Kevin Harvick Transition: In a major announcement ahead of the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series season, Kevin Harvick, the 2014 Cup Series champion, disclosed his decision to retire at the end of the season, marking the conclusion of his impressive 23-year tenure in the series. Notably, Harvick spent the last decade steering the No. 4 car for Stewart-Haas Racing.
At 47 years old, Harvick stands as the oldest full-time driver in the Cup Series. During the last offseason, he openly deliberated his retirement plans, hinting at this significant decision.
Following the retirement announcement, the Bakersfield, California native confirmed his new venture for 2024, a move that many had long speculated on: joining the Fox Sports broadcast booth. Harvick, with previous experience calling races in the Truck Series and the Xfinity Series, will team up with lead announcer Mike Joy and analyst Clint Bowyer, a former teammate from Stewart-Haas Racing.
This shift comes after Jeff Gordons six-year tenure in the booth. Gordon stepped away from his broadcasting duties during the networks 2021 schedule to focus on his role as Vice Chairman of Hendrick Motorsports.
Fox faced a decision on how to structure their broadcast team, ultimately settling on a compromise. In 2022, they experimented with rotating different individuals, including former NASCAR drivers like Tony Stewart, Matt Kenseth, and Danica Patrick, in the third announcer spot. This approach, of not committing to a single individual for the role, was maintained in 2023, indicating anticipation for Harvick’s impending retirement and subsequent transition into the broadcasting team from 2024 onwards.
The next NASCAR Cup Series race will mark Harvick’s broadcasting debut. On Sunday, February 4, the preseason exhibition race at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum will precede the season-opening Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on Sunday, February 18. To celebrate Harvick’s new NASCAR career, Fox will broadcast both races live from the commentary booth.
ALSO READ: Kevin Harvick Cup Series Retirement: A Farewell to an Illustrious Career
Our Reader’s Queries
Who is changing drivers for NASCAR Cup Series 2023?
Exciting driver changes are in store for the 2023 season! Kyle Busch will be replaced by Ty Gibbs, who will take over the #54 car. Meanwhile, Ty Dillon will be moving from Petty GMS to Spire Motorsports to drive the #77 car. Kurt Busch will be stepping away from full-time racing, and Tyler Reddick will be taking over the #45 car for 23XI. Finally, Ryan Preece will be replacing Cole Custer in the #41 car for Stewart-Haas. Stay tuned for more updates on these exciting changes!
Will Kevin Harvick race in 2024?
NASCAR fans were taken aback when Kevin Harvick, the 2014 champion and future Hall of Famer, revealed his retirement plans. However, it was also announced that he would be joining the FOX Sports broadcast booth for the 2024 season. This move will undoubtedly bring a fresh perspective to the sport and provide fans with a unique insight into the world of NASCAR. Harvick’s decision to retire may be bittersweet, but his new role in the industry is sure to be exciting.
Who is driving 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 the best NASCAR driver in 2023?
The NASCAR 2023 awards have been announced, and the winners are in! Kyle Larson has been named the Driver of the Year, while Ryan Blaney takes home the Closer of the Year award. Brad Keselowski is the Owner of the Year, and William Byron is the Biggest Surprise. Denny Hamlin is recognized as the Personality of the Year, and Ty Gibbs is the Rookie of the Year. Finally, Kevin Harvick takes home the Retirement Tour of the Year award. Congratulations to all the winners!
