The move brings up questions for Kurt Busch in 2022
Trackhouse Racing joined NASCAR at the start of the 2021 season. The team is co-owned by Justin Marks. Months ago, rapper Pitbull joined the team as a co-owner role. As of now, Daniel Suarez pilots their No. 99 entry.
For 2021, the charter the No. 99 is using is a charter leased by Spire Motorsports. Kaulig Racing previously announced they would expand to a full-time team for two cars. They have purchased the charter that Spire Motorsports is leasing to Trackhouse.
A charter ensures a starting position in every NASCAR Cup Series race. It’s a way to protect the full-time operations.
Trackhouse Racing will lose their current charter for 2022. Despite that, the team will grow for 2022. And, their recent purchase confirmed that.
Just weeks ago, the team announced that it has acquired all of Chip Ganassi Racing’s NASCAR operation. The team currently fields the No. 1 driven by Kurt Busch and the No. 42 driven by Ross Chastain.
Trackhouse Racing will take over both CGR charters at the end of the 2021 season. Moments ago, the team announced a driver for the No. 1 machine.
Related: Trackhouse Racing acquires Chip Ganassi Racing in NASCAR
Trackhouse Racing Comments
“Ross is a young, aggressive driver that we believe has the talent to win races at the Cup Series level,” Justin Marks said. “We think his personality and work ethic will fit perfectly with Daniel as we build our organization for the 2022 season and beyond.”
28-year-old, Ross Chastain will maintain his role with the new team. He will move from the No. 42 to the No. 1 car.
“This is another dream come true for me,” Ross Chastain said via a team statement.
Chastain added, “Trackhouse is one of the most interesting organizations in the garage. The enthusiasm they bring off the track and the program they are building on the track is exciting. Working with Daniel and Justin, however I can, is my number one priority. I know that I can help build our Chevrolets to be as strong as possible.”
Daniel Suarez stated, “I am very happy with the selection of Ross as a teammate next year. He brings a lot to the table. I am looking forward to start working with him and making our two Trackhouse cars as fast as possible. I know we are going to win races.”
Chastain has 101 starts in the NASCAR Cup Series. He has six top-10 runs this year for Chip Ganassi Racing.
Related: Ross Chastain disallowed NASCAR Truck entry at Watkins Glen
Kurt Busch?
Unless Trackhouse Racing buys an additional charter of fields a part-time car, it appears Kurt Busch will not be moving to Trackhouse following the Chip Ganassi Racing aquisition.
At the start of the 2021 season, Busch released a somewhat cryptic video. In the video, Busch brought up the retirement discussion but nothing has been confirmed.
Busch is in his 21st season of NASCAR Cup Series competition. He’s collected 33 wins throughout his career. In 2004, he won the series title.
Related: Is Kurt Busch retiring from NASCAR? (Video)
Links
Ross Chastain | Daniel Suarez | Kurt Busch | Trackhouse Racing | Chip Ganassi Racing | Monster Energy | NASCAR
