AM Racing has ceased operations effective immediately. The NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series organization tried to make things work on a last-minute basis for the 2026 season, but after not having raced for weeks, the news is official.
Matt Weaver of Motorsport shared the news on Friday afternoon. AM Racing has closed up shop and relieved all of their employees of their duties. After the 2025 season, AM Racing attempted to sell off its team and assets to Sigma Performance Services Racing. However, that deal fell through and AMR tried to race in 2026 on a bit of a last-minute deal.
"AM Racing has notified employees that it has formally ceased operations and released everyone from their duties," Weaver reported on X, formerly known as Twitter. "VP/comp Matthew Lucas told employees that he made efforts to stabilize AMR but the inability to continue normal business activity eventually resulted in its closure."
The NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series field races by at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
AM Racing was working uphill in the 2026 season. They had a lot going against them, and to the credit of the organization, they did what they could. Nick Sanchez was in a similar position, where he lost his ride to Patrick Staropoli surprisingly at a time where there weren't many open spots.
The team made it to seven of the eight races that they initially entered. Rockingham during Easter weekend, the team withdrew and hasn't made it back to the track since then. Atlanta was a real highlight for the organization as Sanchez finished P3 with a real chance to win. He was P16 at Darlington for his second-best finish. He finshed P33 or worse in four of his races.
Ford Racing continues to have no representation in the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series. It is a puzzling and strange time to see an OEM pull away like Ford has this season. Perhaps it is a year to restructure and refocus? Then again, Ford is now involved in F1 with Max Verstappen and the Red Bull team. So, it might be a sign of real change in their marketing and performance goals.
It is always unfortunate to see a team close its doors. Still no word on Hettinger Racing. The only other Ford organization this season, the No. 5 hasn't made an appearance since Talladega with J.J. Yeley.
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on May 15, 2026, where it first appeared in the Racing section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
