Peterson Racing ended its partnership with Austin Green and addressed online abuse before Talladega. The O’Reilly Auto Parts team also set its driver plan for the remainder of 2026.

Green helped build the single-car operation and had been slated for a full-time 2026 campaign.

Mid-season, the team split duties by inserting Nick Sanchez for selected races. That rotation suggested an evaluation phase of direction, performance, and commercial priorities.

The split is now formalised. Peterson Racing issued a statement to explain the change and to address the reaction across social media.

It acknowledged fans expected Green at Charlotte, Phoenix, and Talladega. Disappointment was predictable, given preseason plans and messaging around his programme.

The team reiterated respect for Green and his contribution across four seasons. It wished him success and stressed that support for him and the team need not conflict.

Peterson Racing condemned hostile responses aimed at Green, supporters, and staff. Similar flashpoints have appeared in motorsport, including recent online attacks that escalated beyond acceptable debate.

Crucially, the team accepted responsibility for tensions from linked accounts. It apologised for unprofessional exchanges and will review its moderation policies to balance criticism with civility.

That approach mirrors a wider paddock trend, as high-profile cases like the Colapinto episode spotlight the need for clearer standards and faster moderation.

Attention now turns to Talladega’s NOAPS event. Lee Pulliam will drive the No. 87 and has been confirmed as Peterson Racing’s full-time driver for next season.

For a single-car outfit, clarity matters. Consolidating around Pulliam should stabilise preparation, sponsorship alignment, and development planning for late-2026 and the 2027 schedule.

The team thanked Green for his service and moved to reset the tone online. The priority now is performance on track, matched by a respectful community off it.

Visual Summary

Zane Muniz

Zane Muniz writes across NASCAR, IndyCar, F1, IMSA, NHRA, and dirt-racing news. His breaking-news alerts and event previews ensure motorsport fans never miss a lap, drift, or drag-strip showdown.