The NASCAR Cup Series has seen a lot of surprises in recent years, and FOX Sports’ motorsports experts expect the 2026 season to be just as unpredictable. On the latest episode of “Kevin Harvick’s Happy Hour,” analysts Bob Pockras, Kevin Harvick, and Mamba Smith share their forecasts for the upcoming year, each with different opinions on who will emerge as the breakout driver, who will score the most wins, and who will ultimately claim the Cup Series title.
With the Daytona 500 fast approaching (scheduled for Sunday at 2:30 p.m. ET on FOX and the FOX Sports app), these experts weigh in on how the 2026 Cup Series season might unfold.
Teams Under Pressure
Bob Pockras: Picks Richard Childress Racing (RCR) as the team with the most to prove, citing their disappointing previous season and ongoing uncertainties, including Kyle Busch’s free-agent status and Austin Dillon’s career trajectory. Pockras highlights the challenges RCR faces with changes in competition and internal dynamics.
Kevin Harvick: Points to 23XI Racing as needing to show more in 2026, particularly expecting Tyler Reddick to step up after a winless 2025. Harvick emphasizes the importance of multiple wins from Reddick and continued success from teammates Bubba Wallace and Riley, suggesting higher championship ambitions for the team.
Mamba Smith: Names both RFK Racing and the 22 Group as teams that must elevate their performance. Smith notes Ryan Preece’s strong form for RFK but stresses the overall motivation within the 22 Group and their potential to rise as consistent top contenders despite recent setbacks.
Breakout Driver Predictions
Pockras: Favors Chris Buescher as a potential standout, especially if RFK Racing improves as a whole. Drivers expect Buescher to be a serious contender this season given his recent solid finishes.
Harvick: Spots Ty Gibbs as a fast and talented driver poised to break through, highlighting his consistent speed and the stability within Joe Gibbs Racing as factors that could lead to a breakthrough year.
Smith: Chooses Chase Elliott, noting that while he’s a former champion, Elliott could return to the winner’s circle having recently overcome challenges with car setup and team dynamics.
Most Wins Anticipated
Pockras: Bets on Kyle Larson for the most wins, building on his successful 2025 campaign with two Cup Series victories.
Harvick: Picks Denny Hamlin, whose motivation remains strong despite personal hardships and near misses, believing Hamlin has the drive to fight for the top spot this year.
Smith: Selects Christopher Bell, appreciating his speed, well-rounded skill set, and motivation to clinch a championship after a strong but inconsistent 2025 season.
Predictions for the Cup Champion
Pockras: Chooses Ryan Blaney, who has been a constant presence among the top performers, with a championship win in 2023 and a second-place finish in 2024.
Harvick: Supports William Byron, citing Byron’s maturity and strong relationship with his team as key factors that could push him to finally secure the championship.
Smith: Backs Christopher Bell, convinced that Bell’s time has come to translate consistent top-five finishes into a championship victory.
Fan Take:
This preview highlights just how competitive and dynamic the NASCAR Cup Series continues to be, promising fans an exciting 2026 season full of surprises and new rivalries. With several drivers and teams on the cusp of breakthroughs, the sport is set to deliver compelling storylines that could attract even more enthusiasm and viewership.
