Chip Ganassi eyes NASCAR return—on one condition: Dale Earnhardt Jr. must join as partner

The possibility of a Dale Earnhardt Jr. partnership potential in NASCAR return has gained traction as Chip Ganassi reveals he is open to a return to NASCAR, but only if he shares the responsibility with someone like Dale Earnhardt Jr. This condition was outlined during a recent appearance on Kevin Harvick’s Happy Hour podcast, sparking renewed conversation around the future of Ganassi in the sport.

Ganassi Considers a Comeback—with a Stipulation

In 2022, Chip Ganassi Racing ended its historic engagement with NASCAR, transferring its assets to Trackhouse Racing and shifting focus to IndyCar and Sportscar events. The transition away from stock cars, particularly with the rise of Next-Gen technology, signaled the conclusion of one of NASCAR’s recognized teams. However, Ganassi has now expressed an interest in returning to the Cup Series, albeit with clear reservations about going on this journey alone.

Speaking candidly on Happy Hour, the veteran team owner revealed that while he frequently receives questions about a possible comeback, he would only seriously consider it if he were joined by strong partners. Specifically, Ganassi mentioned NASCAR Hall of Famer Dale Earnhardt Jr. and podcast host Kevin Harvick as desirable collaborators, both of whom have substantial business experience within racing circles.

I get that question a lot. Of course, I would never say never… I probably would want some people like if you and Dale Jr. (Earnhardt) decide to get back in, you let me know and I’ll come with you…I would want somebody else to help shoulder the responsibility of it. I just couldn’t do it the way I’d like to go racing.

Chip Ganassi said via Happy Hour podcast.

The partnership approach is rooted in the realities of running a competitive team, which now requires both significant financial commitment and strong operational leadership. Ganassi acknowledges it is no longer feasible to shoulder the demands of ownership without sharing responsibility with trusted allies who understand the unique pressures of the motorsports arena.

Business Dynamics and the Need for the Right Partners

Ganassi’s legacy as a team owner is intertwined with a hands-on methodology. He expects to be involved at every level, from pit lane to the core decision-making processes, rather than occupying a detached role. The Cup Series’ competitive climate, compounded by rising costs and increasing organizational complexity, necessitates a team effort rather than a solo act.

I’d like to have proper financial backing, having the proper people driving the cars, working on the cars and I’d like to be involved. I’m not one of these owners that sits up in the suite eating and drinking. I’m down in the pit lane with the team.

Chip Ganassi added.

Both Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Kevin Harvick already collaborate as business partners in the CARS Tour, which fosters a level of familiarity and trust that would be vital for launching a new Cup endeavor. This dynamic has drawn parallels to the latter years of Dale Earnhardt Inc. (DEI), where team synergy contributed to on-track competitiveness and off-track innovation.

Ganassi is explicit about his requirements for re-entry: any new effort must be built on solid financial support, employ a roster of skilled drivers and mechanics, and assure him an active role alongside the crew during races. He wants to remain a visible part of any operation, refusing to operate from a distance or enjoy the race from private suites.

Contrasts between NASCAR and IndyCar Team Culture

During the podcast, Ganassi also compared the cultures between major racing disciplines. He highlighted the long-standing legacy of owners and personnel who have shaped NASCAR, referencing the influence of the France family, Wood Brothers, the Petty family, and Banjo Matthews in building and maintaining that unique team spirit.

Each series has their own culture and none of them are good or bad, they just are what they are and it’s a culture that’s developed. The culture in NASCAR was developed because of the people like the France family and the Wood Brothers, the Pettys and Banjo Matthews and all these people from a long time.

Chip Ganassi said.

Turning to the IndyCar side, Ganassi credited the likes of AJ Foyt, the Andretti group, and Roger Penske with developing the sport’s identity and advancing its growth. His own presence and involvement over the years have contributed to the current state of IndyCar, but Ganassi acknowledges that every racing series must evolve according to its history and the priorities of its stakeholders.

The Potential for a New Team and What Comes Next

The suggestion of a Dale Earnhardt Jr. partnership potential in NASCAR return raises crucial questions for fans and insiders. For Ganassi, returning to Cup racing is contingent upon finding the right alliance, with operational roles and investment evenly shared. The growing trend of collaborative ownership in NASCAR could make this model increasingly practical, particularly as competition tightens and external pressures mount.

With discussions surfacing about forming a new team that brings together established figures like Ganassi, Earnhardt Jr., and Harvick, the motorsports community is watching for developments. Any such collaboration would unite decades of racing knowledge and business acumen, possibly creating a powerhouse team that draws on the traditions of DEI and the innovation demanded in today’s NASCAR Cup Series.

While Ganassi’s comments do not guarantee a return, they reflect an openness to exploring new pathways. The motorsport world will be attentive to the next moves, with the potential for a landmark partnership that could reshape competition and leadership within NASCAR in the years ahead.