Corey Day has signed a long-term contract extension with Hendrick Motorsports, the team announced on Thursday. Day, 20, is currently in his first full NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series season in the No. 17 Chevrolet Camaro SS.
The deal to keep Day within the organization was signed on Wednesday. As of now, Day is confirmed to be remaining in the No. 17 Chevrolet next season with continued sponsorship from HendrickCars.com. He’s also running a part-time schedule in the NASCAR Cup Series in 2027, with further details to be announced at a later date.
Hitting the Ground Running
As of Thursday, Day sits fifth in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series standings. He’s 46 points behind leader Justin Allgaier – a tall task but not outside of his capabilities. Day has top-10s at all six of the remaining eight tracks on which he’s already raced this season.
“When I joined Hendrick Motorsports, I knew I had a lot to learn. And I still do,” Day said. “But the people here have really embraced me and invested a lot of time in helping me grow, both as a driver and a person. Mr. and Mrs. Hendrick give us all the resources we could possibly need. I’m so grateful to them, Jeff Gordon, Jeff Andrews and the 500 teammates who put so much into our success. I’m focused on winning a championship together this year and bringing many more trophies home to Hendrick Motorsports in the future.”
Just last month, Corey Day’s future with Hendrick Motorsports was thrown into question. With Alex Bowman stepping away from the NASCAR Cup Series after 2027, Day was considered by many to be a front-runner to take over the No. 48 Chevrolet. That ride ultimately went to Connor Zilisch, a Hendrick pickup from Trackhouse Racing. Now Hendrick has shown they still have plans for Day’s future in the organization.
Quick Progress
With limited experience racing on pavement, Day began 2026 under scrutiny for run-ins with other drivers. As he refined his craft, Day became a championship contender with two race wins. He broke through at Talladega Superspeedway in April, then backed it up three races later at Dover Motor Speedway in May.
“There’s no substitute for seat time, which makes Corey’s progress even more impressive,” said Hendrick Motorsports Vice Chairman Jeff Gordon. “We see growth every weekend when he gets in the car. He puts in the work and isn’t afraid to ask questions and apply what he learns. The Cup races next year will give him another opportunity to gain valuable experience and challenge himself at the highest level. It’s going to be fun to watch.”
“What Corey has accomplished in such a short time is remarkable,” added team owner Rick Hendrick. “He came to us with generational talent but almost no experience racing on pavement. The fact that he’s already competing for a championship at this level is extraordinary, and he’s just beginning to scratch the surface. We love Corey’s character and how he fits our organization, and we’re proud to have him with us for many years to come.”
