JUST ANNOUNCED: Kurt Busch, Randy LaJoie, and Jake Elder Among Nominees for NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2026
April 21, 2025 – Charlotte, NC
The NASCAR Hall of Fame has unveiled its nominees for the Class of 2026, with former drivers Kurt Busch and Randy LaJoie earning spots on the Modern Era ballot for the first time. Additionally, crew chief Jake Elder returns to the Pioneer ballot, alongside a host of other influential figures in the sport.
Busch, a 2004 NASCAR Cup Series champion, and LaJoie, a two-time Xfinity Series champion, are both entering their first year of eligibility for the prestigious Hall of Fame. Busch, known for his intense racing style and versatility, has left an indelible mark on the sport with 34 career wins in NASCAR’s top series. LaJoie, who dominated the Xfinity Series in the late 1990s and early 2000s, is also celebrated for his contributions to the development of future racing talent.
On the Pioneer ballot, which honors individuals whose careers began more than 60 years ago, Jake Elder — a crew chief who helped guide some of NASCAR’s most successful teams — makes a return after a long-awaited nomination. Elder’s leadership and expertise on the pit box earned him a place in NASCAR history, and many believe his inclusion will be a strong case for induction.
The 2026 induction class will be determined by voting from a panel of media members, Hall of Fame inductees, team owners, and officials. Two nominees from the Modern Era ballot and one from the Pioneer ballot will be selected for enshrinement.
The announcement has already sparked discussions in the racing community, as fans and fellow drivers alike express their excitement about the potential inclusion of Busch, LaJoie, and Elder. The official induction ceremony is set for early 2026, where the next generation of NASCAR legends will join the ranks of the sport’s greatest icons.
