Well here’s an interesting twist I didn’t see coming…
Smithfield Foods has settled a misunderstanding with Richard Petty Motorsports.
On September 12th, it was announced that Smithfield Foods would join forces with Stewart-Haas Racing. They listed ‘performance issues’ as the reason for their departure from their previous partners at Richard Petty Motorsports.
That same day, Richard Petty expressed his disappointment in the decision. He felt blind-sided, as the owner of RPM thought they had a deal for 2018. Petty claims it was a handshake deal, nothing on paper.
Related: “I recently shook hands on a deal to extend our relationship.” – Richard Petty
In turn, the Smithfield CEO basically called Richard Petty a liar.
Now, they are back on good terms. Smithfield issued a statement to the Sports Business Journal, announcing they would be back with Richard Petty Motorsports in 2018.
Smithfield Statement
“We’re pleased that there has been a resolution to this misunderstand,” Smithfield Foods stated to Adam Stern of the Sports Business Journal.
“Smithfield has enjoyed it six year relationship with RPM and like any NASCAR supporter, we want to continue to see the No. #43 car on the track for years to come.”
“Richard is truly a legend in NASCAR – a sport and community of fans that we love and are proud to continue the support in 2018.”
-Smithfield Foods
It’s un-known to what level Smithfield will return to Richard Petty Motorsports. It can be assumed that they will transform to an associate sponsor for RPM while serving a bigger sponsorship role with SHR.
Next season, Smithfield Foods now have two different Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series teams fueled by bacon! The partnership with Richard Petty Motorsports will be ‘different’ for 2018.
Related: Smithfield Foods to Stewart-Haas Racing
Related: Richard Petty Motorsports shop lease set to expire
Links
SportsBusiness Journal | Smithfield Foods | Richard Petty Motorsports | Stewart-Haas Racing | NASCAR
