USA Today via Reuters
Feb 16, 2022; Daytona, FL, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Kyle Busch (18) talks to the press during Daytona 500 media day at Daytona International Speedway. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Feb 16, 2022; Daytona, FL, USA; NASCAR Cup Series driver Kyle Busch (18) talks to the press during Daytona 500 media day at Daytona International Speedway. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Earlier, Kyle Busch announced that he is signing up with Richard Childress Racing for the 2023 NASCAR Cup season. In essence, this will be a massive blow for Joe Gibbs Racing and Toyota.
The first and most obvious blow is that they are losing a top driver of Busch’s caliber and didn’t try hard enough to retain him.
However, it is worth mentioning that there are other consequences besides just losing a driver.
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Yes. KBM will switch to Chevrolet and will need sponsors and drivers. Nemechek and Heim will work with Toyota to find new homes. Chandler Smith also has been looking for a 2023 ride. https://t.co/RahyXncWQk
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) September 14, 2022
Busch is a team owner and now looks set to switch from Toyota to Chevrolet. So, Kyle Busch Motorsports will run Chevrolet trucks from now onwards.
As a result of this, John Hunter Nemechek, Corey Heim, and Chandler Smith will have to look elsewhere.
What else does the Kyle Busch and RCR deal mean?
The only way that the three drivers can remain with KBM is if they disassociate themselves with Toyota Racing Development. Unfortunately, this could be a two-pronged headache for many people. First and foremost, Nemechek, Heim and Smith will have to hunt for a new team or hope that Toyota partner with another team.
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Meanwhile, Kyle Busch will also be affected as he has to convince Chevrolet to supply trucks for his team. Additionally, there is a possibility that he will have to look for new drivers to fill the vacant seats. To be honest, it would be a shame to see talented drivers like Nemechek, Heim and Smith without a drive. However, it is also possible that teams will be jumping to snatch them up.
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WATCH STORY: Surprise NASCAR Teams Emerge as the Front-Runners in the Kyle Busch Rat Race
Currently, there are 5 teams that run Toyota trucks, so the three drivers will have to try their luck there. Furthermore, Busch will have to see who he can recruit into his team for the upcoming Truck Series season. Without a doubt, there will be plenty of drivers in the Richard Childress Racing stable, who will be eager to jump in.
