Championship-winning NASCAR crew chief to partner with Kyle Busch in 2026

Following the exit of Randall Burnett from the team, Richard Childress Racing has named Kyle Busch's new crew chief for the 2026 NASCAR Cup Season.

Jim Pohlman will climb atop the pit box for the No. 8 Chevrolet next year as the organization desperately seeks improvement. Pohlman is a proven champion, leading Justin Allgaier and the No. 7 JR Motorsports Chevrolet to the 2024 NASCAR Xfinity Series championship. The duo have combined to win nine races over the last three years, and are expected to make the Championship 4 for the third consecutive year.

Pohlman is no stranger to RCR, having worked at the historic team in the past as the head of research and development. During his tenure, he also got a handful of opportunities as a crew chief.

“Everyone at Richard Childress Racing remains focused on improving performance and is committed to putting the right people in place, including on the No. 8 team,” said Richard Childress, Chairman and CEO of Richard Childress Racing. “Jim Pohlman is a relentless competitor in the garage and fits in well with our mission and approach at RCR. He was well-respected during his previous tenure in Welcome, and we know that he will do a great job leading the No. 8 team and Kyle Busch.”

With Burnett leaving to become Connor Zilisch's Cup Series crew chief at Trackhouse, Andy Street has been filling the gap as the interim crew chief for Busch.

2025 has been a difficult year for the two-time NASCAR Cup champion, as he currently sits 22nd in points and remains winless for the second consecutive season. The 40-year-old has never ended a Cup season outside the top 20 in points.