Matt Johnson
Jesse Love is coming off a heartbreaking loss at Watkins Glen in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, losing on the final lap to Cup Series driver Connor Zilisch. Fortunately for Love, he could soon join his friend at the highest level.
On Sunday night’s episode of The Teardown, Jordan Bianchi of The Athletic said that there are Cup Series teams with interest in Love as a full-time driver.
“You talk to people in the garage, they think he’s really talented. There’s Cup teams that are interested in him.”
The Athletic’s Jordan Bianchi on Cup Series teams’ interest in Jesse Love
Related: NASCAR OARS Standings, See Where Jesse Love Sits
Love, age 21, was rated by Fox Sports‘ Bob Pockrass as the second-best NASCAR prospect in 2026. He’s part of the development program for Richard Childress Racing and does have a part-time ride in the No. 33 car that he splits with fellow O’Reilly Series driver Austin Hill.
While he is the reigning O’Reilly Series champion, victories haven’t been a common occurrence for Love at this level. He’s gone winless in 13 races this season and has just three in his OARS career. With that said, he’s consistently been one of the best drivers at the level and his future is bright.
Evaluating Jesse Love’s Cup Series Future
The most natural fit for Jesse Love if he gets a full-time Cup Series ride next season would seem to be with Richard Childress Racing. With most around NASCAR expecting Kyle Busch to leave RCR for another team in 2027, the No. 8 car would be open for Love.
It would allow him to become a full-time Cup Series driver at just 22 years old, racing for a team that has been a bit of a disappointment in recent years. However, making the change from Busch to Love would allow RCR to prepare for its future, and any progress he makes as a rookie could be viewed as a step forward in his development rather than a disappointment each week that Busch doesn’t finish in the top 10.
There’s another team worth considering. Legacy Motor Club will be adding a third charter for the 2027 season, with Jimmie Johnson seeking someone who can help make the team better. Love could be that guy, positioning Legacy to deliver a few more top-20 finishes.
Ultimately, we remain of the belief that Love will be driving the No. 8 next season, with 23XI Racing driver Riley Herbst taking the third car at Legacy. Herbst’s void at 23XI will be filled by Corey Heim, while Busch lands with another team.
