ESPN is reporting that sources are telling them that Kevin Harvick will be leaving RCR after the 2013 season and joining Tony Stewart's shop, Stewart-Haas Racing for the 2014 season.
The news stunned many fans across the board, and it seems, Richard Childress was amongst the stunned. Or at least irritated. When reporters tried to chat up this development, he didn't respond so well, suggesting that reporters focus on news and events in the present.
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Kevin Harvick has been a quiet closer in many Sprint Cup races over the last few years, but not a dominant winning contender. And IF this news is anywhere close to accurate, (Judging from the grumpy demeanor of Childress, it might seem to have some validity), then Kevin Harvick will be joining the SHR of Tony Stewart, Ryan Newman, & Danica Patrick. (barring an sponsor issues.)
This leaves the No. 29 seat wide open for the 2014 season. I was thinking about trying to analyze who might fill the seat belts of the car, but 2014 is a long way off, so who knows. Austin Dillon? Elliott Sadler? Or who else might be available and looking for a ride in 2014?
All I can say is this is crazy, a bit disappointing, and a surprise. Or was it? News was that Kevin Harvick almost left back in 2010 the last time his contract was up.
All said... silly season for 2014 has started extremely early.
[ESPN]
Bruce,
ReplyDeleteIt appears that Richard Childress is betting the farm, and his organization, RCR, on his two grandsons, Ty and Austin.
With the departure of Harvick, the loss of Bowyer and Scott Miller to MWR, Jeff Burton in the last year of his contract in 2013, he only has Ty and Austin Dillon to save his organization. That is, unless he can bait a quality driver, from some other race team, to jump ship and climb into one of his RCR hot rods!
Good luck Childress on hoping that your grandsons can save your race teams!