O'Reilly Auto Parts Series
The NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series is the second tier of NASCAR's three national series, sitting below the Cup Series and above the Craftsman Truck Series. The series serves as the primary developmental level for drivers, teams, and manufacturers preparing for Cup competition. The series has carried multiple names across its history. It launched in 1982 as the Budweiser Late Model Sportsman Series, then operated as the Busch Grand National Series from 1984 through 2002, the Busch Series from 2003 through 2007, the Nationwide Series from 2008 through 2014, and the Xfinity Series from 2015 through 2025. O'Reilly Auto Parts assumed title sponsorship in August 2025, and the series adopted its current name beginning with the 2026 season. The 2026 season is the 45th season in series history. Notable drivers have used the series as a stepping stone to Cup Series success, including Kevin Harvick, Kyle Busch, Carl Edwards, Joey Logano, Chase Elliott, and others. The 2026 season also adopts a new Chase format consisting of nine races and 12 drivers, distinct from the Cup Series Chase format. Jesse Love of Richard Childress Racing entered 2026 as the defending series champion. Races air exclusively on The CW Network. The 2026 schedule includes 33 races, most run in support of NASCAR Cup Series weekends.
