Brown Shows His Potential in Just Two Starts
Carson Brown is quickly proving that he belongs in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. The 18 year old racing prospect has made the most of his limited opportunities in NASCAR’s second-tier series, delivering an impressive top five finish at Charlotte Motor Speedway in just his second career start.
Brown’s performance is especially encouraging considering how little experience he has at this level. After making his series debut at Iowa Speedway in August, he returned to the track in October for the Blue Cross NC 300 at Charlotte. Despite starting 20th and having no practice or qualifying session because of rain, Brown worked his way through the field to finish fifth.
A Strong Finish at Charlotte
Driving the No. 32 Chevrolet for Jordan Anderson Racing Bommarito Autosport, Brown showed patience throughout the 200 lap race before making his biggest move late.
Brown spent much of the evening running in the middle of the pack, but a late caution gave his team an opportunity to make a strategic pit stop. Crew chief Mark Setzer’s decision helped Brown gain valuable track position for the final restart.
When the race resumed with 11 laps remaining, Brown charged through the field and gained 15 positions to secure fifth place.
The result was his first top five finish in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and another sign of his ability to adapt quickly to new challenges.
Brown admitted he was surprised by the result, but he credited the team’s adjustments and execution for helping him make progress throughout the race.
Brown Has Already Built an Impressive Résumé
Brown’s success in the O’Reilly Series is part of a larger pattern of strong performances across multiple racing divisions.
Before making his NASCAR debut, Brown established himself as a rising talent in the ARCA Menards Series and other short-track competitions. He earned four ARCA poles and recorded eight top three finishes in his first 11 career starts, including a victory at Phoenix Raceway.
He also found success in super late models and the ASA STARS National Tour, demonstrating his ability to compete on different types of tracks.
That versatility has helped Brown build momentum as he moves up the racing ladder.
A Bigger Opportunity Awaits in 2027
Brown’s future is already taking shape. He is scheduled to compete full-time in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series in 2027, driving the No. 2 Chevrolet for Richard Childress Racing.
The opportunity will give him a full season to develop his skills, gain experience at NASCAR’s intermediate and short tracks, and compete for rookie of the year honors.
His fifth place finish at Charlotte provides an encouraging glimpse of what he could accomplish with a full-time schedule.
Brown still has plenty to learn, but his early performances suggest he is adapting well to the increased competition. With a strong development path and a full season ahead, he has given fans plenty of reasons to watch his progress.
At just 18 years old, Carson Brown is already making his presence felt in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series. His first top five finish may only be the beginning.