NASCAR Bombshell: Stewart-Haas Racing Parts Ways with Ford, Future Manufacturer Unknown

Get ready, NASCAR fans, because a monumental shake-up is on the horizon! Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR), a powerhouse name in the sport, has officially announced it will be parting ways with Ford Performance after the checkered flag drops on the 2024 season. This bombshell news sends ripples throughout the racing world, leaving everyone wondering: what's next for the four-car Cup Series team and their two Xfinity Series counterparts?

The confirmation came directly from Stewart-Haas Racing, who stated, "We have informed Ford Performance that we will not be seeking a new agreement to continue our partnership after the 2024 season.

We will provide additional details regarding our plans for 2025 and beyond in the coming weeks." This brief but impactful statement has ignited a frenzy of speculation regarding which manufacturer will step in to fill Ford's shoes. Rumors are already swirling, with Toyota and Chevrolet being the prime candidates to align with one of NASCAR's most established teams.

For Ford, the departure of SHR marks the end of a significant chapter.

Mark Rushbrook, Global Director of Ford Performance Motorsports, expressed his sentiments, stating, "We appreciate all the work and success we’ve shared with Stewart-Haas Racing over the years. We will continue to work hard together on track to compete for wins and a championship in 2024. We wish them nothing but the best for the future." Indeed, their partnership, which began in 2017, saw notable achievements, including championships and numerous race victories, solidifying SHR's place as a top-tier Ford team.

Prior to joining the Blue Oval brigade, SHR had a long and successful history with Chevrolet, even securing a Cup Series championship with co-owner Tony Stewart in 2011.

The impending switch back to a new manufacturer will be a familiar transition, though no less complex. The decision comes amidst a challenging 2024 season for SHR, with the team grappling for consistent strong finishes. This move could be a strategic pivot aimed at revitalizing their performance and securing a brighter future.

The ramifications extend beyond just the manufacturers.

The futures of SHR's current driver lineup – Chase Briscoe, Noah Gragson, Josh Berry, and Ryan Preece in the Cup Series, along with their Xfinity drivers – are now subject to intense scrutiny. A change in manufacturer often brings shifts in driver alliances and sponsorship opportunities, making the coming months crucial for many careers within the team.

The announcement, coming well before the mid-season mark, gives both Stewart-Haas Racing and Ford ample time to strategize for their respective futures.

As the NASCAR community collectively holds its breath, all eyes will be on Stewart-Haas Racing for their next announcement. Will it be a return to a former partner, or a brand-new alliance that reshapes the competitive landscape? One thing is certain: the 2025 NASCAR season is already shaping up to be one of the most intriguing in recent memory.