NASCAR Fans Are Not Happy About Sheldon Creed’s New Team

NASCAR fans have expressed frustration following the announcement that Sheldon Creed will leave Haas Factory Team after 2026. Creed, who currently leads the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series championship, signed a multiyear deal to drive Sam Hunt Racing's No. 26 Toyota. Creed admitted at Las Vegas Motor Speedway that leaving Haas was not his first choice, noting that business considerations dictated the move.

Fans and observers view the switch as a downgrade, as Sam Hunt Racing's No. 26 car currently sits 18th in points without a top-five finish in 2026. Dean Thompson, the car's current driver, will move in the opposite direction to join Haas Factory Team. Despite the perceived step backward, Sam Hunt Racing hopes Creed's arrival will elevate the organization.