Dr. Patrick Staropoli, who works as a retinal surgeon, continues his journey in the world of stock car racing. In 2026, it will replace Nick Sanchez as a full-time driver from n°48 Big machine racing Chevrolet.
Staropoli made his debut in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series (formerly Xfinity) earlier this year, running four races with Sam Hunt Racing. He finished 16th at Martinsville. Staropoli also ran four truck races last year, finishing 15th – also at Martinsville. His 2025 schedule also included six ARCA races, scoring three top tens.
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Staropoli also won an ARCA West race at Irwindale in 2014. He first arrived on the scene in 2013 when he won the PEAK Stock Car Dream Challenge to become a development driver for Michael Waltrip Racing.
“From the moment I made the switch to pure stock at Hialeah Speedway in 2003, my life’s goal has been to compete at the highest level of the sport,” Staropoli said. “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 bring this Chevrolet SYFOVRE to the forefront and raise awareness about geographic atrophy secondary to age-related macular degeneration by combining my passion for motorsports and medicine.”
Big Machine Racing has won two races as an organization – one race with Sanchez last year at EchoPark Speedway (Atlanta) and the other with Tyler Reddick in Texas in 2022.
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“We are pleased to welcome Dr. Patrick Staropoli to the No. 48 Big Machine Racing team for the 2026 season,” said Patrick Donahue, crew chief and crew chief. “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 to build long-term success.”
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Nick Sanchez released from Big Machine Racing following abrupt split
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