Late Model Legend to Make NASCAR Debut at Martinsville

Dale Earnhardt Jr. picks veteran racer Lee Pulliam for JR Motorsports ride

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Veteran late model racer Lee Pulliam, a four-time NASCAR Weekly Series champion, will make his NASCAR national series debut next month at Martinsville Speedway, driving the No. 9 car for Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s JR Motorsports team.

Why it matters

Pulliam is one of the most accomplished late model racers in the country, with over 175 wins, but has never made it to the national NASCAR level until now. This opportunity represents a chance for a talented driver who has been overlooked due to funding challenges in the sport to showcase his skills on a bigger stage.

The details

At 37 years old, Pulliam owns his own team, Lee Pulliam Performance, and has won numerous prestigious late model races, including two Virginia Triple Crowns and six Thunder Road victories. While he made some K&N Series starts in the past, this will be his first time competing in a NASCAR national series event.

  • Pulliam will make his NASCAR national series debut at Martinsville Speedway on March 29, 2026.
  • Pulliam is a four-time NASCAR Weekly Series champion, with his most recent title coming in 2023.

The players

Lee Pulliam

A 37-year-old veteran late model racer who has won over 175 races, including four NASCAR Weekly Series championships, two Virginia Triple Crowns, and six Thunder Road victories.

Dale Earnhardt Jr.

The co-owner of JR Motorsports, which will field the No. 9 car for Pulliam's NASCAR national series debut.

JR Motorsports

The NASCAR team co-owned by Dale Earnhardt Jr. that will provide the car and support for Pulliam's debut.

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What they’re saying

“I'm so thankful, it's been a long journey and much awaited opportunity. So thankful to each person along the way that helped make this possible. Never give up on your dreams. Can't wait to battle with this [JR Motorsports] team.”

— Lee Pulliam (Social media)

What’s next

Pulliam will look to make the most of his opportunity at Martinsville, a track he is very familiar with, having won there multiple times in late model competition. A strong debut performance could open the door for additional NASCAR national series opportunities in the future.

The takeaway

This opportunity for Lee Pulliam represents a chance for a talented, accomplished driver who has been overlooked due to funding challenges in motorsports to showcase his skills on a bigger stage. It also highlights the importance of perseverance and never giving up on one's dreams, as Pulliam has done throughout his career.