Jesse Love Charges Forward at Indianapolis, Maintains Third in NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Standings
INDIANAPOLIS (July 25, 2026) — Defending NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series Champion Jesse Love put together another determined drive Saturday afternoon at the historic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, rallying from the 26th starting position to finish 16th in the Pennzoil 250 Presented by Take 5 Oil Change.
Driving the No. 2 Whelen Chevrolet for Richard Childress Racing, Love faced an uphill battle from the drop of the green flag but spent the afternoon doing what championship contenders do best—methodically working his way through the field at one of the most challenging and prestigious venues in motorsports.
After crossing the line 20th at the conclusion of Stage One, Love and the Richard Childress Racing team continued making adjustments to improve the handling of the No. 2 Chevrolet throughout the 100-lap event. As the race progressed, Love steadily picked off positions, avoiding trouble while maximizing every opportunity to move forward.
When the checkered flag flew, Love had advanced 10 positions from his starting spot to finish 16th, earning another solid points day while maintaining his place among the championship favorites. Although the afternoon did not produce stage points, the consistent performance allowed Love to leave Indianapolis third in the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series standings while remaining securely locked into the Chase with just two regular-season races remaining.
The result may not have been the finish the defending series champion was looking for, but it demonstrated the resilience that has defined Love's title defense throughout the 2026 season. On a day when passing proved difficult throughout the field, gaining 10 positions at Indianapolis was a testament to both the driver and the Richard Childress Racing team.
Following post-race inspection, NASCAR determined the No. 2 Whelen Chevrolet had one loose lug nut. As a result, the team will forfeit its pit selection for the upcoming race at Iowa Speedway. The inspection did not affect Love's finishing position or championship points.
Love and the No. 2 Richard Childress Racing team will now turn their attention to Iowa Speedway on August 8, where they will continue their push toward another NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series championship.
About Jesse Love
Jesse Love is the defending NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series Champion and one of NASCAR's brightest young stars. After building an impressive résumé that includes championships and victories across multiple forms of motorsports, Love continues to establish himself as one of the sport's premier talents. Driving the No. 2 Chevrolet for Richard Childress Racing, he remains a consistent race winner and championship contender while also competing in select NASCAR Cup Series events.
About Whelen Engineering
Whelen Engineering is a leading manufacturer of emergency warning equipment, lighting systems, sirens, and safety solutions serving first responders, public safety agencies, and commercial markets around the world. Family-owned and American-made, Whelen has built a reputation for innovation, reliability, and supporting motorsports through long-standing partnerships.
About Richard Childress Racing
Richard Childress Racing (RCR) is one of NASCAR's most successful organizations, earning numerous championships and hundreds of victories across NASCAR's national touring series. Founded by NASCAR Hall of Famer Richard Childress, RCR has built a legacy of excellence through innovation, championship-caliber competition, and the development of some of the sport's biggest stars.
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