Corey Heim’s transition to a full-time Cup Series seat in 2027 is a significant moment for 23XI Racing. While the move to take over the No. 35 car is expected, new questions about the team structure behind him are gaining traction. Veteran Kenny Wallace recently highlighted a potential hurdle that could disrupt Heim's trajectory as he enters his first full season.
The core of the concern is the relationship between Heim and crew chief Bootie Barker. The duo has shown impressive results in limited appearances, including wins at the Naval Base Coronado and the Brickyard 400. Their performance record suggests a rare chemistry that often translates to success at the highest level of the sport. Without this specific pairing, the transition for a rookie driver becomes much more difficult.
Reports suggest that Barker may be hesitant to commit to a full 36-race schedule. After moving out of the primary crew chief role for Bubba Wallace following the 2024 season, Barker transitioned into a broader organizational role. The current management at 23XI Racing now faces a choice between keeping their proven technical leader in a desk role or returning him to the pit box to guide their rising star.
The risk is that moving Heim to the No. 35 car without his established team could dilute the momentum they have built. If the chemistry is broken, the team loses the foundation that made Heim's recent wins look so straightforward. Decisions made in the coming months will determine whether 23XI Racing can keep this group together or if they will force a new driver to adapt to a different technical environment.
Team owners Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan must decide if they are willing to shift personnel to satisfy a specific driver-crew chief connection. Maintaining the status quo of the No. 67 team could be their best path forward, but internal preferences regarding schedule commitments remain a major factor. The development of Corey Heim depends on how the organization resolves this internal staffing question before the 2027 season begins.