Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR), a powerhouse in NASCAR, has announced its closure after the 2024 season. Co-owners Tony Stewart and Gene Haas made the difficult decision, leaving fans and drivers alike reflecting on the team’s legacy.
Since its formation in 2009, SHR has been a force to be reckoned with. Two Cup Series titles, 69 checkered flags, and a roster of iconic drivers—Stewart, Harvick, Newman, and Busch—have defined its legacy. However, recent years have posed challenges.
🗣️ “I think it’s gonna be a challenge for everybody.”
🚗 @RyanPreece_ reacts to the closing of @StewartHaasRcng at the end of this season and shares how how it’ll impact all involved moving forward.
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— SiriusXM NASCAR Radio (Ch. 90) (@SiriusXMNASCAR) June 4, 2024
For drivers like Ryan Preece, part of SHR’s Cup Series stable, the closure is bittersweet. Preece shared his thoughts, acknowledging the challenge ahead. The tight-knit SHR family will disband, and drivers must seek new opportunities.
During a talk with SiriusXM NASCAR Radio, Preece said, “I think it’s gonna be a challenge for everybody.” He also shed light for the search for his next job to be on the NASCAR grid.
Stewart-Haas Racing: The End of an Era
The Next Gen era brought changes, and SHR struggled to maintain its dominance. Blue-chip teams like Joe Gibbs Racing and Hendrick Motorsports surged ahead, leaving Stewart-Haas Racing behind. The retirements of Stewart, Harvick, and Bowyer further complicated matters.
Off the track, SHR faced sponsorship challenges. Smithfield exited NASCAR entirely, and Anheuser-Busch shifted its support to Trackhouse Racing. Losing Ford’s backing added to the strain. Haas and Stewart’s interest waned as they pursued other ventures—Formula One for Haas and NHRA racing for Stewart.
As Stewart-Haas Racing prepares to close its doors, the racing community reflects on its legacy. It’s a reminder that even giants face tough decisions. For Preece and others, the road ahead will be uncertain, but their resilience will define the next chapter.
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