In a surprising turn of events for the 2026 NASCAR season, Ford will be absent from the O'Reilly Series race at Dover Motor Speedway this May. The entry list released Monday evening confirmed that Hettinger Racing, Ford's last remaining team in the series, has not entered the event. This marks a significant downturn for the Blue Oval, which has seen its presence in the O'Reilly Series dwindle to zero active cars.

Hettinger Racing had been Ford's sole representative since AM Racing withdrew driver Nick Sanchez and the No. 25 car in early April. The team also missed the last two NASCAR weekends, leaving the manufacturer without any competitive entries. AM Racing initially fielded Sanchez as a full-time driver to start the 2026 season, but their commitment faded quickly, while Hettinger Racing struggled with a rotating lineup of part-time drivers.

The absence of Ford at Dover is a stark contrast to the deep manufacturer rivalries that have historically defined NASCAR. With Chevrolet and Toyota continuing to field strong entries, Ford's exit from the O'Reilly Series raises questions about the brand's commitment to the development series. It's unclear when—or if—AM Racing or Hettinger Racing will return, leaving fans and teams alike hoping for a swift comeback.

For now, the focus shifts to the remaining competitors at Dover. While Ford's absence is a blow to the grid, the race promises to deliver the high-speed drama that NASCAR is known for. Stay tuned for updates on Ford's potential return to the series, and in the meantime, gear up for the action with the latest race-day apparel to show your support.