Corey Heim, the 2025 NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series champion, has officially signed with 23XI Racing to contest the full 2026 season behind the wheel of the No. 35 Toyota. The announcement marks a pivotal moment for both the driver and the team, as they look to blend youthful talent with veteran insight.
A New Chapter for Heim
The 23‑year‑old Georgia native brings a blend of youthful energy and proven durability, having already logged nine Cup Series starts over the past three seasons. His best finish in those appearances came at Bristol Motor Speedway, where he captured a sixth‑place result that highlighted his potential on short tracks.
Heim’s résumé also includes four starts this year in the No. 67 23XI Racing Toyota, with a best showing of 15th at Kansas. He will now return to Nashville, a track where his previous debut yielded a 29th‑place finish, aiming to improve on that result.
Hamlin’s Optimism
Team owner Denny Hamlin expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting that the deal required patience but promises long‑term payoff. Hamlin highlighted Heim’s willingness to embrace a ‘notebook year’ — a period focused on learning rather than immediate results.
Heim echoed that sentiment, encouraging teammates and fans alike to take bigger risks and make mistakes now to be better prepared for the future. He described the upcoming season as an opportunity to experiment and grow.
Looking Ahead
The collaboration underscores 23XI Racing’s strategy to blend veteran leadership with fresh talent, aiming to maintain competitiveness across the Cup Series. With Hamlin’s extensive Cup experience and Heim’s rapid progression, the team hopes to translate early lessons into sustained success.