Petty Performance EDGE program continues in 2026

NASCAR Youth Announces 2026 Petty Performance EDGE Program

INDIANAPOLIS, IN. (January 20, 2026) — NASCAR Youth, in collaboration with USAC and the Petty family, today announced the launch of the 2026 Petty Performance EDGE (PPE) Program for the second year, a year-long developmental initiative designed to identify, evaluate, and elevate the next generation of elite racing talent. The program blends on-track performance, academic excellence, professionalism, and fan engagement into a structured, multi-phase selection process.

The Petty Performance EDGE Program will begin with an open application period and conclude with the selection of drivers who will compete in the 2027 Tulsa Shootout, providing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to represent the Petty Performance legacy.

Program Structure & Key Dates

Phase 1: Sign-Up & Top 48 Selection

The program kicks off with a national call for entries, followed by a comprehensive evaluation of driver profiles from the selection committee, comprised of multiple USAC executives outside of the quarter midget world along with NASCAR Youth Series staff.

Key Dates

• February 20, 2026 (11:59 PM ET) – Application deadline

• March 11, 2026 – Top 48 drivers announced LIVE on NASCAR Youth Series Facebook

  
  

Phase 2: Initial Selection

Drivers will demonstrate commitment and communication skills through spotlight videos and academic character references.

Key Dates

• March 20, 2026 – Submission instructions will be sent for Spotlight video + teacher recommendation letter submissions

• May 1, 2026 (11:59 PM ET) – Submission deadline

  
  

Phase 3: Academic Performance & Progress (Top 48 → Top 20)

Academic accountability becomes a determining factor as drivers submit spring semester grades.

Key Dates

• May 4, 2026 – Report card submission details emailed to top 48

• June 17, 2026 – Report card submission deadline

• June 26, 2026 – Top 20 drivers will be notified via email

Phase 4: Petty Performance Experience (Top 20 → Top 10)

Drivers engage in elite racing experiences and live events with Petty Performance leadership.

Key Dates

• July 1, 2026 – BC39 Petty Performance Experience for Top 20

• July 17, 2026 – Suit measurement deadline for Top 20 (information for suit measurements will be emailed to top 20)

• August 12, 2026 – Top 10 drivers announced LIVE on NASCAR Youth Series Facebook

Phase 5: Final Selection & Tulsa Shootout Test

The program culminates with the selection of drivers who will represent Petty Performance at the Tulsa Shootout.

Key Dates

• October 7, 2026 –Top 4 drivers announced LIVE on NASCAR Youth Series Facebook

• November 2026 – Top 4 drivers participate in Tulsa Shootout testing

• December 11, 2026 – Top 2 drivers announced LIVE at the USAC Night of Champions

About the Petty Performance EDGE Program

The Petty Performance EDGE Program is committed to developing well-rounded drivers by emphasizing racing excellence, education, professionalism, and fan engagement. Selection committees include USAC leadership and Petty Performance representatives, ensuring a holistic evaluation process throughout each phase.

For full program rules and updates, visit nascaryouth.com and follow NASCAR Youth on social media.