Indiana Native Talks Future in NASCAR After Team Shutdown

Stewart-Haas Racing is calling it quits at the end of the season, leaving six drivers and several crew members as free agents.

I've watched NASCAR (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) on and off for a number of years, but I found myself hooked on the motor sport this season. (Perhaps this is the next stage of male progression?) Growing up, I was a Kevin Harvick fan, but upon his retirement in 2023, I decided to find a new driver to cheer on. Earlier this year, I became a Chase Briscoe fan, not only because of his Indiana ties but also because of his talent, humility, and positive attitude.

According to the race car driver's website, Briscoe is a third-generation racer from Mitchell, Indiana. He got his start on dirt tracks around the Hoosier State and currently drives the No. 14 car for Stewart-Haas Racing, which is owned by fellow Hoosier Tony Stewart and Gene Haas of Ohio. Unfortunately, Briscoe's time in that car will be cut short after some big news from the team.

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Stewart-Haas Racing announced at the end of May that it would be ceasing racing operations at the end of the 2024 season. CBS News reported the team plans to sell all of their assets, including four Cup Series charters. As for the drivers and crew members, they will become free agents at the end of the season. The team currently features four Cup Series drivers, which include Josh Berry, Noah Gragson, Ryan Preece, and Briscoe. Additionally, the team has two Xfinity Series drivers, Cole Custer and Riley Herbst.

According to NASCAR, Briscoe previously drove the No. 98 car in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, where he raced to a total of 11 victories overall. Upon his Cup Series debut in 2021, he earned the title of "2021 Rookie of the Year" and, in 2022, picked up his first Cup Series win at Phoenix Raceway. Currently, the Hoosier native is ranked #17 in the Cup Series after placing 28th in the Iowa Corn 350 on June 16, 2024. Here is what Briscoe said on Facebook shortly after his team's announcement:

According to Sportskeeda, Briscoe said he is very close to finding a new team. Many speculate that he will replace Martin Truex Jr. at Joe Gibbs Racing, as Truex Jr. is retiring after nearly two decades on the track. Personally, I'd love to see Briscoe continue racing. From what I've seen, this Hoosier native has a lot of heart and talent. If given the right opportunity, I believe the 29-year-old will continue to succeed in NASCAR.