NASCAR’s “silly season” of free-agency has kicked off early this year, with several notable moves and potential changes in the works. One team that could undergo significant transformations is Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR). Co-owners Tony Stewart and Gene Haas are reportedly considering selling their four charters and exploring options to sell or lease part of their headquarters in Kannapolis, N.C. Front Row Motorsports (FRM) is a leading candidate to purchase one of SHR’s charters and may relocate to one of the buildings on SHR’s campus.
If FRM acquires one of SHR’s charters, it raises questions about the future of SHR. The team’s deal with Ford is up at the end of the season, and without a manufacturer deal for 2025, SHR’s days as a Cup team may be numbered. Several teams, including Trackhouse Racing, 23XI Racing, Legacy Motor Club, and Richard Childress Racing, are known to be charter shopping and could potentially acquire SHR’s remaining charters.
The uncertainty surrounding SHR’s future has left many employees wondering about their futures. The team has indicated that it hopes to make a decision by the end of the month. In terms of drivers, Chase Briscoe is likely to generate interest from other teams if SHR sheds charters. Briscoe has been performing well despite the unknowns surrounding SHR and could be a valuable addition to any team.
Trackhouse Racing, owned by Justin Marks, has ambitious plans for expansion beyond its current two-car operation. However, there may be limitations on the number of charters a team can own under the proposed terms of the charter agreement being negotiated with NASCAR. If Trackhouse purchases a third charter as expected, it still leaves them one team short. This raises questions about what will happen to drivers like Zane Smith and Shane van Gisbergen, who are currently part of Trackhouse’s driver lineup.
Austin Dillon, who was rumored to potentially step away from full-time racing, recently signed a multi-year contract extension with Richard Childress Racing. This rules out the possibility of Noah Gragson replacing Dillon, but Gragson could still end up at RCR if they acquire a third charter.
Martin Truex Jr., who has debated retirement in the past, is likely to return for another season. Truex is still competitive and enjoying himself in his 19th season, despite the challenges posed by the Next Gen car. If Truex decides to retire, Joe Gibbs Racing has in-house candidates like Aric Almirola and Chandler Smith who could be considered as replacements.
Bubba Wallace is expected to return to 23XI Racing for another year. Contract talks are said to be close to being finalized. Todd Gilliland is likely to stay with Front Row Motorsports for a fourth season, which would be crucial for the team after losing Michael McDowell.
Justin Haley’s strong performances at Rick Ware Racing have positioned him as a potential candidate for a ride with a bigger team. Haley is under contract for 2025 but may be tempted by opportunities with other organizations.
The future of Harrison Burton at Wood Brothers Racing is uncertain as his contract is set to expire. While Burton has had an inconsistent tenure with the team, he brings sponsorship from DEX Imaging, which could impact his chances of staying or finding opportunities elsewhere.
Overall, NASCAR’s “silly season” is already in full swing, with many potential changes and moves on the horizon. As teams evaluate their options and negotiate deals, the landscape of the Cup Series could look very different in the coming years.