Aric Almirola NASCAR Journey: Aric Almirola’s NASCAR journey took an unexpected turn in the 2022 season. Initially, he had announced his retirement at the season’s end, only to later extend his career with a contract extension from Stewart-Haas Racing, continuing to pilot the No. 10 Ford into 2023 and beyond. However, recent developments indicate that his time with Stewart-Haas Racing will conclude after the 2023 season, and primary sponsor Smithfield will also part ways.
While Almirola has confirmed his departure from Stewart-Haas Racing in 2024, he has not yet disclosed whether this marks a full retirement from the sport. It remains an intriguing subplot to his NASCAR story.
As for Almirola’s potential landing spot, Rick Ware Racing emerges as a plausible option, provided they retain both of their charters. Their second seat typically sees multiple drivers throughout the season, making Almirola’s addition a possibility, especially with Justin Haley’s departure from Kaulig Racing to join the team full-time next year.
This move by Almirola marks yet another offseason of change for Stewart-Haas Racing, as they seek to fill multiple driver positions. Josh Berry has been confirmed as Kevin Harvick’s successor, while Chase Briscoe stands as the team’s longest-tenured driver entering the 2024 season, having replaced Clint Bowyer in 2021. Ryan Preece will return for his second season with the team, having stepped in for Cole Custer this year.
Although Cole Custer appeared to be a potential replacement for Almirola after his 2023 season in the Xfinity Series, Noah Gragson has now emerged as the front-runner. Gragson had faced challenges during the 2023 season, losing his ride with Legacy Motor Club, but the opportunity with Stewart-Haas Racing could offer a fresh start in the Cup Series.
ALSO READ: Kevin Harvick Farewell: Passing the Torch to NASCAR’s Next Generation Stars
Our Reader’s Queries
How long has Aric Almirola been in Nascar?
Almirola has a rich history in the NASCAR Cup Series, having competed full-time from 2012 to 2023. He drove for Richard Petty Motorsports from 2012 to 2017, famously behind the wheel of their No. 43 car. Later, he joined Stewart-Haas Racing from 2018 to 2023, where he drove their No. 10 Ford.
What is Aric Almirola best track?
Aric Almirola has a knack for superspeedways, with 4 out of his 9 NASCAR wins coming from these tracks. Talladega seems like a natural choice for him to race on. However, it’s important to note that superspeedways can be risky and require extra caution.
Who is taking Aric Almirola spot?
Stewart-Haas Racing has announced that Noah Gragson will be joining their team for the upcoming NASCAR Cup Series races. The 25-year-old driver has signed a multiyear deal with the team after being reinstated. Gragson will be replacing Aric Almirola and is set to make his return to the racing scene next year.
Who does Aric Almirola drive for in Xfinity?
Nascar driver Aric Almirola is set to make a comeback to Joe Gibbs Racing, the team that launched his career, with a partial Xfinity Series schedule in 2024. Almirola had initially planned to retire from full-time Cup Series racing, but his impressive performance during the 2022 season convinced him to postpone his retirement for another year. He will be driving the No. 20 car for the team.
