Nick Sanchez Rejoins Competition with Peterson Racing in Multi‑Event O’Reilly Series Agreement

After losing his ride twice following the 2025 season, Nick Sanchez is returning to competition in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series.

He will pilot the No. 87 Peterson Racing entry in a series of upcoming O’Reilly events, beginning with the Pocono race on June 13, followed by Chicagoland on July 4, Atlanta on July 11, and Indianapolis on July 25.

“I am excited and ready for this opportunity with Peterson Racing,” Sanchez said in a team release. “The Peterson Racing organization has all the necessary resources, and I hope to contribute significantly to its growth. Having previously worked with their alliance, I am familiar with the team’s people and processes.”

The team has been fielding Austin Green full‑time this season, a driver who recorded two top‑10 finishes in the first 16 races. Green’s upcoming two events will be road‑course races at Sonoma and San Diego. His strongest results have come on road courses, including a second‑place finish at the Charlotte Roval last year and a fourth‑place finish at Sonoma.

“While I am disappointed not to be in the car for a few races, I welcome Nick to the team,” Green said. “Doug Peterson has helped build this organization, and I am committed to supporting its continued growth. I will be present at Pocono, Chicago, Atlanta and Indianapolis to learn and assist the team.”

Sanchez returns after losing two rides in just a few months

Nick Sanchez, Big Machine Racing

Photo by: Logan Riely / Getty Images

Sanchez, the 2022 ARCA Menards Series champion, captured two victories in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series before becoming a full‑time competitor in the NASCAR O’Reilly Series in 2025. While driving for Big Machine Racing, he recorded his first career win at Atlanta and finished 11th in the driver standings.

In an abrupt split, Sanchez was released from Big Machine Racing during the off‑season and later signed a short‑term deal to drive the No. 25 for AM Racing. However, after competing in the first seven races, AM Racing ceased operations, leaving Sanchez without a ride once again.

“We are excited to welcome Nick to the Peterson Racing team,” said crew chief Jody Measamer. “Our program is currently in a growth phase, with plans to expand to a multi‑car operation in the future. Adding a second driver allows us to gather more input and further develop the program. Austin (Green) has been instrumental to our progress and will remain a valuable asset.”

Source link