Jeffrey Earnhardt’s Xfinity Series replacement Dean Thompson declares his achievement as what “most can only dream of” 

Jeffrey Earnhardt’s replacement Dean Thompson has given a clear take on his NASCAR achievement. The latter recently graduated from Truck Series for Tricon Garage to a full-time National Series schedule for Sam Hunt Racing, following which he expressed his triumph as something “most can only dream of.”

Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s nephew Jeffrey isn’t on a full-time NASCAR schedule but fielded several part-time entries this past season. This includes a single-race Truck Series stint for MBM Motorsports and six races in Sam Hunt Racing’s #26 Toyota in the Xfinity Series.

Thompson is the second Sam Hunt driver who piloted two Xfinity entries in the #26 Toyota in 2024, at Charlotte and Talladega.

But amid the big silly season move, the Mooresville, North Carolina-based outfit has tapped Thompson as their full-time driver instead of Jeffrey Earnhardt, who boasts way more experience than the former.

Following his career step-up, Dean Thompson expressed feeling like at home after his two-race stint with the team, declaring his feat as a “dream” for many. The 23-year-old elaborated (via NASCAR).

“I’m very excited to join the Sam Hunt Racing group and continue to pursue my dreams in NASCAR. The team made me feel at home after the two races we shared last year. Everything clicked with us, and we are both in a spot where we could fulfill each other’s needs to help our growth as a race team and driver. I’m lucky to have this opportunity to take the next step, which most can only dream of reaching, and I’m grateful to share it with such an awesome group of people,” Thompson said.

Thomspon will get sponsorship support from MCM Transportation, Assured Partners, and Thompson Pipe Group, with some additional deals on the way.

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Dean Thompson’s boss heaps praise of the “mature race car driver” amid aligning goals

Sam Hunt, Dean Thompson’s new boss and the owner of SHR, expressed confidence in bringing the Xfinity Series rookie on board. Mr. Hunt, a former race car driver himself, outlined that Jeffrey Earnhardt’s replacement is a tough driver who works religiously for a better NASCAR career behind closed doors.

The team owner portrayed his excitement as their outfit’s goals aligned with their new full-time driver. He said (via NASCAR).

“He is extremely tough, has a great personality and works hard behind the scenes to make the most of his opportunities. As in any rookie, Dean understands the challenge that awaits, but he is completely committed to becoming a well-rounded, mature race car driver who can put himself in a position to succeed every single week. Our goals are aligned, and we are ready to get to work,” Hunt said.

Thompson began testing his motorsports skills at just 5 years of age, making stock car racing his only goal at 16. He’s completed three full-time Truck Series seasons and will now begin with the highest moment of his career, as a full-time Xfinity Series racer.