Austin Green and Peterson Racing Part Ways After Disappointing Season

Photo by: Michael C. JohnsonAustin Green’s 2026 NASCAR season has taken another major turn, as Peterson Racing officially announced Wednesday that it has parted ways with the 25-year-old driver. The decision ends Green’s time with the organization after a season that began with hopes of competing full time in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series but ultimately turned into a difficult situation.A Full Time Opportunity That Fell ApartGreen entered the 2026 season as the driver of Peterson Racing’s No. 87 Chevrolet, receiving an opportunity to compete full time after previously racing on a part-time schedule.The season initially offered promise, but the team made changes after the first 16 races, bringing in Nick Sanchez to share the car. Green’s schedule became limited as Peterson Racing evaluated its performance and worked to improve the No. 87 program.Green returned to the car at Charlotte Motor Speedway earlier this month, finishing 23rd. That result proved to be his final start for Peterson Racing, with the team confirming the split on October 21.Peterson Racing Addresses the SplitThe announcement included a message from Peterson Racing acknowledging its separation from Green. The organization also apologized for contributing to online tensions surrounding the situation, adding another layer to a season that had already become challenging for the driver and team.Peterson Racing has already made plans for the future. Lee Pulliam is expected to drive the No. 87 Chevrolet full time in 2027, while Harrison Burton is set to join the organization in a second entry. Those plans leave Green without a confirmed seat at the team for next season.What Comes Next for Green?Despite the disappointing end to his relationship with Peterson Racing, Green still has an opportunity to gain experience in another NASCAR national series. He is scheduled to make his NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series debut at Talladega Superspeedway on Friday, driving the No. 77 Chevrolet for Spire Motorsports with sponsorship from GUNK.Green’s long term plans remain uncertain, but his upcoming Truck Series debut gives him a chance to showcase his talent and potentially open another door in NASCAR.For now, the split marks the end of a difficult chapter. Green will need to focus on his next opportunity as he looks to get his career back on track.