The NASCAR Cup Series is renowned for its top-tier teams. Historically, superstar drivers like Dale Earnhardt, Richard Petty, Jeff Gordon, and Jimmie Johnson dominated the spotlight. However, in the absence of a clear star driver, the teams themselves have gained popularity among fans.
In the 2000s, Hendrick Motorsports and Jack Roush were the dominant forces, but new contenders like Stewart Haas Racing, Joe Gibbs Racing, and Team Penske rose to prominence, becoming the Big Four of NASCAR.
NASCAR Cup Series to become a three-horse race in 2024
Over the years, Cup racing has seen significant changes. Teams like Richard Childress Racing and Hendrick Motorsports once dominated seasons, but the landscape began to shift after Jimmie Johnson’s reign ended in 2010, largely due to Stewart Haas Racing. They won the 2011 championship with Tony Stewart as both owner and driver. Team Penske also emerged as a strong competitor, winning the 2012 title with Brad Keselowski. Stewart Haas Racing returned to championship form with Kevin Harvick in 2014.
The past decade featured intense competition among these four teams. Hendrick Motorsports (HMS) sought new talent, while Joe Gibbs Racing won two championships with Kyle Busch. As the new decade began, Stewart Haas Racing struggled, while HMS regained success with Kyle Larson, and Team Penske achieved consecutive victories in 2022 and 2023.
Predicting the 2024 season is challenging. Kyle Larson and Chase Elliott are leading HMS, while JGR relies on Denny Hamlin and Christopher Bell. Ryan Blaney has also regained form for Team Penske. Meanwhile, Stewart Haas Racing’s struggles led Tony Stewart and Gene Haas to announce the team’s closure after the 2024 season, transforming the Big Four into a three-horse race. New teams may rise to restore the Big Four dynamic.
Potential Contenders: 23XI Racing, Trackhouse Racing, and Front Row Motorsports
23XI Racing, founded by Denny Hamlin and Michael Jordan, has made significant strides since 2021, with four Cup wins and playoff regulars Bubba Wallace and Tyler Reddick. The No. 45 car is a strong contender for the regular season championship in 2024. Rumors suggest 23XI plans to add a third charter, boosting their competitiveness.
Front Row Motorsports, despite its long history, has recently made notable progress with drivers like Michael McDowell. They have already added a third charter, signaling their intent to compete more effectively. Todd Gilliland and Noah Gragson will lead the team in 2025, with another driver likely joining soon.
Trackhouse Racing has ambitious plans to challenge the top teams. Ross Chastain and Daniel Suarez have contributed to six Cup Series wins, and the team focuses on developing talent, including Shane van Gisbergen, Zane Smith, and Conor Zilisch. They also plan to add a third driver with a new charter.
Keep an eye on RFK Racing and Legacy Motor Club, which blend traditional and modern NASCAR approaches and are building their racing programs independently.
