Reaching a Career Milestone

Casey Mears is set to achieve a major career goal in 2026: reaching 500 career starts in the NASCAR Cup Series. The 2007 Coca-Cola 600 winner has secured a five-race deal with Beard Motorsports to pilot the No. 62 Chevrolet, bringing him to the historic milestone.

Currently sitting at 495 career starts, Mears will begin his journey with the team at the Talladega Superspeedway on April 26. If the schedule proceeds as planned, the 48-year-old driver will become the 48th driver in NASCAR history to reach 500 starts during the season finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway.

2026 Race Schedule

The partnership between Mears and Beard Motorsports will span five key events throughout the season. The schedule includes:

  • Talladega Superspeedway (April)
  • Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis
  • Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona
  • YellaWood 500 at Talladega (Fall)
  • Season-finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway

The effort will be supported by several longtime partners, most notably the Gracie Foundation, which honors the late Gracie Germain.

Team and Driver Perspectives

Amie Beard-Deja, executive vice president of Beard Motorsports, expressed excitement about the collaboration. She noted that the team is proud to help Mears reach his 500th start, citing his extensive experience at the specific tracks on their schedule as a major asset.

Mears shared his appreciation for the family-owned nature of the team, which was founded by the late Mark Beard Sr. "Partnering with Beard Motorsports... means a lot to me," Mears stated. He also expressed gratitude toward Bob Germain for his continued support and friendship throughout his career.