Dean Thompson Returns to Pocono with Kettle Chips Sponsorship

Dean Thompson Returns to Pocono with Kettle Chips Sponsorship

Dean Thompson is set to take the wheel of the No. 26 Uglies Kettle Chips‑branded GR Supra for his second appearance in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series at Pocono Raceway this weekend. The 250‑mile event marks a return to the 2.5‑mile triangular layout for the driver, who previously contested the same race last season and finished outside the top ten.

Thompson will be guided by Sam Hunt Racing, a program that has logged six organizational starts at the Pennsylvania venue, its best result a 14th‑place finish. The partnership brings together a young driver with a team that has been building its pedigree on the East Coast circuit, aiming to break into the top tier of the series.

A Brief Look at Sam Hunt Racing’s Pocono Legacy

Sam Hunt Racing’s history at Pocono includes six starts, a record that reflects both the team’s perseverance and the competitive nature of the series. Their highest finish to date, a 14th place, came in 2024, a result that the organization hopes to improve upon with Thompson’s fresh perspective and the added firepower of the Kettle Chips sponsorship.

As the green flag drops, the No. 26 car will be under close scrutiny, not only for its performance but also for the growing synergy between snack brands and NASCAR’s developmental series. Dean Thompson’s second outing at Pocono could serve as a catalyst for future opportunities, both on and off the track.