Joe Gibbs Staff Debunks Off-Season ‘Ghost Town’ Myth
Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR) is dispelling the notion that its shop becomes a “ghost town” during the off-season. With an engaging update through social media, the team showcased the ongoing activities that keep the organization bustling. Despite the season ending without a championship trophy, JGR aims to strengthen its performance in 2026.
Off-Season Activities at JGR
Dave Alpern, the president of Joe Gibbs Racing, articulated the lively environment during off-seasons. Although the shop experiences less activity during holidays, like Christmas and Thanksgiving, it sees increased operations later in the week.
- Maintenance and inspections of vehicles.
- Reconditioning of pit boxes.
- Upgrading equipment and tooling.
During this period, while some pit crew members take a break, many return for practice and maintenance work. The shop sees used vinyl from season wraps being removed, making way for new designs as preparations for the next season begin.
Preparations for the 2026 Season
Alpern emphasized that by January, the shop is fully engaged in preparations for the Daytona race. The blend of maintenance and innovation is crucial for JGR’s success. The team’s transparency regarding off-season activities, including videos illustrating their work, has been a highlight for fans.
2025 Season Highlights
The 2025 season was successful for Joe Gibbs Racing, highlighted by strong performances from key drivers:
- Denny Hamlin secured six victories in the NASCAR Cup Series.
- Rookie Chase Briscoe won a notable race at Talladega.
- Christopher Bell maintained a consistent performance throughout the season.
During the season, JGR led over 10,000 laps—an impressive milestone. Additionally, the team clinched the 2025 Xfinity Series Owner’s Championship, marking its seventh title, demonstrating the depth of talent within the organization.
Brent Crews Joins Joe Gibbs Racing
Looking forward to 2026, Brent Crews is set to drive the No. 19 Toyota for JGR in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. At just 17 years old, Crews will participate in 29 of the 33 races, navigating age-related restrictions while still being eligible for playoffs due to NASCAR’s rules.
Crews has made a name for himself in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, impressing fans and stakeholders alike. His achievements include:
- 10 starts with notable performances.
- Leading over a hundred laps in various races.
- Achieving six wins in 17 ARCA starts.
The previous season’s seat was shared among several talented drivers. With pressure mounting, Crews is enthusiastic to begin his career with JGR, showcasing the continuous evolution and ambition of the organization.
