Dr. Patrick Staropoli, who works as a retina surgeon, is continuing his journey into the stock car racing world. In 2026, he will replace Nick Sanchez as the full-time driver of the No. 48 Big Machine Racing Chevrolet.
Staropoli made his O'Reilly Auto Parts (formerly Xfinity) Series debut earlier this year, running four races with Sam Hunt Racing. He finished as high as 16th at Martinsville. Staropoli also ran four Truck races this past year, finishing as high as 15th -- also at Martinsville. His 2025 schedule also included six ARCA races, scoring three top tens.
Staropoli also won an ARCA West race at Irwindale back in 2014. He first arrived on the scene in 2013 when he won the PEAK Stock Car Dream Challenge to become a Michael Waltrip Racing development driver.
“From the moment I buckled into a pure stock at Hialeah Speedway in 2003, my life’s goal has been to compete at the top levels of this sport," said Staropoli. "The path has taken many unexpected turns but after working every day for 23 years in pursuit of this dream, I now have the opportunity of a lifetime thanks to Scott Borchetta, Patrick Donahue, and Chevrolet. I am ready to do whatever it takes to put this SYFOVRE Chevy up front and raise awareness for Geographic Atrophy secondary to Age-Related Macular Degeneration by combining my passion for motorsports and medicine.”
Big Machine Racing has two race wins as an organization - one race with Sanchez this past year at EchoPark Speedway (Atlanta), and the other with Tyler Reddick at Texas in 2022.
“We’re pleased to welcome Dr. Patrick Staropoli to the #48 Big Machine Racing team for the 2026 season,” said Patrick Donahue, Crew Chief and Team Manager. “He brings a rare blend of professionalism, focus, and drive that will continue to strengthen our organization. This partnership reflects our commitment to surrounding the team with individuals who share our values and vision for building long-term success.”
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