Kevin Harvick has left an indelible mark in NASCAR with his career spanning almost three decades. NASCAR recognized his contributions by adding his name to NASCAR’s 75 Greatest Drivers list, and post-retirement, he will certainly be inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Now that it’s confirmed that he will be joining FOX: NASCAR’s broadcasting team next year, all that his fans want for him is to have the most iconic of Swan Songs.
Now, the question on everyone’s lips is—who will fill the shoes of this exceptional driver? Harvick’s departure will leave a void in SHR that will undoubtedly be hard to fill. Moreover, it’s not just SHR that will feel his absence—it will be his peers as well. Over the years, Harvick has been instrumental in highlighting drivers’ concerns and putting them across to the sport’s governing body.
Kevin Harvick: The voice and ambassador of the grid
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‘The Closer’ has been thinking about this decision for five years. Now, at the age of 47, Harvick is prepared and filled with anticipation for the next exciting challenge in his life.
Bu Kevin Harvick is more than just a driver; he is a prominent figure known for his outspoken nature, particularly regarding fellow drivers’ safety concerns. He has expressed his valuable thoughts on numerous occasions. Last year, he voiced his opinions on Kurt Busch’s accident, bringing attention to the issue. Additionally, Harvick has raised concerns about the safety of the Next Gen car. This was evident when he spoke out after his car caught fire in Darlington. It is safe to say that Harvick is not only a driver but also a crucial voice within the sport.
Considering his influential role, Harvick’s absence from the grid will undoubtedly impact his fellow drivers. NASCAR insider Freddie Kraft’s venture CouchRacer took to Twitter and called for a new ambassador who can step up and fill the void left by Kevin Harvick.
Kevin Harvick announced his retirement from NASCAR after the 2023 season.
Harvick was thrust into the spotlight in 2001, and undoubtedly built a Hall of Fame career. pic.twitter.com/uWCiVUcIsV
— NASCAR on NBC (@NASCARonNBC) January 12, 2023
The tweet read: “Drivers in the Cup Series are going to miss @KevinHarvick as a driver. He’s their biggest voice and ambassador with NASCAR. When he takes the helmet off and picks the microphone up they’ll have a void. No idea which veteran will step up.”
In the absence of Kevin Harvick, the grid as a whole will need a driver who can effectively convey the drivers’ concerns as well as be the voice of reason. It will have to be someone respected across the board and fans already have come up with deserving names.
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Fans prefer Kyle Busch, Denny Hamlin, and Brad Keselowski to fill in Harvick’s shoes
In Harvick’s absence, there will arise the need for a new ambassador of the sport. Fortunately, there are a few experienced drivers currently on the grid who could step up and assume this role. Among them, Kyle Busch, Denny Hamlin, and Brad Keselowski stand out as the most seasoned individuals. These drivers have accumulated valuable experience over the years, making them potential candidates to become the voice of the sport.
Fans expressed their preferences, flooding the comment section with various choices.
Drivers in the Cup Series are going to miss @KevinHarvick as a driver. He’s their biggest voice and ambassador with NASCAR. When he takes the helmet off and picks the microphone up they’ll have a void. No idea which veteran will step up.
— Couch Racer (@CouchRacerShop) June 11, 2023
One fan suggested, “@keselowski will take over that role.”
While others leaned towards Busch and Hamlin, “That’s up to either @KyleBusch or @dennyhamlin.”
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Denny Hamlin received a significant amount of support from fans, mostly because of his honesty and the fact that he doesn’t mince his words. Fans commented, “I think @dennyhamlin is doing a pretty good job” and “I agree, Hamlin is no advocate!”
However, some fans acknowledged the potential conflict of interest that could arise from being team owners, stating, “Hamlin, Kesolowski come to mind but I believe being owners hurts with it being a bit of conflict of interest.”
Another fan mentioned, “The only one I can think of is @keselowski or @KyleBusch. Other than them it’s just a bunch of talking heads”
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Who do you think should be the next ambassador of the sport? Share your choices in the comment section below.