Spire Motorsports Eyes a Three-Car Operation with RWR Acquisition
Spire Motorsports has long sought to establish itself as more than just a mid-field team, and Puchyr’s bold move to purchase RWR’s assets signals that intent. Speaking publicly about the expansion, the Spire executive made it clear that his sights are set on a full-time three-car team in 2026.
“I am bullish on wanting to build a three-car team. I believe in the France family and the direction of the sport.” – Spire Motorsports co-owner T.J. Puchyr
The anticipated deal includes keeping Cody Ware in the No. 51 car and retaining all existing RWR employees—providing much-needed stability during the transition. The focus now turns to integrating RWR’s infrastructure with Spire’s growing resources. By consolidating talent, equipment, and charters, Spire is positioning itself to become a more consistent threat in the Cup Series moving forward.
Rumors swirling in the garage suggest the transaction could be valued well into the nine-figure range. This reflects both the competitive nature of the charter market and the growing value teams see in guaranteed starting spots as NASCAR’s new media rights deal kicks in next season.
Cody Ware to Stay, While Charter Value Debate Continues
Despite Cody Ware’s complicated history in the Cup Series, including recent time away from the car due to personal and legal matters, he remains a central figure in the new plan. According to garage chatter, Ware will continue behind the wheel of the No. 51 under Spire’s management. That continuity is essential for RWR, which has often shuffled drivers in and out of its entries over the years.
More interestingly, Puchyr’s aggressive stance on the charter value signals his belief in NASCAR’s long-term growth. “I believe the charters are worth $75 million or more,” he emphasized. With teams like RFK Racing leasing one of RWR’s charters to field a third entry in 2025, Puchyr’s valuation isn’t just hopeful—it’s rooted in real business activity.
Charters have become NASCAR’s hottest commodity. Originally offered as a way to stabilize team ownership, they’ve now turned into investment-grade assets. That’s especially true with a booming sponsorship market and increased exposure through new media partners, including Amazon Prime and TNT Sports.
Legal Tensions Boil Over with Legacy Motor Club
While Spire and RWR prepare to unite under one banner, a separate issue is unfolding that casts a shadow over the deal—an ongoing lawsuit with Legacy Motor Club. Owned in part by seven-time champion Jimmie Johnson, Legacy alleges that RWR failed to honor a deal to sell one of its charters for the 2026 season. In response, RWR has filed a countersuit claiming that the agreement was for 2027, not 2026.
Puchyr hasn’t shied away from addressing the issue, offering a mix of candor and criticism in public comments.
“If anybody deserves a pass it is Jimmie. But I don’t think he has all the facts, and they tried to humiliate Rick publicly. We don’t do business that way.” – T.J. Puchyr
The dispute highlights how competitive and cutthroat the charter market has become. With so few charters available—and a limited number of teams willing to sell—legal battles may become more common as demand intensifies. Johnson’s organization currently runs the Nos. 42 and 43 full-time, while fielding a third car part-time. If they fail to secure a new charter, their 2026 plans could be disrupted.
All Eyes Now on Chicago as Deal Looms in the Background
While legal proceedings and business negotiations simmer behind the scenes, the NASCAR Cup Series moves ahead to one of its most unique events—the Grant Park 165 on the Chicago Street Course. Set for Sunday, July 6, the race represents NASCAR’s continued push into new markets and fanbases.
For teams like Spire and RWR, Chicago isn’t just another race. It’s a reminder of the sport’s evolving identity, where urban races, multi-million-dollar investments, and new-age media coverage are reshaping what it means to be competitive in NASCAR.
Both organizations will compete as separate entities this weekend, but the groundwork is being laid for a unified, expanded effort in 2026. Whether this results in better on-track results remains to be seen, but the ambition is unmistakable.
News in Brief: Spire Motorsports’ Bold Plan Sparks New Chapter for Rick Ware
The proposed takeover of Rick Ware Racing by Spire Motorsports may still be unofficial, but the intentions are clear—and the ripple effects are already being felt. From driver lineups and staffing to charter valuations and legal disputes, the story reflects a changing NASCAR, one where business acumen is just as critical as racing skill.
If the deal goes through, it will mark a new chapter for both organizations. For Spire, it’s a bold play to compete with NASCAR’s biggest names. For Rick Ware Racing, it could be the rebirth needed to move beyond its reputation as a backmarker team. Either way, the 2025 season may be halfway through, but the 2026 silly season just got a lot more interesting.
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