Noah Gragson Redemption: After enduring a tumultuous period stemming from a social media “like” on an insensitive meme involving George Floyd, Noah Gragson has been on a path of self-reflection and growth for the past five months, seeking personal maturity.
Recently, Stewart-Haas Racing announced their decision to sign Gragson for their No. 10 Ford in the Cup Series, marking a pivotal second chance for the 25-year-old driver after his career took a nosedive in August.
The controversy erupted when social media users highlighted Gragson’s inadvertent ‘like’ on a meme depicting George Floyd, a Black man tragically killed by white police officers in 2020. NASCAR swiftly suspended Gragson, leading to his departure from Legacy Motor Club, the team that initially welcomed him for his debut full season in the top-tier Cup level.
Known for his aggressive driving style both on and off the track in the Xfinity Series, Gragson found himself questioning the unraveling of his life. Seeking guidance, he turned to close friend Brandon McReynolds, grappling with the sudden downturn.
Recalling his conversation with McReynolds in an interview with The Associated Press, Gragson stated, “I was like ‘Man, whats going on? Like, is this real? Why is this happening?’ He said Hey buddy, Im going to tell you this because you’re like a little brother to me, but it’s time you grow up and it’s time you take accountability and you allow yourself to take this opportunity to work on yourself and self-reflect.'”
During his suspension, Gragson earnestly committed to personal development, engaging in sensitivity training mandated by NASCAR while also seeking professional assistance from a psychologist. His introspection over the past months has resulted in profound self-awareness and realization.
Reflecting on this transformative period, Gragson shared, It has brought a tremendous amount of self-awareness to myself, self-reflection, and ultimately it opened my eyes to the world and showed me I was a pretty selfish guy. I’ve learned to pay more attention, be more present, enjoy the people I’m with. This has really been a rude awakening of all the work I needed to do on myself.
Prior to his suspension, Gragson had an impressive record in the Xfinity Series, securing 13 victories driving for JR Motorsports and finishing as the runner-up for the 2022 championship. However, his 21-race stint in Cup with Legacy ended on a sour note. The team’s lackluster performance, coupled with Gragson’s absence from the top 10, led to the termination of his contract.
Regarding the regrettable ‘like’ on the Floyd meme, Gragson expressed, I think my ignorance and lack of awareness put me in that position to like that meme. I think through everything I’ve learned, I’m able to have situational awareness… I take accountability for the lack of awareness and realize I put myself in that position and want to become better from it.
Unsure if he would receive another opportunity, Gragson secured a seat at SHR, a team that struggled in the previous Cup Series season and needed replacements for Kevin Harvick and Aric Almirola. Gragson is set to fill Almirola’s spot.
SHR co-owner Tony Stewart, no stranger to controversy himself, voiced his confidence in Gragson’s abilities, stating, “Noah deserves to be in the NASCAR Cup Series. Noah has performed at every level where hes competed and has regularly been in championship contention. Thats the kind of driver we need at Stewart-Haas and thats why Noah is a part of our team.
Notably, Gragson’s family background includes ties to Las Vegas politics, with his great-grandfather serving as the city’s Mayor. However, his father’s legal troubles, specifically a DUI causing death in 2019, have undoubtedly impacted the family. Gragson refrained from discussing the influence of his father’s situation on his behavior but acknowledged the value of seeking professional guidance during difficult times.
In his own words, Gragson reflected, “It just takes becoming honest with myself. I don’t want to get into too much detail, but with that situation, it’s definitely something that I’ve become more honest with myself and accepting of the situation. It’s how you adapt and how you overcome the adversity and challenges. I feel like I’m still trying to learn life and learn how to do the right things and it’s been tough, to say the least.”
Gragson journey serves as a testament to the ongoing quest for self-improvement and redemption, as he aims to learn from past mistakes and embrace a promising future within NASCAR’s highest echelon of racing.
Also read: Noah Gragson to Revive Cup Series Career with Stewart-Haas Racing in 2024
Our Reader’s Queries
Who will be driving for Stewart-Haas in 2024?
In June, Stewart-Haas Racing made an announcement that JR Motorsports driver Josh Berry would be taking over the No. 4 Ford entry in 2024, replacing the future Hall of Famer. This news has been making waves in the racing world, as fans eagerly anticipate Berry’s debut with the team. With his impressive track record and undeniable talent, Berry is sure to make a name for himself in the years to come.
Is Noah Gragson going to NASCAR next year?
In 2024, Nascar Cup Series fans can look forward to seeing Noah Gragson back on the track. The 25-year-old driver is set to take over the No. 10 Ford for Stewart-Haas Racing. It’s an exciting opportunity for Gragson, who will undoubtedly bring his skills and passion to the team. Racing enthusiasts can’t wait to see what he’ll achieve in the years to come.
How old is Noah Gragson?
Following his suspension by NASCAR, the 25-year-old driver has parted ways with Legacy Motor Club. The Las Vegas native had been hired by the team for his first full season racing in the top Cup level.
Is Noah Gragson a good driver?
Noah’s impressive track record speaks for itself. According to team co-owner Tony Stewart, he has consistently excelled in every competition he’s entered and has frequently found himself in the running for championships. This is precisely the type of driver that Stewart-Haas requires, which is why we are thrilled to have Noah on board as a member of our team.