Stewart Haas Racing announces their 2023 crew chief line-up
SHR driver Cole Custer was demoted to the Xfinity series following two poor seasons with the No:41 team.
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Stewart Hass Racing cars in Daytona (Credits: SHR Twitter)
Stewart Haas Racing has been one of the prominent NASCAR teams for decades, but since their owner-driver Tony Stewart and Kevin Harvick in 2014, no driver has been able to secure the cup title. The mustang team has consistently performed in cup races over the years and produced some iconic wins, but the championship still remains a long dream.
The 2023 season is big for SHR as the No:4 team driver Kevin Harvick, the oldest active cup driver might retire. He has been the most successful driver for the team since his debut. His teammate Aric Almirola is also nearing retirement. This opens up two big spots to fill for the team for 2024. It’s time for Chase Briscoe who had an impressive 2022 to level and take charge.
Ryan Preece who returned to the cup garage for 2023 replacing Cole Custer, who was demoted to the Xfinity Series, will be aiming for redemption. This is the second and probably last chance to write cup legacy. To assist Piers and Custer in proving their worth SHR has announced new crew chiefs for them.
Chad Johnston will join Ryan in the No: 42 team. He was Tony Stewart’s crew chief in the 2014-15 season. Cole Custer, an Xfinity title favorite this year, will be assisted by Jonathan Toney, who was promoted to race engineer, in the No:00 team.
Why was the duo given the opportunity to lead Stewart Haas Ring teams
“In Chad Johnston and Jonathan Toney, we’ve got two guys who are hungry to win that also bring a lot of smarts and experience to each of their roles. Both are very familiar with our program and our people,” said Greg Zipadelli, chief competition officer, SHR.
“It’s great to have Chad back with our race team. A lot of the people he worked with when he was here before are still here today, and he already has a rapport with Ryan Preece. Chad fits in seamlessly and has a tremendous work ethic,” Greg Zipadelli added.
“Jonathan has been a workhorse, and his fingerprints are on a lot of the success this team has enjoyed. He’s been here since the very beginning and knows this place inside and out. Jonathan has definitely earned this opportunity and all of us are proud to see him take on this new role,” Greg Zipadelli explained.
Rodney Childers will once again partner with Kevin Harvick, maybe for one last year. There is the longest active driver-crew chief partnership. The duo has won 37 races and a championship together. John Klausmeier will lead the No. 14 team and Chase Briscoe. Drew Blickensderfer will remain Almirola and the No. 10 team crew chief in 2023.
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Justin P Joy
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