The current NASCAR charter agreement, which ensures that the race teams that opt in have a guaranteed spot on the grid, is set to expire at the end of the 2024 racing season, leaving some NASCAR Ford teams concerned about the future of the sport. At least one Blue Oval team, Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR), is currently in talks to sell its charters, according to a report from Fox Sports.
SHR, which currently fields four NASCAR Ford Mustang Dark Horse race cars in the Cup Series, has not yet renewed its contract with Ford beyond the 2024 racing season. Additionally, SHR has sent information to interested parties regarding the sales of its charters, which could mean downsizing its four-car operation.
There are several Cup Series teams that could benefit from purchasing SHR’s charters, including Trackhouse Racing, Legacy Motor Club, 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports.
Of those, Front Row Motorsports is the only Ford-backed team, meaning it would be an easy transition for the organization to purchase an SHR charter – assuming SHR stays with The Blue Oval, of course.
SHR has a massive campus, and could stand to downsize its physical footprint by selling off one of its building. There’s the SHR shop, where the team builds its NASCAR Ford race cars, while the other building houses the Haas F1 U.S. headquarters.
Beyond a potential charter sale, the future of the four drivers at SHR is up in the air. Ryan Preece, who currently drives the No. 41 Mustang, is in the last year of his contract, potentially making him a free agent as “silly season” ramps up. Noah Gragson, driver of the No. 10 Mustang, has shown strength over the last few races, potentially making him a valuable asset to SHR, while rookie Josh Berry has had a promising run so far in the No. 4 Mustang. Chase Briscoe will likely stick with the organization to drive the No. 14 Mustang.
Whatever the case, it’ll certainly be interesting to watch what happens to SHR – and the other NASCAR Ford teams – as the 2024 season shakes out.
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Comments
I wonder how much?
What is going on at Ford Oval that is turning off the Nascar drivers ? Could it be the Electric Auto Push at Ford Central ? Why aren’t the Ford Autos winning at Nascar ?
Because Ford don’t pay NASCAR enough money like Chevy and Tokyo does. When Fords were winning, NASCAR gives Chevy a new car and motor and keeps Tokyo plenty competitive. Doesn’t everyone see whats been going on for years? Hendrick has four cars, Gibbs has four cars (now six with 23xi) that wins 90 percent of the races. DUH!!!
I think it’s a streak of bad luck coupled with the new Dark horse body style. The nose is flatter than the Camaro and Camry.