Haas Factory Team expands to three O’Reilly Series entries with Dean Thompson

NEWTON, Iowa — Haas Factory Team has announced the signing of Dean Thompson to their newly expanded NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series third entry for 2027.

Thompson, 24, and sponsors Thompson Pipe Group and MCM Transportation will leave Sam Hunt Racing for the HFT effort. His car number, crew chief, and more will be announced at a later date.

“I’m thrilled to join Haas Factory Team as the next step in my NASCAR journey,” said Thompson.

“I am looking forward to competing for wins and a championship with support from MCM Transportation and Thompson Pipe Group.” he added.

It’s a major move for Haas Factory Team. Their expansion to three competitive full-time O’Reilly Series entries requires immense resources that team president Joe Custer said they can commit to.

Finally, Custer expanded on the financial aspect of the announcement.

He mentioned the bolstered financial security from The CW and from the offseason meetings which retooled their potential earnings as a major factor in the addition of Thompson and the new program.

Cup Series Aspirations

Custer also mentioned their Cup Series aspirations. Currently, there are no plans to sell their charter and or expand to a multi-car team.

The team president doubled down on their commitment to the topflight of stock car racing, “We have unfinished business in the Cup Series as a team.”

Regarding their current performance, Custer added “We are going to try and figure out Cup as a single-car team… stay tuned because we are not happy.”

It looks like Cole Custer, and the No. 41 Haas Factory Team Chevrolet entry will fight for another Cup Series season in 2027.

But first, Iowa Speedway awaits both series this weekend with the O’Reilly Series racing at 5:00 p.m. ET on The CW and the Cup Series on Sunday at 2:00 p.m. ET on USA Network.