4/16/2026
URSS-United Rebel Sprint Series
ROOKIE SPOTLIGHT: 18-YEAR-OLD CONNER THOMAS EMBRACES NEW ROLE WITH JECHA RACING IN 2026
4/16/2026 – Dodge City, Kansas (www.urssracing.com) A new season in the United Rebel Sprint Series brings fresh faces and new opportunities, and few are stepping into 2026 with more upside than rookie contender Conner Thomas of Post, Texas.
At just 18 years old, Thomas is already making a major move in his racing career, joining the Jecha Racing team full-time aboard the No. 17x.
While he may carry the rookie label, he has already proven he can compete at one of the biggest stages on the schedule.
In 2024 at Dodge City Raceway Park, Thomas turned heads during the DCRP 305 Nationals. He won his qualifier and followed it up with a runner-up finish to Jeremy Huish the next night.
Back in November of 2025, Thomas reached out to Steven Richardson to begin building relationships within the URSS community. That conversation helped open the door to a ride with the Jecha family following Jake Martens’ retirement.
“After speaking with the Jecha’s, it was clear we share similar goals and expectations,” Thomas said. “I’ve raced against them over the past few years and have a lot of respect for the speed and consistency of the 17x. I’m excited for the opportunity to work with them and represent their program.”
Traveling from Texas each weekend to chase points brings its own challenges. Thomas has already experienced that grind.
“In 2024, we had plans to run for a championship but faced some setbacks that forced us to scale back,” he said. “With this opportunity, I’m confident we can be competitive and put together a strong season.”
Now with a full-time focus on the series and the support of an established team, Thomas believes the timing is right.
“I have high expectations for 2026,” he said. “On URSS off weekends, I’ll be competing in my family-owned equipment. We’ve shown speed in the past, and this offseason we’ve made improvements to give ourselves the best chance to contend consistently.”
Despite the change, one thing remains the same. Family continues to be at the center of his racing career.
For years, Thomas has raced alongside his father, building their program from the ground up. From long nights in the shop to race-day preparation, that bond has shaped who he is as a driver.
“Driving for the Jecha’s will be a new experience after spending the last 14 years racing with my dad,” Thomas said. “We’ve built something special together. I’m incredibly grateful for his support and everything he’s done to help me get to this point.”
As the 2026 season gets underway this weekend at Dodge City Raceway Park, Thomas enters with a mix of youth, confidence, and proven speed.
He may be new to the series full-time, but he is not new to running up front.
“Overall, I’m excited for what’s ahead and thankful for the opportunity with the Jecha’s,” he said. “I’m ready to get to work and make the most of it.”
At just 18 years old, Conner Thomas is a rookie to watch as the 2026 United Rebel Sprint Series season begins.
Article Credit: Dalton Janousek
Submitted By: Dalton Janousek