The 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series championship race in Phoenix concluded with a mix of pressure, speed, and disappointment for JR Motorsports. Despite strong performances, the team fell just short of capturing the title. Connor Zilisch finished second, Justin Allgaier took third, and Carson Kvapil secured fourth place.

In a recent interview with SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Dale Earnhardt Jr. shared that his focus is already on next season. “I’m ready for next year to get started,” he said, emphasizing the team’s commitment to improvement and results. Earnhardt Jr. expressed confidence that JR Motorsports will respond with increased effort and preparation. “We have got a lot of things going that we are excited about, ready to get back to the racetrack and redeem ourselves,” he added.

### Off-Season Focus: Hard Work and Improvement

The finish in Phoenix stung for JR Motorsports, especially considering they had three drivers in contention for the championship. The outcome, however, did not reflect the team’s hard work throughout the season. Earnhardt Jr. highlighted the motivation this brings: “You know, anytime you don’t get the result you need, you cannot wait to go back and try again.”

The plan for the off-season is clear—more work, more focus, and a stronger structure. “I know we will have an off-season of hard work and dedication to try to position ourselves where we come back here and get it done next year,” Earnhardt Jr. said. He expects improvements in every area, including pit road execution, car setups, and communication. For him, preparation is key: “Every detail has value. Nothing stays the same if you want a title.”

His message is direct and purposeful: learn from the loss, fix the problems, and return stronger.

### Rookie Growth: Carson Kvapil’s Strong Finish

Carson Kvapil faced intense pressure in the season finale as a rookie moving up to this competitive level. Despite the challenges, he remained steady and finished fourth in the championship race. Dale Earnhardt Jr. noted, “This was tough here for Carson. I think it matured him. You have to deal with a lot of frustrating moments, stressful moments.”

Earnhardt Jr. added, “And he got himself all the way to finish with a shot at it.” Kvapil’s performance showed that he is no longer just a rookie—he has proven he belongs. His strong showing earned him a full-time ride for the upcoming season. “Enough for him to give himself another full-time ride next year,” Earnhardt Jr. confirmed. The results speak for themselves.

### Expanding the Kvapil Family in JR Motorsports

Looking ahead, Dale Earnhardt Jr. revealed exciting news about the team’s development program. Both Kvapil brothers, Carson and Caden, will compete full-time next season in the CARS Tour. “We are going to race him with Caden next year full-time in the Cars Tour,” Earnhardt Jr. shared.

This expansion brings more talent into the JR Motorsports program and reflects the team’s focus on building sustained success rather than hoping for a single standout season. Earnhardt Jr. expressed confidence in the team’s structure: “We have a great company. Put all the right pieces around everybody. We can have success.”

His priority remains clear—focus on people, teamwork, and constant improvement.

### Looking Ahead: Championship Goals for 2026

JR Motorsports left Phoenix without a trophy, but with a clear target in sight. The goal for 2026 is undeniable—Dale Earnhardt Jr. wants a championship and a stronger finish. And from his perspective, the hard work starts now.

Stay tuned as JR Motorsports prepares to build on their strong foundation and chase victory in the new season.
https://heavy.com/sports/nascar/dale-earnhardt-jr-motorsports-2026/