KKR Announces Personnel Changes Including New No. 49 Crew Chief

Kasey Kahne Racing (KKR) is excited to announce a personnel shift within its team structure that promises to elevate and strengthen the organization’s future in sprint car racing. Eric Prutzman, who has served as crew chief for Brad Sweet and the No. 49 team the past seven years, will now take on the role of KKR team manager, while Tye Wolfgang, Sweet’s car chief of two years, is being promoted to No. 49 team crew chief.

Prutzman joined KKR in 2017 and quickly became a cornerstone of the team’s success. After the conclusion of the 2017 season, he and Sweet decided to join forces as a new driver/crew chief combo, leading to an incredible run of achievements. In their first year together (2018), the pair made a statement by winning the prestigious Knoxville Nationals and finishing runner-up in the World of Outlaws points standings. Their partnership continued to thrive: together they accumulated a total of 74 World of Outlaws wins, 10 High Limit Series victories, five World of Outlaws championships, and a High Limit Racing championship.

After an immensely successful run, Prutzman recognized that it was time for a change and was ready for his next challenge. In his new role as team manager, Eric will oversee all racing operations for the entire KKR organization, bringing his expertise and leadership to a broader scope within the team.

“KKR has been home for me since 2017, and working alongside Brad for the past seven years has been a privilege,” Prutzman said. “As I step into this new role, I’m excited to support the entire team and help elevate KKR so we can continue to grow and reach new heights.”

With Prutzman moving into his new position, Wolfgang is set to take the reins as Sweet’s new crew chief. Tye has been an integral part of the team as car chief for the past two years, contributing to 24 national 410 wins, a World of Outlaws championship, and a High Limit Racing championship. His experience, dedication, and chemistry with Sweet make him a natural fit for the role.

“I’m grateful for this opportunity to step into the crew chief role,” said Wolfgang. “Working with Brad and the entire KKR team has been an incredible opportunity, and I’m excited to continue building on the foundation Eric and Brad have laid over the years.”

Prutzman’s continued presence at KKR will help ensure a smooth transition for Wolfgang as he takes on this new challenge. With their combined expertise and passion, KKR is looking forward to an exciting new chapter that promises to build on the team’s legacy of success.

“We’re really looking forward to what’s ahead for KKR,” said Team Owner Kasey Kahne. “Having Eric take on the team manager role feels like a natural fit—his leadership has been a huge part of our success, and I know he’ll do great things in this new position. And seeing Tye step up as crew chief for Brad’s team is really special. It feels like the beginning of an exciting new chapter for all of us. I’m confident this team will continue to make us proud and keep KKR at the top of sprint car racing.”