Stewart-Haas Racing Revamp: Stewart-Haas Racing faces a significant overhaul in the upcoming 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season with Aric Almirola’s departure. While driver changes are not new for the team, this season marks a departure from their usual trend, as they’ve typically made only one change in a single offseason over the past seven years.
The 2023 season already saw Kevin Harvick announcing his retirement, subsequently replaced by Josh Berry. The speculation surrounding Aric Almirola’s decision regarding retirement added intrigue to the team’s dynamics. Although Almirola chose to step back from full-time racing without officially retiring, he won’t be part of Stewart-Haas Racing in 2024.
While Almirola may not be considered a top-tier driver, his absence could have more significant consequences for Stewart-Haas Racing than initially apparent. The team has faced challenges in recent Cup Series seasons, with 2023 being their first winless season since 2008. Their struggles extend to a total of only four wins since the beginning of the 2021 campaign, a stark contrast to their successful seasons from 2014 to 2020.
Losing Harvick was a substantial blow, and entering a rebuilding phase was anticipated. Harvick, a former champion and one of the sport’s winningest drivers, played a pivotal role in the team’s performance. Now, with Almirola departing, the team faces its most significant driver lineup change, raising doubts about their ability to return as contenders.
While Almirola might not have been a championship contender, his departure removes a veteran presence and consistent performance that could impact Stewart-Haas Racing more than on paper. As they prepare for the 2024 season, the team is in a situation where Chase Briscoe, who joined in 2021, becomes their longest-tenured driver.
Even in the standings, Almirola ranked as the top driver for Stewart-Haas Racing in 2023, underscoring his importance. Chase Briscoe, despite a 120-point penalty, still falls behind Almirola in the standings. As the team navigates this transition, questions arise about the effectiveness of the replacements. Noah Gragson, linked to replace Almirola, already faced challenges before his release, raising uncertainties about Stewart-Haas Racing’s performance in 2024.
In conclusion, Almirola’s departure comes at a precarious time for Stewart-Haas Racing. The team faces not only a shift in its driver lineup but also the potential challenges of adapting to a new era without a clear veteran figure, adding complexity to their prospects for the upcoming season.
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Our Reader’s Queries
Who will drive for Stewart-Haas in 2024?
Stewart-Haas Racing is set to make some major moves in its NASCAR Cup Series program come 2024. The team will bid farewell to Kevin Harvick and Aric Almirola, with Josh Berry and Noah Gragson stepping in to take their places. Berry will take over the No. 4 car, while Gragson will be behind the wheel of the No. 10 car. These changes are sure to shake things up and bring a fresh perspective to the team.
Who will be driving for Stewart-Haas in 2023?
Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR) has announced that Ryan Preece, the 32-year-old racer from Berlin, Connecticut, has been promoted from his reserve driver role to the NASCAR Cup Series. Preece will be driving the team’s No. 41 Ford Mustang starting in 2023. This move is a testament to Preece’s talent and dedication to the sport, and we look forward to seeing him excel on the track.
Did Stewart-Haas Racing switch to Ford?
The team had been using Chevrolet engines and chassis from the start, except for a brief stint with Pontiac in 2003. These were provided by Hendrick Motorsports. However, in 2017, the team decided to switch things up and partnered with Roush-Yates Engines. They also started building their own chassis in-house. As a result, the team now runs on Ford engines.
Is Stewart-Haas Racing going to Dodge next year?
Stewart Haas has made a shocking switch in Nascar, and it’s bad news for fans. Despite a legacy of speed and victory, the brand’s final act was nothing short of spectacular. In a surprising move, they clinched the championship with the legendary Team Penske, led by the indomitable Brad Keselowski. This unexpected turn of events has left many wondering what the future holds for Stewart Haas and their fans.