Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR) holds a significant legacy in NASCAR history. Gene Haas initially faced limited success as a team owner with Haas CNC Racing. The team’s highlight came when Mike Bliss narrowly missed the 2005 All-Star Race. However, the transformation began in 2008 when Haas partnered with Tony Stewart, marking the creation of a powerhouse. Together, the team clinched two championships in 2011 and 2014, along with 70 Cup race victories. Despite this illustrious past, SHR’s era came to a close in mid-2024. However, Gene Haas remains determined to continue his NASCAR success story, now with the assistance of Brad Keselowski.
The Evolution of SHR and Keselowski’s Role
Tony Stewart, a three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion, played a pivotal role in SHR’s initial success. Alongside Ryan Newman, the team secured seven victories between 2009 and 2010. Stewart’s 2011 championship victory, achieved by narrowly defeating Carl Edwards, remains a highlight. Ending this association with Stewart was undoubtedly a tough decision for Haas. However, Haas has turned to Brad Keselowski, the 2012 NASCAR Cup Series champion, for assistance in building a new team: the Haas Factory Team (HFT).
Keselowski’s involvement stems from his leadership role at RFK Racing, a team that has seen significant improvement since he joined in 2022. Under Keselowski’s guidance, RFK Racing has regained competitiveness. In 2023, Chris Buescher secured three victories, and Keselowski himself ended a long winless streak and made the playoffs. This upward trajectory makes RFK Racing an ideal technical ally for HFT.
A Strategic Alliance
HFT’s collaboration with RFK Racing offers Gene Haas the technical support and insights necessary to rebuild his NASCAR presence. Aaron Kramer, HFT’s crew chief and a former RFK engineer, highlighted the mutual benefits of this partnership. Kramer emphasized the exchange of information, setups, and strategies while maintaining a competitive spirit on the track. Despite the collaboration, he clarified that RFK Racing would not offer preferential treatment to HFT during races, preserving the rivalry.
Challenges and Opportunities
The introduction of the Next-Gen car in NASCAR has leveled the playing field for smaller teams, providing a more equal opportunity for success. For single-car operations like HFT, this means a greater focus on driver skills, pit crew efficiency, and strategic decision-making. Joe Custer, the head of HFT, expressed optimism about utilizing RFK Racing’s technical expertise while contributing resources to strengthen the partnership.
Custer noted that HFT’s growth strategy involves leveraging insights from Keselowski and RFK while integrating its existing assets. This collaborative approach aims to replicate the brilliance that Tony Stewart once brought to SHR.
Looking Ahead
The alliance between HFT and RFK Racing symbolizes Gene Haas’ commitment to maintaining a competitive edge in NASCAR. Brad Keselowski’s leadership and technical support provide a solid foundation for this new chapter. While the challenges are significant, the potential for success is equally promising, keeping Haas’ Cup Series ambitions alive and potentially upholding the legacy of Stewart-Haas Racing.