Daniel Suárez, who has driven the #99 car for Trackhouse Racing, revealed on July 1 that he will depart the team after the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series season, ending a collaboration that saw two Cup race wins and two playoff runs. As speculation intensifies, attention shifts to the Trackhouse Racing future after Suárez, along with where the accomplished, Mexican-born driver might compete in 2026.
Suárez’s Announcement Creates Uncertainty for Trackhouse Racing
The news marks the conclusion of an era for both Suárez and Trackhouse Racing, which benefited from his experience and competitive edge over a five-year period in NASCAR’s Cup Series. After stepping up from his previous success as an Xfinity Series champion, Suárez played a central role in the organization’s rise. As his departure looms, the team will need to identify a replacement who can fill the leadership and performance gap left by one of their most successful drivers.
Suárez has not yet announced his 2026 destination, leaving fans and teams alike contemplating his next move. Multiple organizations in both the NASCAR Cup and Xfinity Series could be possible new homes, each presenting distinct opportunities and challenges.
Rick Ware Racing: A Potential Path Forward
An immediate possibility is Rick Ware Racing, a team with plans for major changes following the 2025 season. The organization, which currently fields the #51 car with Cody Ware as its regular Cup Series entry, was recently the subject of news as T.J. Puchyr—former owner at Spire Motorsports—agreed to take over ownership and potentially expand the team to three cars. This expansion could offer an established veteran like Suárez the chance to anchor a new phase for RWR, even if its equipment is not among NASCAR’s elite.
The arrival of Puchyr sets the stage for significant restructuring at Rick Ware Racing. Given the opportunity for the team to bring in proven talent, Suárez’s credentials make him an attractive candidate to spearhead the expanded operation.
Spire Motorsports: Opportunity If Roster Changes
Another option is Spire Motorsports, although circumstances make this move appear less certain. Spire currently has three full-time Cup drivers—Justin Haley (#7), Michael McDowell (#71), and Carson Hocevar (#77)—each under contract for 2026. However, Haley’s ongoing performance struggles in 2025, where he sits 30th in the standings with an average finish of 22.3, could prompt a change if the team seeks better results.
Should Spire decide to part ways with Haley in the hopes of improving its performance, Suárez could be a strong contender to step into the #7 car in 2026. While such a change would require contract adjustments, Fox Sports has indicated that roster shifts are possible depending on results and organizational priorities.
Return to Xfinity Series with Jr. Motorsports
Given that most Cup Series seats are already secured for 2026, Suárez might also consider a return to the Xfinity Series—a circuit where he once claimed the championship. Jr. Motorsports (JRM) stands out as a top-tier team with potential vacancies as driver Connor Zilisch may advance to the Cup Series in 2026, possibly leaving a key opening.
Suárez has recent experience racing with JRM, having competed and won as a guest driver during a race in his home country, Mexico, earlier this season. That victory strengthens his connection with the team, and as a former series champion, he would bring proven talent and marketability. Team owner Dale Earnhardt Jr. could see value in recruiting Suárez for a high-profile Xfinity Series return, especially as JRM evaluates its 2026 lineup.
The Road Ahead for Trackhouse Racing and Daniel Suárez
The pending departure of Daniel Suárez introduces significant questions for Trackhouse Racing as they look to preserve competitiveness and continuity in the NASCAR Cup Series. The team’s search for a new leader on the track will be closely watched, and the outcome will influence how Trackhouse Racing future after Suárez unfolds in the coming years. For Suárez, options across different organizations, including Rick Ware Racing, Spire Motorsports, and a potential reunion with Jr. Motorsports in the Xfinity Series, keep speculation alive. Fans and industry insiders alike will monitor developments as both Suárez’s next chapter and Trackhouse Racing’s adaptation take shape ahead of the 2026 season.
