Nathan Nicholson will attempt his NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series debut in 2026 with Freedom Racing Enterprises, the team announced Jan. 21.
Nicholson will drive three road course races in the No. 76, beginning at the Streets of St. Petersburg and following at Watkins Glen International and Naval Base Coronado.
Whelen will sponsor the effort.
“I was looking to make the step up to NASCAR at the right time and with the right people and when the 2026 NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series schedule was announced, I knew right away that the street courses presented a great opportunity for me,” Nicholson said in a team release. “Spencer [Boyd, owner/driver] and I share a natural connection through our Midwestern roots and karting background, but what truly set this team apart were the values and integrity of the entire organization.
“I knew that Spencer would have my back as I made this move and I’m honored to drive the No. 76. I am also incredibly grateful to Whelen for their continued support as we begin this next chapter together. The team and I couldn’t be more excited about this opportunity.”
“Nathan is precisely the type of driver and person that our team wants to help advance our program,” Boyd added. “We’ve been monitoring his progress and have been impressed with his performance. I believe Nathan has the personal character and driving potential that will turn heads in the garage as well as make fans instant followers of him.
“This is an important step in the trajectory of FRE as we make yet another step towards building a team that will compete at the highest level of motorsports for years to come.”
Nicholson’s starts will mark the first for the No. 76 since the team’s inception that Boyd will not drive. FRE also fielded the No. 67 part time in 2025.
Kevin Rutherford is the executive editor of Frontstretch, a position he gained in 2025 after being the managing editor since 2015, and serving on the editing staff since 2013.
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