Niece Motorsports has unveiled a new move. In 2026, they will put 19-year-old Landen Lewis to drive part-time in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series.
Lewis is not just a rookie. This is the champion of the Late Model Stock Series of the zMAX CARS Tour. He won races in the hard short tracks and already gained popularity in the local racing.
Now, he’s taking the next step in his career with help from NASCAR legends Kevin Harvick and Ron Hornaday Jr. His journey from short-track star to NASCAR Truck driver shows what hard work and good mentoring can do for young racers chasing their dreams.
Landen Lewis Thanks Niece Motorsports for the Chance
Landen Lewis couldn’t hide his excitement when talking about his big NASCAR step.
“I am so thankful for this opportunity to join Niece Motorsports in 2026,” said Lewis. “I’m super excited to join Niece Motorsports in 2026 and look forward to having a solid year learning all I can.”
He said he wants to learn about the trucks, build chemistry with the crew, and grow as a driver.
“I can’t wait to get there and start working alongside everyone,” Lewis said. “It’s been a great year in ’25, and I’m looking forward to more in ’26.”
Lewis’s attitude shows he’s not just talented but humble too. He knows the jump from local tracks to NASCAR isn’t easy, but he’s ready to learn. That’s what makes this story special: it is not just about speed, but about growth and teamwork.
Kevin Harvick and Ron Hornaday Believe in Him
Lewis is lucky to have two NASCAR greats cheering him on. Kevin Harvick and Ron Hornaday Jr. both know what it takes to win, and they see something rare in him.
“I just don’t think there are many kids left like Landen,” said Harvick. “When you look at his work ethic, determination, and ability, and the sacrifices that he makes with his time, it’s contagious.”
Harvick said that people naturally want to support Lewis because of his energy and focus. He even admitted that at first, they didn’t plan to run their car full-time, but Lewis changed their minds.
“We were like, ‘Hey, we need to give him this opportunity,’ and it led him to the next one, Harvick said.”
Hornaday, who also mentored Lewis, praised his talent and drive.
“Nobody deserves this opportunity with Niece Motorsports more than Landen,” Hornaday said. “He’s worked his tail off to get here, and I couldn’t be happier for him.”
When legends like Harvick and Hornaday speak that highly of a young driver, you know he’s something special.
Niece Motorsports Sees a Future Star
Niece Motorsports CEO Cody Efaw said they’ve had their eyes on Lewis for a while.
“We have always tried to find that next young talent who we think is a future star in the sport,” Efaw said. “Landen Lewis is just that.”
Efaw compared Lewis to Ross Chastain and Carson Hocevar, two other drivers who grew their NASCAR careers with Niece.
“He’s been on our radar for a couple of years now,” Efaw said. “We think Landen has the opportunity to put our team back in the spotlight as a threat week in and week out.”
Efaw also believes that with Harvick and Hornaday guiding him, Lewis is set for success.
“With mentors like Kevin and Ron in his corner, combined with our team, Landen definitely has a bright future ahead of him, Efaw said.”