Rodney Childers Joins JR Motorsports as Crew Chief for 2026 O’Reilly Auto Parts Series
Rodney Childers, renowned for his successful tenure in the NASCAR Cup Series, has been confirmed as the crew chief for JR Motorsports’ No. 1 team in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, effective in 2026. This marks Childers’ inaugural venture as a crew chief in this series, where he will manage a dual-driver lineup featuring Carson Kvapil and Connor Zilisch.
Dale Earnhardt Jr., co-owner of JR Motorsports, expressed enthusiasm for Childers’ addition, emphasizing their long-standing relationship. “Rodney’s resume and career speak for themselves. He and I have known each other since childhood, and I’m thankful that this opportunity allowed us to work together,” said Earnhardt.
Childers arrives at JR Motorsports after a brief spell with Spire Motorsports, where challenges in collaboration with driver Justin Haley led to his departure earlier this spring. Prior to Spire, Childers earned acclaim with 40 race victories and a Cup Series championship alongside Kevin Harvick at Stewart-Haas Racing.
“I’m so excited to be joining the JRM family,” Childers remarked about the new role. “The success of Dale, Kelley, and [Rick Hendrick] has been remarkable. I look forward to leading two very talented young drivers in Kvapil and Zilisch.”
Currently, Kvapil leads the No. 1 car, while Andrew Overstreet will transition to a different role within JR Motorsports next season. The team’s focus now shifts to building on this foundation as they prepare for competitive challenges ahead in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.
