My 2026 NASCAR Team Report Card: Every Team, Graded

In an evaluation of the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season, the writer graded every team from best to worst, highlighting the dominance of the sport's top four organizations. Joe Gibbs Racing, Hendrick Motorsports, Team Penske, and 23XI Racing accounted for 31 of 36 race victories across the campaign. Kyle Larson secured the Cup championship for Hendrick Motorsports, while Joe Gibbs Racing secured an A grade after winning 10 races and sending all four drivers to the Chase.

The writer notes that teams outside the elite tier faced significant struggles, with only Spire Motorsports, RFK Racing, and Trackhouse Racing also capturing race victories. Meanwhile, Richard Childress Racing was left ungraded following the tragic passing of lead driver Kyle Busch in May from pneumonia and sepsis. Looking ahead to 2027, multiple driver and crew chief changes were detailed across the garage, including lineup adjustments at Trackhouse, Wood Brothers Racing, and 23XI Racing.