P1racenews AI automatic summary:
NASCAR Cup driver/team changes for the 2024 season
In the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series, top teams like Team Penske, Hendrick Motorsports, and Joe Gibbs Racing remain unchanged. However, Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR) underwent significant changes after going winless in 2023 and losing its two veteran drivers. Kevin Harvick, the 2014 Cup champion, retired from driving and will now work in the broadcasting booth. Aric Almirola will compete part-time with Joe Gibbs Racing in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
SHR has added two new drivers for 2024: Josh Berry and Noah Gragson. Berry replaces Harvick in the No. 4 Ford Mustang and has shown promise in his limited Cup starts. Gragson, who had a tumultuous 2023 season, joins SHR to drive the No. 10 Ford Mustang after completing sensitivity training.
Spire Motorsports, a rapidly-expanding team, also adds two rookies to its lineup for 2024. Carson Hocevar, the youngest full-time driver on the grid, will pilot the No. 77 Chevrolet Camaro. Zane Smith, the 2022 NASCAR Truck Series champion, will drive the No. 71 Chevrolet Camaro for Spire, but is under contract with Trackhouse Racing.
Additionally, Daniel Hemric and John-Hunter Nemechek both have second chances in 2024. Hemric previously competed full-time in the Cup Series in 2019 but had a challenging season. Nemechek also gets another opportunity after struggling in previous seasons.
These changes add excitement and intrigue to the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series.
