Corey Heim ruled ineligible for NASCAR Rookie of the Year

Corey Heim has been ruled ineligible for the 2027 NASCAR Cup Series Rookie of the Year award due to updated eligibility regulations. Despite preparing for his first full-time season with 23XI Racing, Heim has already completed 15 Cup Series starts during a part-time campaign, exceeding NASCAR’s strict 12-start threshold.

Heim’s part-time experience includes two victories, specifically at the Brickyard 400 in Indianapolis and an inaugural race in San Diego. Heim expressed disappointment regarding the ruling, stating that the award is “losing its value” and questioning its prestige given the circumstances.

His 23XI Racing teammate, Bubba Wallace, commented on the decision, agreeing that Heim should not be eligible for the honor because of his existing success and experience at the Cup level. Wallace noted that while the award is a notable addition to a driver’s resume, Heim’s performance has already moved him beyond the traditional rookie status.