Dale Earnhardt Jr. has made his opinion clear regarding Daniel Suarez’s potential future in NASCAR following the upcoming departure from Trackhouse Racing. This Dale Earnhardt Jr NASCAR future opinion comes at a tense time for Suarez, who faces an uncertain path after his split with the team and a high-profile incident involving teammate Ross Chastain at Sonoma.
Lack of Open Opportunities in the Current Cup Lineup
On the latest episode of his Dale Jr. Download podcast, Earnhardt held little back as he addressed Suarez’s predicament. During his commentary, he questioned the availability of quality Cup rides for Suarez after his exit from Trackhouse Racing.
“What openings are there? Where would he go that would be like a, ‘Hell yeah! This is just as good.’ A lateral move at least, right? There’s nowhere he’s going to go. There’s nothing, right?”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., Commentator and Owner.
While Earnhardt conceded that unexpected changes do sometimes occur, he remained skeptical that Suarez could find a more favorable situation.
“But I don’t believe there is a move where you could go, ‘Man, he’s stepping into something better.’ He has support, sponsorship, he has some funding. I just don’t see an opening where Suárez can go and that’s as good or better (than Trackhouse Racing).”
—Dale Earnhardt Jr., Commentator and Owner.
Mounting Frustration as Options Diminish
According to Earnhardt, the shrinking pool of available rides will likely add to Daniel Suarez’s frustration. Despite hoping to finish his season on a positive note with his team and colleagues, being taken out by a teammate like Ross Chastain has made the situation even more challenging for the Mexican driver.
The overall NASCAR Cup Series landscape is tight. Teams like Hendrick Motorsports, Joe Gibbs Racing, Team Penske, and 23XI Racing currently have no open slots. Josh Berry is expected to remain with Wood Brothers, and Ryan Preece appears to have a secure spot at RFK Racing, further narrowing Suarez’s choices.
Possible Destinations: Kaulig Racing or a Return to Xfinity
Given the limited opportunities, Kaulig Racing could emerge as the lone sensible option for Suarez. The team’s habit of rotating drivers and its present commitment to Ty Dillon could make room for a lineup change in favor of Suarez. If Kaulig chooses to part ways with Ty Dillon, Suarez’s name could quickly move to the top of their list.
Another scenario might see Suarez returning to the Xfinity Series, particularly with JR Motorsports. He’s no stranger to success there, having previously won for the team in Mexico. Should Suarez aim to be a regular contender, JR Motorsports could provide a path to weekly victories, and, with the organization exploring occasional Cup entries, possibly set the stage for Suarez’s eventual comeback to NASCAR’s highest level.
Implications for Suarez and the NASCAR Cup Series
The uncertainty faced by Daniel Suarez, especially in the wake of his Team Trackhouse split and the fallout at Sonoma, underscores the fierce competition and limited availability of quality seats in the Cup Series. The opinions voiced by Dale Earnhardt Jr. add weight to the notion that even successful drivers with sponsorship support, like Suarez, must navigate a difficult environment when trying to secure a top-level ride. As the season progresses, Suarez’s future remains unresolved, and the broader NASCAR community will be watching closely to see where he lands for 2025 and beyond.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Dale Earnhardt Jr. a billionaire?
A. Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s net worth in 2025 is about $300 million. His wealth comes from his successful NASCAR driving career and his current broadcasting job. He also makes money from endorsements, owning a racing team, and various partnerships that increase his reach.
Q. Is Dale Earnhardt Jr. retiring?
A. In 2017, after 17 years in NASCAR’s top racing league, Dale Earnhardt Jr. decided to stop racing full-time. He was 42 years old then. Throughout his career, he experienced several concussions.
