Joe Gibbs Racing’s recent signing of 17-year-old Brent Crews as a Toyota Development Driver for the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series has sparked controversy among fans. Many are questioning why Corey Heim, the 2025 Truck Series champion and one of Toyota’s most talented drivers, is being sidelined in favor of a younger talent.
After the announcement of Crews joining Joe Gibbs Racing, fans took to social media to express their frustration over Heim being overlooked once again. Despite Heim’s impressive performance in the Truck Series, with 12 wins and a series-high 19 top-5 finishes, he has yet to secure a seat for the upcoming season.
Fans have been vocal about their disappointment, with one fan stating, “The screwing of Corey Heim continues,” while another suggested that Heim should have been given the opportunity alongside Crews. The decision to sign Crews over Heim has left many questioning the team’s priorities and the future direction of Joe Gibbs Racing.
In response to the opportunity to race in NASCAR’s second-tier series with Joe Gibbs Racing, Brent Crews expressed his gratitude and excitement. He will be piloting the #19 Toyota GR Supra for 29 of the 33 races in the 2026 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. Crews, who will turn 18 on March 30, is not eligible for the first four races of the season due to his age but is looking forward to making the most of the opportunity once he becomes eligible.
Crews, a talented young driver from North Carolina, has had a successful junior career in karting, Trans-Am, and the CARS Tour. He has also shown promise in the ARCA ranks and the Truck Series, making him a valuable addition to Joe Gibbs Racing’s lineup.
As fans continue to debate the decision to sign Crews over Heim, it remains to be seen how the young driver will perform in the upcoming season. With Heim still without a seat for 2026, the spotlight will be on Crews as he looks to make a name for himself in the competitive world of NASCAR racing.
