Paint Scheme Showdown: Kansas Brings Out The Bangers
Kansas Speedway is hosting the NASCAR Cup Series for the ninth race of the season, and we’re back on a 1.5-mile circuit after two weeks of short track madness. But here’s the thing about the Midwest: you need to show up looking sharp, and these paint schemes are sure to stand out in the heartland.
Let’s start with Ross Chastain. After overwhelming fan demand, Busch Light Apple is officially back, and the No. 1 Chevrolet is rolling into Kansas with a special red paint scheme that mirrors the iconic can design and “Race for the Mountains” branding. Trackhouse is also running a sweepstakes where fans can win a one-day contract with the team. Yeah, sign me up.
Speaking of Trackhouse, rookie Connor Zilisch is making his first Cup start at Kansas in the No. 88 Choice Privileges Chevrolet. He’s coming off his first win of the 2026 season last weekend at Bristol, passing Kyle Larson with seven laps to go. The kid is on fire, and I’m not betting against him.
Preece’s Kansas Scheme
But the scheme I’m most excited about? Ryan Preece and RFK Racing are debuting the Kickstand Cocktails paint scheme on the No. 60 Ford Mustang Dark Horse. Preece already won the Clash at Bowman Gray this year and has been consistent through the first two months.
Now he’s got a vodka soda sponsor and a why-not-me attitude after RFK’s heartbreaking loss here a couple of years ago, when Chris Buescher lost to Kyle Larson by centimeters. He’s ready to party in Victory Lane, and honestly? I’d join him.
He’s carried that chip ever since, and Kansas gives him the perfect stage to cash it in. The place owes him one, and he knows it, which is why he’s rolling in with the kind of swagger that only comes from unfinished business. If the race breaks his way late, he’s not lifting for anybody.
Tyler Reddick’s Kansas Scheme
Oh, and Tyler Reddick is debuting a new SupplyHouse primary scheme for 23XI Racing at Kansas as well. The company is making its first entry into the sports world, supporting the trades of plumbing, HVAC, and electrical work. It’s a bold move, and it’s great to see new brands jumping into NASCAR.
This weekend is shaping up to be a banger. The schemes are fresh, the drivers are hungry, and Kansas always delivers. The field feels edgy in the best way, like everyone showed up knowing something big is about to break loose. If Kansas gets even half the chaos it usually does, we’re in for a show.
What’s Next
Kansas rolls in with its own set of distractions and motivators, from Ryan Preece showing up with something to prove to Tyler Reddick unloading one of the sharpest paint schemes in the garage. Those storylines add pressure to a field already stacked with contenders.
And they raise the competitive temperature around Blaney, whether Penske is involved or not. Kansas doesn’t care who’s rebuilding, who’s experimenting, or who’s debuting new colors. It just exposes whoever isn’t buttoned up. I’ll be watching from the couch with a cold one. You should, too. Thanks a bunch for reading!
