Published 01/22/2023, 3:55 AM EST
Kevin Harvick turned 47 in December last year. The NASCAR veteran had left things purposely vague on questions of his retirement, but no one was fooled. It was going to come sooner or later. The Stewart-Haas Racing driver finally announced it a few days back. But the question now is – who will replace the man?
Harvick’s age had absolutely no effect on what the driver could offer in the car, and therefore replacing him at Stewart-Haas Racing would be a tough task for Tony Stewart & Co.
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Problems facing Tony Stewart & SHR
At the same time, the standards at SHR are really high. Being one of the few teams that can regularly challenge for wins and playoff berths, it would be an opportunity for a lifetime for any driver. However, the real obstacle between SHR and its prospects is timing.
In the past year or so, most big names of NASCAR have signed multi-million deals. From Kyle Larson, William Byron, and Christopher Bell at Hendrick Motorsports, to Joey Logano and Ryan Blaney at Team Penske—each one of these drivers is now on long contracts with their teams.
Similarly, Kyle Busch and Tyler Reddick will be debuting for their new teams in 2023. They, too, are on multi-year deals and would be unlikely to make a move once again.
The timing of Harvick’s retirement, therefore, comes at a tricky time for the team. To get a driver out of a long-term deal would be next to impossible. Even if they do manage to convince them, it’ll be extremely expensive.
Reviewing the options available to replace Kevin Harvick
The table does look incredibly scarce, with most A-listers out of contention. But there are still a few good options that could make the cut. With the experience of Stewart to back them up, a punt might work out in the long term.
Jul 3, 2022; Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Kevin Harvick (4) before the start of the KWIK TRIP 250 at Road America. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-USA TODAY Sports
The Athletic spoke to a number of insiders in NASCAR and came up with a few names that could make the switch. On the top of that list is Ross Chastain. The Trackhouse Racing driver is in his last year with the team. He also brings the added sponsorship marketability effect.
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That becomes a crucial factor given Harvick’s long-time sponsors, Anheuser-Busch, haven’t yet made their decision about staying beyond 2023 and could jump ship too.
In close second would be Erik Jones, currently at Jimmie Johnson’s Legacy Motor Club. He has talent—as his wins at the Southern 500 attest—and also has age on his side. Just 26 years old, he could become a long-term option for the team.
But here too, there are issues. His long deal with Legacy would be the first obstacle. Also, his previous experiences at Joe Gibbs Racing weren’t the greatest, and joining another ‘big’ team like SHR would pose the same questions.
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Watch This Story: Potential Kevin Harvick Replacement Stirs the Pot With His Response
Harvick would be aiming to finish his last year in the best possible manner, but he will definitely be leaving behind a gaping hole as he leaves. Who do you think will replace him?