The departure of Tony Stewart from NASCAR marks the end of Stewart-Haas Racing, leading to significant shifts within the sport.
Tony Stewart’s exit from the series and the subsequent dissolution of Stewart-Haas Racing leaves a notable void, affecting four drivers and unsettling three charters. Gene Haas, co-owner with Stewart, rebrands the team as Haas Factory, aligning more closely with his Formula 1 endeavors. This transition impacts several established drivers as they find new placements in the 2025 NASCAR season.
Joe Gibbs Racing quickly secured Chase Briscoe, who had an impressive 2024 season. Briscoe’s move was facilitated by Martin Truex Jr.’s decision to reduce his racing commitments. Meanwhile, Josh Berry is set to join Wood Brothers Racing in a strategic move that aligns him with Team Penske’s successful equipment.
At Front Row Motorsports, Noah Gragson prepares for a potential expansion to three cars, despite an ongoing antitrust lawsuit with NASCAR over charter agreements. Front Row, alongside 23XI Racing, faces challenges due to their unapproved expansion efforts reliant on acquiring SHR’s charters. As negotiations stall, these teams might compete without fixed spots, increasing their competitive pressures.
Ryan Preece transitions to RFK Racing, which plans to expand to three cars. Although RFK avoids purchasing SHR charters, they opt for a leasing strategy from Rick Ware Racing. This tactical maneuver allows RFK to navigate the uncertainties of charter acquisitions effectively. In a related move, Jeremy Bullins reunites with Brad Keselowski at RFK, leaving Wood Brothers Racing.
Kaulig Racing is poised for changes as well, with AJ Allmendinger returning from the Xfinity Series, and Ty Dillon replacing Daniel Hemric. Similarly, Michael McDowell departs Front Row for Spire Motorsports, which also reacquires Justin Haley, enhancing their competitive lineup. Shane van Gisbergen, celebrated for his surprise victory in 2023, advances to full-time racing with Trackhouse Racing’s expansion.
The situation is further complicated by the planned promotions of Zane Smith and Riley Herbst, who face uncertainties due to the unresolved charter issues affecting Front Row and 23XI Racing. As these teams aim to expand, their status as ‘open’ competitors adds an unpredictable element to their 2025 strategy.
Changes in crew chief roles add another layer to the evolving landscape. At Joe Gibbs Racing, Chris Gabehart transitions to a management position, prompting Bubba Wallace at 23XI to adjust to a new crew chief. Rodney Childers, after a decade at SHR, moves to Spire Motorsports as part of these shifts.
The departure of Stewart-Haas Racing catalyzes a profound reconfiguration within NASCAR. As drivers and teams adjust to new roles, the landscape in 2025 promises to be dynamic and challenging.
Source: Local10
