Daniel Suarez NASCAR Journey: Daniel Suarez experienced a stark downturn in 2023, a stark contrast to his highpoint in the NASCAR Cup Series the year before, clinching his maiden victory at Sonoma. But the stats tell a different story a decline in every metric: top 5s, top 10s, average starts, average finishes, and laps led. A rise in DNFs was the only unwelcome increase, jumping from four to six.
The season’s underperformance was highlighted further by Trackhouse Racing teammate Ross Chastain securing two victories, replicating his 2022 success, including a triumphant finish at Phoenix in the season finale.
In a SiriusXM NASCAR Radio appearance, Trackhouse Racing’s President, Ty Norris, pulled no punches discussing Suarez’s 2023 campaign and laid out expectations for 2024.
“We’ve identified several areas needing attention within the team. The raw speed was evident, but execution lagged far behind,” Norris stated. “Whether in adjustments, pit stops, or restart choices, the execution was unacceptable this year. It’s imperative we address each area collaboratively to revert to our 2022 level of performancewinning races, securing playoff spots, and just a mechanical hiccup away from the final eight.”
Suarez’s journey with Trackhouse Racing reflects a rollercoaster in his Cup Series career. After starting with Joe Gibbs Racing and Stewart-Haas Racing from 2017-19, a stint with Gaunt Brothers Racing in 2020 proved challenging, recording only three top-20 finishes.
However, 2021 saw a turnaround when he signed with Trackhouse Racing. Despite an improvement from his Gaunt year, he still fell short of his prior stints, where he finished no lower than 21st in the final standings, landing a single top 5, four top 10s, and a 25th place finish.
Reflecting on his seven-year Cup Series journey, Suarez’s standout year was undoubtedly 2022. His partnership with Ross Chastain sparked success, witnessing six top 5s, 13 top 10s, and commanding 280 laps, including the clincher at Sonoma in June.
Chastain’s instrumental role was evident. Joining the team in 2022, he kickstarted Trackhouse Racing, bagging four top-5 finishes in the initial six races and securing wins at Circuit of the Americas and Talladega, tallying 15 top 5s, 21 top 10s, and a second-place finish in the final standings.
However, Chastain saw a slight dip in 2023 with 10 top 5s and 14 top 10s, despite clinching two trophies and securing a playoff spot.
Norris’ optimism for Suarez’s resurgence to 2022’s glory seems ambitious, considering historical figures. Ironically, the No. 1 team’s anticipated successes in the upcoming seasons would only underscore the No. 99 team’s efforts if they fail to match those achievements.”
ALSO READ: Daniel Suarez Faces Crucial Season Ahead in NASCAR’s 2024 Campaign
Our Reader’s Queries
How did Daniel Suárez get into Racing?
Starting his racing journey in 2002, Suárez, hailing from Monterrey in Nuevo León, began with karting. He proved his mettle by winning the class championship in 2007. The following year, he entered the preliminary category of NASCAR Mexico, Mini-Stocks, and created history by becoming the youngest driver to win a race in the series in 2008.
Has there ever been a Mexican NASCAR driver?
Daniel Suárez has made history by becoming the first Mexican-born driver to win in the NASCAR Cup Series. Witness his triumphant moment as he takes the checkered flag and secures his place in the annals of NASCAR Cup Series history at Sonoma Raceway.
What ethnicity is Daniel Suárez?
With the distinction of being the sole Mexican-born Cup race victor and the only Mexican to clinch a championship in any of NASCAR’s three national series, Suarez has the advantage of drawing from his past experiences to manage the stress.
Which NASCAR team does Pitbull own?
Trackhouse Racing, co-owned by Justin Marks and Pitbull, is set to expand beyond NASCAR. The team recently revealed their plans to enter the MotoGP World Championship, starting from the 2024 season. This exciting development marks a new chapter for the team, as they venture into the world of motorcycle racing. With their impressive track record and commitment to excellence, we can expect great things from Trackhouse Racing in the years to come. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting new venture!
