23XI Racing has confirmed a significant lineup change for the 2027 NASCAR Cup Series season. The squad announced that Corey Heim will be a full-time Cup Series driver next season, replacing Riley Herbst in the No. 35 Toyota Camry XSE.
The announcement occurred ahead of the NASCAR weekend at Nashville Superspeedway. Heim, the current NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series champion, has participated in 23XI Racing’s driver development program and is largely regarded as one of Toyota’s brightest young prospects. The 23-year-old has previously competed in nine NASCAR Cup Series events with the company, including the 2026 Daytona 500. He is also expected to compete in 12 events this season in the No. 67 automobile.
Bubba Wallace Support Corey Heim’s NASCAR Cup Series Promotion
Bubba Wallace hailed the announcement and commended Heim for getting the chance via his efforts with the team.
“It’s amazing, congrats to him. He’s obviously putting in the effort. Yes, it’s a huge step for him. I believe he has a lot to look forward to. ”
The NASCAR Cup Series driver said Heim has frequently asked him for advice throughout his 23XI Racing career.
“He’s approached me for various questions and guidance over the past two years that we’ve worked together. “
Wallace discussed the difficulty of joining NASCAR’s premier division. While he admitted that the move was challenging for any driver, he was optimistic about Heim’s prospects.
“It’s a tough leap regardless of how much success you’ve had in the Cup, or what you think you have and whatnot. ” I believe it is vital to assist Corey in remaining grounded and ahead of this.
Looking ahead to Heim’s full-time debut, Wallace stated, “He’ll be competitive without a doubt. ” He’ll be a great time. “
Bubba Wallace Honors Riley Herbst
While discussing Heim’s advancement, Wallace also mentioned Riley Herbst, who will vacate the No. 35 seat at the end of the 2026 season.
Wallace emphasized that his remarks were not meant to draw parallels between the two drivers. Instead, he emphasized Herbst’s personality and the good influence he has had on the group.
“I’ll admit it’ll be difficult to beat, but not in comparison to Corey. This is for everyone who visits. Riley Herbst, one of the most sincere guys to ever walk the planet. One of the most modest children ever.
Wallace concluded his congratulations by emphasizing Herbst’s beneficial impact on people around him.
“I’m rooting for him in every way, as well as for his future endeavors, wherever they may be. ” Riley Herbst is a straight-up guy, and everyone in this room would be a better person by being around him.
23XI Racing Looks Forward to the Future
Denny Hamlin, the co-owner of the team, also welcomed Heim to the full-time NASCAR Cup Series roster.
“We’re thrilled to add Corey to our full-time roster next season and can’t wait to watch him compete every weekend in 2027. ” Corey is a talented driver who improves with each race. He has a bright future in the sport and is joining a team that is building a strong basis. “
Hamlin also thanked Herbst for assisting in the formation of the No. 35 squad.
“We are grateful to Riley for all he has done to help get the 35 team up and running, and we appreciate the effort he and the team will continue to put in this season to be competitive every week. “
For Heim, the promotion represents the achievement of a lifetime ambition.
“I’ve wanted to be a Cup driver since I was five years old. My family and I have given a lot to get me to this point, and I am very grateful for it, Heim said.
He added: “When the chance to work as a development driver for 23XI Racing presented itself, I followed my instincts and realized this was the location where I wanted to establish a long-term career. ” I can’t wait for the 2027 season to begin.
The statement provides 23XI Racing with a future NASCAR Cup Series lineup that includes Bubba Wallace, Tyler Reddick, and Corey Heim as the team continues to expand its presence in NASCAR.
