“What has been especially troubling is the hostility directed toward Austin, his supporters, Peterson Racing, and our team members.”
Ahead of the 2026 season, Austin Green announced that he would race full-time in Peterson Racing’s No. 87. The announcement included a new technical alliance with Richard Childress Racing and sponsorship from 3Dimensional Services.
Earlier this season, AM Racing closed their doors, leaving Nick Sanchez without a ride.
Green missed a race at Pocono Raceway earlier this season as Nick Sanchez took over the seat. Sanchez then raced the car at Chicagoland, EchoPark Speedway, Indianapolis, Iowa, Daytona, Darlington, WWT Raceway and Bristol.
Green made a return to the team for the race at Charlotte. Now, Green and Peterson Racing have officially parted ways.
Lee Lulliam will drive the No. 87 car this weekend at Talladega Superspeedway. It was previously announced that Harrison Burton will drive the No. 87 car in 2027.
Peterson Racing has addressed the situation…
Peterson Racing Statement
“We recognize the frustration and disappointment surrounding our decision to part ways with Austin Green, particularly regarding the changes to our driver lineup for Charlotte, Phoenix, and Talladega. We understand that expectations were established for these events, as well as for Austin’s full-time 2026 season. We acknowledge the disappointment caused by those plans changing and respect everyone’s right to question our decision.”
“We want to make one thing clear: Peterson Racing supports Austin Green.”
“For four seasons, we have been proud to support Austin and his racing career. Our decision to move in a different direction does not change our respect for him or our desire to see him succeed. What has been especially troubling is the hostility directed toward Austin, his supporters, Peterson Racing, and our team members. Disagreement is understandable, but personal attacks against anyone involved are not acceptable.”
“We also acknowledge that some social media interactions associated with our organization have contributed to the tension. We apologize for those exchanges and recognize that we should have handled them more professionally.”
“We are also reviewing our social media moderation practices, including concerns about blocked accounts. Respectful criticism and differing opinions should always have a place in our community. Supporting Peterson Racing does not mean you have to stop supporting Austin Green. Supporting Austin does not mean you have to turn against Peterson Racing.”
The team concluded, “We are grateful for our four seasons together and genuinely wish Austin continued success.”
