Trackhouse Sits on a NASCAR Goldmine. They Absolutely Won’t Sell.
Trackhouse Racing Stays at Three Cars: Owner Justin Marks Shuts Down Downsizing Rumors
What’s Happening at Trackhouse Racing?
There’s been a lot of talk lately about Trackhouse Racing possibly shrinking from three cars down to two. But team owner Justin Marks wants everyone to know: that’s not happening.
Here’s the simple breakdown of what’s going on and why Marks is standing firm.
The Background: Why People Are Talking
Important Point
A NASCAR Charter is like a permanent ticket that guarantees a team a spot in every Cup Series race. Since last year’s legal settlement made Charters permanent, their value has skyrocketed—rumors say $100 million each.
Here’s what sparked the rumors:
- Connor Zilisch (driver of the No. 87 car) is leaving Trackhouse for Hendrick Motorsports at the end of 2027
- Ross Chastain (No. 1 car) and Shane van Gisbergen (No. 97 car) also have contracts expiring at the end of 2027
- With all three drivers’ deals up at the same time, outsiders wondered: Will Trackhouse sell a Charter and downsize?
Justin Marks Says: "No Way"
Marks appeared on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio’s "Speedway" show and made his position crystal clear:
Why Trackhouse Is Staying at Three Cars
| Reason | What It Means |
|---|---|
| Chevrolet wants three cars | Their manufacturer partner prefers the three-car setup |
| Marks wants three cars | He believes in the current structure |
| Sponsors are committed to all three cars | Companies have signed deals expecting to be on all three teams |
Important Point
Marks said: "This isn’t an industry where you put yourself in a position to call sponsors and say, ‘We don’t need your money.’"
Selling a Charter would mean breaking promises to sponsors who’ve become "friends of ours."
What Happens Next? The Plan
Marks laid out the immediate priorities:
- Focus on the current season — No distractions right now
- Get Ross Chastain (No. 1) into the playoffs
- Keep Shane van Gisbergen (No. 97) in the playoffs
- Start the search for Zilisch’s replacement internally — After this season ends
Marks noted: "I’ve gotten phone calls and texts already" from interested drivers, but the team won’t rush the process.
The Big Picture: Trackhouse’s Growth Strategy
- Going to three cars was intentional, not accidental
- It happened quickly, but Marks is happy with where they are
- The business model works with three cars and committed sponsors
- Selling a $100 million Charter might sound tempting, but long-term relationships matter more
Summary
- Trackhouse Racing will NOT downsize to two cars
- Owner Justin Marks confirmed this on national radio
- Three cars = happy manufacturer (Chevrolet), happy owner, happy sponsors
- Connor Zilisch leaves for Hendrick after 2027
- Replacement search starts after this season
- Right now: all hands on deck for playoffs
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Why would anyone think Trackhouse would downsize?
Because all three drivers’ contracts expire at the same time (end of 2027), and Charters are now worth ~$100 million. Selling one would bring a huge payday.
What is a NASCAR Charter, exactly?
Think of it like a season ticket that never expires. It guarantees a team entry into every Cup Series race and a share of the prize money. Teams can buy, sell, or lease them.
Who is Connor Zilisch?
A rising young star who currently drives the No. 87 car for Trackhouse. He’s moving to powerhouse team Hendrick Motorsports after the 2027 season.
What about Ross Chastain and Shane van Gisbergen?
Both are talented drivers whose contracts also end after 2027. Their futures aren’t decided yet—but Marks wants them in the playoffs this year first.
Could Trackhouse change its mind later?
Never say never in racing, but Marks was very direct: the three-car model works, sponsors are locked in, and Chevrolet supports it. That’s a strong foundation.
Article based on reporting by Deb Williams, award-winning motorsports journalist and NMPA Hall of Fame inductee.