Alpha Prime Racing announced that it will compete in the 2027 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series using Ford Mustangs, kicking off at the Daytona International Speedway event on February 20, 2027.
Strategic Manufacturer Alignment
The decision follows a comprehensive evaluation by the team’s leadership, which weighed improvements in equipment quality, development opportunities and access to Ford’s extensive technical ecosystem against the challenges of transitioning manufacturers.
To smooth the shift, Alpha Prime Racing will introduce Ford Mustangs into its No. 44 and No. 45 programs for the remainder of the current season, allowing drivers and crew to become familiar with the new platform before the full‑time switch next year.
Under the new arrangement, the team has secured Roush Yates Engines as its engine supplier and will integrate Ford technology across its operations, a move that is expected to bolster infrastructure, expand personnel and create clearer career pathways within Ford‑affiliated organizations.
Co‑owner Tommy Joe Martins said the team operates at the top of the series’ second tier and believes the stronger manufacturer alignment will help preserve its competitive position, while co‑owner Caesar Bacarella described the change as pivotal for the team’s resourceful identity.
President Jusan Hamilton noted that discussions are ongoing with drivers Brennan Poole and Lavar Scott, though a complete 2027 driver roster has not yet been finalized, and the organization has not confirmed a formal alliance with an existing Ford NASCAR Cup Series team.
The shift represents a strategic realignment that could enhance Alpha Prime Racing’s long‑term sustainability, offering greater alignment with Ford’s resources while maintaining the team’s competitive spirit and its reputation for punching above its resource constraints.