Josh Berry’s Revelation About Tony Stewart Talks Makes a Mockery of Rick Hendrick & Chase Elliott Myth

In the world of NASCAR, there is a prevalent notion that young drivers with connections and financial backing have an easier path to success. The idea of “pay-to-play” often overtakes the conversation, overshadowing the accomplishments and victories of those who have truly earned their place on the track.

However, a recent revelation made by Josh Berry—set to replace Kevin Harvick at Stewart Haas Racing at the end of this season—has shattered this belief and exposed the reality of hard work, talent, and determination that were the key to his success.

Josh Berry dispels the “Hendrick try-out” myth

In the latest episode of The Dale Jr Download podcast, Josh Berry shared insights into his journey to the top level of NASCAR racing. He revealed that his first conversations with Stewart-Haas Racing began even before the start of the season. Berry’s meetings with Tony Stewart and the SHR team took place long before he had the opportunity to showcase his skills on the track as a replacement for Chase Elliott in the #9 with Hendrick Motorsports at the beginning of the season.

Berry revealed, “You know my first conversation with Stewart Haas really began right before the season start. Most of the meetings I had were actually before the season including you know I sat with Tony at Daytona when we were there for the race so this has been ongoing for a bit. By no means finished but just the conversation had started.” 

This dispels the notion that his races driving Hendrick Motorsports equipment were merely a tryout for a future Cup Series ride. It was clear that SHR was already pursuing him, recognizing his potential as a driver.

WATCH THIS STORY: Amid worrying concerns for Tony Stewart following Kevin Harvick’s exit row, Joe Gibbs breathes a sigh of relief

From iRacing to Xfinity to Cup Series: Berry finds high praise from his current and future team owners

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Discovered by Dale Earnhardt Jr over a decade ago on iRacing, Berry was given a chance to prove himself in the Late Model series. He moved from Tennessee to North Carolina and drove for Earnhardt’s team while living with his mother. His talent and results caught the attention of the racing world, leading to opportunities in the NASCAR Xfinity Series with JR Motorsports.

In 2021, he became a full-time Xfinity Series driver, showcasing his skills and winning races. His remarkable journey caught the eye of Stewart and Kevin Harvick, who both believe that Berry has earned his place in the NASCAR Cup Series. Talking about Berry joining the SHR team, Stewart said, “Kevin Harvick has obviously set a very high bar, but Josh brings maturity, experience, and, above all, a winning record to Stewart-Haas Racing. He is the right driver, at the right time, for the #4 team and our organization.” 

Dale Earnhardt Jr. also expressed his confidence in Berry, stating, “What a team will get when they sign Josh Berry to a Cup deal is a driver with great race craft and a turn-key winner. Whereas it’s incredible and a great opportunity to sign a young driver that will develop into a champion, I believe you get to skip those years of development with a guy like Josh, and you get right into working on the championship part and winning races because he’s there mentally, professionally and in talent.” 

At 33 years old, Berry may be considered “older” for a rookie in the Cup Series, but his journey has prepared him for this opportunity. As he takes the wheel in the NASCAR Cup Series, Berry is set to challenge the stereotypes and prove his worth on track.

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