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series champion, will pilot the No. 67 Toyota Camry XSE in a slate that spans superspeedways, traditional ovals and marquee venues, including stops at Kansas, Texas, Charlotte, Nashville, San Diego, Chicagoland, Indianapolis, a return to Daytona later in the season, Darlington, a second race at Charlotte, and Homestead-Miami Speedway.
“I’m excited and honored to continue my progression with 23XI,” Heim said in a team release. “Every driver wants to race as much as possible, but I’m fully committed to the approach that I am taking with the team. I look forward to more Cup races this year and the opportunity to grow and expand my race-craft on and off the track.”
Heim’s expanded Cup program continues a developmental arc that began last season, when he made four starts with 23XI Racing.
His best result came with a sixth-place finish in September at Bristol Motor Speedway, and he also posted solid runs at Kansas earlier in 2025.
Prior to his Cup opportunities, Heim dominated the Truck Series in 2025 with 12 victories, the most in a single season on that circuit and culminating with a championship.
Denny Hamlin, co-owner of 23XI Racing, emphasized the long-term vision guiding Heim’s schedule.
“We know the future is really bright for Corey, and we’re working with him to ensure that he is as prepared as possible when his time comes to race full time,” Hamlin said in the release. “We’re continuing to stick to our plan and taking a long-term approach, while also remaining focused on what is collectively best for our organization and our partners as we look to continue being a competitive, winning organization each weekend.”
Veteran crew chief Bootie Barker will return atop the pit box for Heim’s No. 67 team in 2026. Barker guided Heim through his Cup starts last season and previously led other 23XI entries to victory in the Cup Series.
23XI Racing said Heim will also remain active in the Truck Series with Tricon Garage on a part-time basis, with details of that schedule to be announced later.
