Young’s Motorsports announced Wednesday that the organization and NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series driver Ryan Ellis will part ways following the conclusion of the 2026 season.
Ellis joined the Mooresville, N.C.-based organization as the full-time driver of its No. 02 Chevrolet for the 2026 campaign, bringing veteran experience, determination and a strong portfolio of partners to the longtime NASCAR organization.
Together, Ellis and Young’s Motorsports have navigated the highs and lows of a demanding season, highlighted by a career-best sixth-place finish in the season-opening race at Daytona (Fla.) International Speedway after starting 32nd.
While both parties will pursue different opportunities beginning in 2027, Young’s Motorsports remains appreciative of Ellis’s contributions to the organization and the relationships developed throughout their season together.
“Ryan has been a tremendous ambassador for Young’s Motorsports, and we are grateful for everything he has brought to our organization this season,” said Young’s Motorsports team principal Tyler Young.
“He came into our program determined to help us succeed, and that commitment has never wavered. Ryan has worked incredibly hard with our guys, represented Young’s Motorsports professionally and brought some tremendous partners and people into our family.
“While our paths will be different in 2027, there is nothing but respect and appreciation for Ryan and everything we have accomplished together. Everyone at Young’s Motorsports wishes him nothing but success with whatever comes next.
“Most importantly, though, we’re not finished yet. We still have races remaining together this season, and our focus is on giving Ryan everything we can to compete for strong finishes and hopefully create a few more memorable moments together before the year is over.”
Young’s Motorsports also extends its appreciation to the partners who have supported Ellis and the No. 02 Chevrolet throughout the 2026 season and helped make the program possible.
Ellis and the No. 02 Young’s Motorsports team will remain focused on finishing the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series season on a strong note.
Young’s Motorsports will announce its plans for the No. 02 Chevrolet and its 2027 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series program at a later date.
— Young’s Motorsports —