Bumgarner’s Victory Collection Continues During KDDP’s First Segment

CONCORD, North Carolina (June 25, 2026) – Michael Bumgarner and winning are synonymous as the North Carolina resident claimed victories in half of the races in which he competed during the Kulwicki Driver Development Program’s first segment.

       The 22-year-old Taylorsville, N.C., resident finished KDDP’s first segment second in the standings, just three points behind leader Carson Haislip.

       Since joining KDDP, Bumgarner has won three of six races, produced five top-five finishes and placed outside the top three only twice. He also won a race this year before being selected as a KDDP finalist or “Underbird,” giving him four victories in 2026. He obtained his 11th consecutive victory this year, a run that began in July 2025.

       “(We) hope to keep building on our progress,” said Bumgarner, who leads the Late Model standings at Hickory (N.C.) Motor Speedway.

       Bumgarner has used Alan Kulwicki’s signature “Polish Victory Lap” to celebrate two of his victories. His upcoming races include the June 27 race at South Boston (Va.) Speedway, which is the first event in the Virginia Late Model Triple Crown, and the July 17 zMAX CARS Tour race at North Wilkesboro (N.C.) Speedway.  

       Off the track, Bumgarner was a career day guest at Millersville Christian Academy. He also has partnered with Cardinal Kids, which is a community-based, specialized pediatric palliative and hospice care program operated by Carolina Caring. It serves children from birth through young adulthood who are facing serious, chronic, or life-limiting medical conditions. Bumgarner is participating in various fundraising events, including a charity golf tournament.

       This year, members of Alan Kulwicki’s championship team and veteran drivers are mentoring the “Underbirds.” Bumgarner’s mentor is Daytona 500 winner Ryan Newman.