The NASCAR community has been abuzz following recent developments surrounding Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR), the team co-owned by Tony Stewart and Gene Haas. News has emerged that the team has informed the North Carolina Department of Commerce about plans to lay off up to 323 employees. This revelation has sparked a significant response from fans and insiders, marking a pivotal moment in the team’s history.
Stewart-Haas Racing, established in 2009 when Tony Stewart partnered with Gene Haas, quickly became a formidable presence in NASCAR. Originally formed from the remnants of Haas CNC Racing, the team has seen considerable success over the years. SHR has secured two Cup Series championships—Tony Stewart clinching the title in 2011 and Kevin Harvick following suit in 2014. Additionally, the team has celebrated an Xfinity Series title, won by Cole Custer in 2023, and has accumulated a remarkable 100 victories across various NASCAR series.
Despite these achievements, SHR’s recent announcement that it will shut down operations following the conclusion of the season at Phoenix Raceway has left many fans and employees reeling. Several factors have contributed to this decision, including a lack of recent victories and the withdrawal of major sponsors. The team has struggled to find consistent success on the track, with its last Cup Series win coming in 2022 at the Richmond Raceway, courtesy of Harvick. Moreover, key sponsors like Anheuser-Busch, Smithfield, and Hunt Brothers Pizza have opted not to renew their partnerships, exacerbating the financial challenges faced by the team.
The news of the layoffs was shared by motorsports journalist Adam Stern, who posted on X (formerly known as Twitter) that Stewart-Haas Racing had officially notified the North Carolina Department of Commerce about the impending layoffs. The team’s facility, located at 6001 Haas Way, just north of the Charlotte Motor Speedway, will be the site of these job losses. Stern’s tweet quickly gained traction, with fans expressing their disappointment and concern over the future of the team’s employees.
Reactions from the NASCAR fanbase have been varied, but a common theme is the sadness over the end of an era for Stewart-Haas Racing. Many fans have acknowledged that the decision is likely driven by financial concerns, reflecting the broader challenges facing NASCAR teams in securing sponsorships and maintaining competitive performance. One fan commented, “I hate to hear they are no longer a NASCAR team, but it’s all about money.” Another added, “What a shame. A sad day indeed!” These sentiments were echoed by several others, who also expressed sympathy for the hundreds of employees who will soon be out of work.
Fans have taken to social media to offer support and well-wishes to the affected employees. Some have expressed hope that these individuals will be able to find new opportunities within the NASCAR community. “I hope those 323 employees can find work in NASCAR with another team,” one fan wrote. Others have sent thoughts and prayers, with one adding, “This is heartbreaking. Prayers they all find new jobs.” Another fan suggested, “Thoughts and prayers for those that will lose their jobs due to the team’s shutdown. Hopefully someone will come in and purchase and/or integrate employees into a new or other team.”
While Tony Stewart has yet to make a definitive statement about his future in NASCAR, Gene Haas has confirmed that he will retain one Cup Series charter. The team will be rebranded as Haas Factory Team and will field a single Cup car, with Cole Custer as the driver. Additionally, the team will continue to participate in the Xfinity Series, with Sheldon Creed and Sam Mayer set to drive for the team.
The announcement of SHR’s shutdown has also raised questions about the future of its current Cup Series drivers. Chase Briscoe, who joined SHR in 2021, replacing Clint Bowyer in the #14 Ford Mustang, has already secured a new contract with Joe Gibbs Racing. Briscoe is set to replace the retiring Martin Truex Jr., marking a significant move in his career. Josh Berry, who is in his rookie Cup Series season and has been driving the #4 Ford since Kevin Harvick’s retirement, has signed with Wood Brothers Racing. Berry will replace Harrison Burton starting next season. Noah Gragson, another SHR driver, has also made plans for the future, with a deal in place to race for Front Row Motorsports next year. Gragson will team up with Todd Gilliland as Michael McDowell moves to Spire Motorsports in 2025. Ryan Preece, who has been driving the #41 Ford, remains the only SHR driver whose future plans have not yet been confirmed.
The closure of Stewart-Haas Racing marks the end of a significant chapter in NASCAR’s recent history. The team’s journey, filled with triumphs and challenges, reflects the ever-evolving nature of motorsports, where financial stability and on-track success are closely intertwined. As fans and industry insiders continue to process the news, the focus now shifts to the future of the team’s employees and drivers, as well as the broader implications for NASCAR as a whole.
In summary, the announcement of Stewart-Haas Racing’s impending shutdown has sent shockwaves through the NASCAR community. The team’s decision to lay off over 300 employees highlights the difficulties faced by NASCAR teams in maintaining financial viability and competitive performance. As the team prepares to close its doors, fans and insiders alike are left to reflect on the legacy of Stewart-Haas Racing and the uncertain future that lies ahead for those who have been a part of its journey.
The post <br>“It’s all about money”: Fans react as Tony Stewart’s NASCAR team reportedly prepares to lay off 300+ employees appeared first on Classic Sport.
