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On the Move: Changes to know for the 2020 season
By RJ Kraft | Tuesday, January 21, 2020
NASCAR
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NASCAR Cup Series
The scoop: In 2020, NASCAR's premier series will be known as the NASCAR Cup Series. Four brands -- Busch Beer, Coca-Cola, GEICO and Xfinity -- will hold Premier Partner positions.
The scoop: In 2020, NASCAR's premier series will be known as the NASCAR Cup Series. Four brands -- Busch Beer, Coca-Cola, GEICO and Xfinity -- will hold Premier Partner positions.
Jared C. Tilton | Getty Images
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Short-track rules package
The scoop: A reduced-downforce package designed to enhance competition on road courses (Sonoma, Watkins Glen and the Charlotte Roval) and the circuit’s shorter oval tracks (Phoenix, Bristol, Richmond, Dover, Martinsville and New Hampshire) is in place for those tracks. The changes include significantly smaller spoilers, splitters and other aerodynamic devices in an effort to place a greater emphasis on handling and driver input with less stabilizing downforce on those tracks. The package draws inspiration from similar rules used in the 2017-18 seasons.
The scoop: A reduced-downforce package designed to enhance competition on road courses (Sonoma, Watkins Glen and the Charlotte Roval) and the circuit’s shorter oval tracks (Phoenix, Bristol, Richmond, Dover, Martinsville and New Hampshire) is in place for those tracks. The changes include significantly smaller spoilers, splitters and other aerodynamic devices in an effort to place a greater emphasis on handling and driver input with less stabilizing downforce on those tracks. The package draws inspiration from similar rules used in the 2017-18 seasons.
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Christopher Bell
Previous ride: No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New ride: No. 95 Leavine Family Racing Toyota in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: With 16 Xfinity Series wins over the past three years, the time has come for Bell to move to the sport’s top level. Crew chief Jason Ratcliff will make the move with Bell as well. It’s reasonable to expect Bell to be in the mix for the playoffs.
Previous ride: No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New ride: No. 95 Leavine Family Racing Toyota in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: With 16 Xfinity Series wins over the past three years, the time has come for Bell to move to the sport’s top level. Crew chief Jason Ratcliff will make the move with Bell as well. It’s reasonable to expect Bell to be in the mix for the playoffs.
Brian Lawdermilk | Getty Images
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Chris Buescher
Previous ride: No. 37 JTG Daugherty Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR's top series.
New ride: No. 17 Roush Fenway Racing Ford in NASCAR's top series.
The scoop: Coming off his best of three seasons with JTG, Buescher is heading home to Roush. He drove in the company’s Xfinity program – scoring the 2015 championship. He has one Cup win and is expected to contend for the playoffs much like his new teammate Ryan Newman achieved in 2019.
Previous ride: No. 37 JTG Daugherty Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR's top series.
New ride: No. 17 Roush Fenway Racing Ford in NASCAR's top series.
The scoop: Coming off his best of three seasons with JTG, Buescher is heading home to Roush. He drove in the company’s Xfinity program – scoring the 2015 championship. He has one Cup win and is expected to contend for the playoffs much like his new teammate Ryan Newman achieved in 2019.
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Landon Cassill
Previous ride: No. 00 StarCom Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
New ride: Plans unknown at this point.
The scoop: After two Cup seasons with StarCom, Cassill will not be the team's full-time driver. In a statement, StarCom Racing said, "we have a commitment to Landon that we plan to honor in 2020. Details to come at a later date."
Previous ride: No. 00 StarCom Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
New ride: Plans unknown at this point.
The scoop: After two Cup seasons with StarCom, Cassill will not be the team's full-time driver. In a statement, StarCom Racing said, "we have a commitment to Landon that we plan to honor in 2020. Details to come at a later date."
Jeff Curry | Getty Images
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Cole Custer
Previous ride: No. 00 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New ride: No. 41 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford in NASCAR's top series.
The scoop: After three full-time seasons and nine wins in the Xfinity Series ranks, Custer is moving up to the top series, replacing Daniel Suarez. The driver is fresh off his best Xfinity season and will compete with familiar foes Christopher Bell and Tyler Reddick for Sunoco Rookie of the Year honors in 2020.
Previous ride: No. 00 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New ride: No. 41 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford in NASCAR's top series.
The scoop: After three full-time seasons and nine wins in the Xfinity Series ranks, Custer is moving up to the top series, replacing Daniel Suarez. The driver is fresh off his best Xfinity season and will compete with familiar foes Christopher Bell and Tyler Reddick for Sunoco Rookie of the Year honors in 2020.
Brian Lawdermilk | Getty Images
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Matt DiBenedetto
Previous ride: No. 95 Leavine Family Racing Toyota in NASCAR's top series.
New ride: No. 21 Wood Brothers Racing Ford in NASCAR's top series.
The scoop: DiBenedetto learned in August he wouldn't be back at Leavine Family Racing and he landed a new ride less than a month later after Paul Menard made the decision to retire. The 28-year-old is coming off his best season to date and should contend for a playoff spot with this move.
Previous ride: No. 95 Leavine Family Racing Toyota in NASCAR's top series.
New ride: No. 21 Wood Brothers Racing Ford in NASCAR's top series.
The scoop: DiBenedetto learned in August he wouldn't be back at Leavine Family Racing and he landed a new ride less than a month later after Paul Menard made the decision to retire. The 28-year-old is coming off his best season to date and should contend for a playoff spot with this move.
Jeff Zelevansky | Getty Images
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Joey Gase
Previous ride: No. 35 Go Green Racing Toyota in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New ride: A Rick Ware Racing car in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Gase will compete full time with Rick Ware Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series. The Iowa native has run six straight full-time seasons in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and has 41 Cup starts to his name during that time as well.
Previous ride: No. 35 Go Green Racing Toyota in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New ride: A Rick Ware Racing car in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Gase will compete full time with Rick Ware Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series. The Iowa native has run six straight full-time seasons in the NASCAR Xfinity Series and has 41 Cup starts to his name during that time as well.
Sean Gardner | Getty Images
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Timmy Hill
Previous ride: Assorted rides in the NASCAR Cup Series and Xfinity Series for team owner Carl Long.
New ride: No. 66 MBM Motorsports Toyota in NASCAR's top series.
The scoop: Hill and MBM are planning to run a full slate in the 2020 season. The 26-year-old made eight Cup starts last year and has 92 to his name in the series. He made 25 Xfinity starts in 2019 too.
Previous ride: Assorted rides in the NASCAR Cup Series and Xfinity Series for team owner Carl Long.
New ride: No. 66 MBM Motorsports Toyota in NASCAR's top series.
The scoop: Hill and MBM are planning to run a full slate in the 2020 season. The 26-year-old made eight Cup starts last year and has 92 to his name in the series. He made 25 Xfinity starts in 2019 too.
Sean Gardner | Getty Images
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Quin Houff
Previous ride: Part-time in the No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
New ride: No. 00 StarCom Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Houff made 17 starts last season in his first taste of Cup duty. The 22-year-old has a two-year deal to drive for StarCom as he is replacing Landon Cassill in the ride. It’s a nominal step up in the sport’s top series for the young driver.
Previous ride: Part-time in the No. 77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
New ride: No. 00 StarCom Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Houff made 17 starts last season in his first taste of Cup duty. The 22-year-old has a two-year deal to drive for StarCom as he is replacing Landon Cassill in the ride. It’s a nominal step up in the sport’s top series for the young driver.
Matt Sullivan | Getty Images
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Paul Menard
Previous ride: No. 21 Wood Brothers Racing Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Menard is stepping away from full-time Cup racing after 13 years full seasons driving for Dale Earnhardt Inc., Robert Yates Racing, Richard Petty Motorsports, Richard Childress Racing and Wood Brothers Racing. His lone win came at the Brickyard in 2011 with RCR.
Previous ride: No. 21 Wood Brothers Racing Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Menard is stepping away from full-time Cup racing after 13 years full seasons driving for Dale Earnhardt Inc., Robert Yates Racing, Richard Petty Motorsports, Richard Childress Racing and Wood Brothers Racing. His lone win came at the Brickyard in 2011 with RCR.
Brian Lawdermilk | Getty Images
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John Hunter Nemechek
Previous ride: No. 23 GMS Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New ride: No. 38 Front Row Motorsports Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: After filling in for the final three races of 2019 at Front Row, Nemechek will run the full slate for the two-car organization in 2020. He will also compete for Sunoco Rookie of the Year honors in a stacked class that includes Cole Custer, Christopher Bell and Tyler Reddick.
Previous ride: No. 23 GMS Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New ride: No. 38 Front Row Motorsports Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: After filling in for the final three races of 2019 at Front Row, Nemechek will run the full slate for the two-car organization in 2020. He will also compete for Sunoco Rookie of the Year honors in a stacked class that includes Cole Custer, Christopher Bell and Tyler Reddick.
Jonathan Ferrey | Getty Images
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Brennan Poole
Previous ride: Part time in No. 30 On Point Motorsports Chevrolet in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
New ride: No. 15 Premium Motorsports Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Poole ran a partial slate of 13 races in 2019 in the Gander Trucks ranks and compiled four top 10s in those starts. He has yet to make a Cup start so the Daytona 500 will mark the Texas native’s first Cup activity in his career.
Previous ride: Part time in No. 30 On Point Motorsports Chevrolet in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
New ride: No. 15 Premium Motorsports Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Poole ran a partial slate of 13 races in 2019 in the Gander Trucks ranks and compiled four top 10s in those starts. He has yet to make a Cup start so the Daytona 500 will mark the Texas native’s first Cup activity in his career.
Brian Lawdermilk | Getty Images
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Ryan Preece
Previous ride: No. 47 JTG Daugherty Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
New ride: No. 37 JTG Daugherty Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: For Year 2 with JTG, Preece will have a new car number as he shifts over to the No. 37 with Trent Owens calling the shots. Owens helped guide Buescher to a four-spot increase in the standings in 2019. Preece had three top 10s in his rookie campaign with JTG.
Previous ride: No. 47 JTG Daugherty Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
New ride: No. 37 JTG Daugherty Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: For Year 2 with JTG, Preece will have a new car number as he shifts over to the No. 37 with Trent Owens calling the shots. Owens helped guide Buescher to a four-spot increase in the standings in 2019. Preece had three top 10s in his rookie campaign with JTG.
Brian Lawdermilk | Getty Images
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David Ragan
Previous ride: No. 38 Front Row Motorsports Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: After 13 full-time seasons in the sport’s top level, Ragan has decided to step away and retire from full-time competition. He will drive in the 2020 Daytona 500, though. The two-time Cup winner drove for Roush Fenway Racing, Front Row Motorsports, Michael Waltrip Racing, Joe Gibbs Racing and BK Racing during his Cup career.
Previous ride: No. 38 Front Row Motorsports Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: After 13 full-time seasons in the sport’s top level, Ragan has decided to step away and retire from full-time competition. He will drive in the 2020 Daytona 500, though. The two-time Cup winner drove for Roush Fenway Racing, Front Row Motorsports, Michael Waltrip Racing, Joe Gibbs Racing and BK Racing during his Cup career.
Chris Graythen | Getty Images
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Tyler Reddick
Previous ride: No. 2 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New ride: No. 8 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Reddick has grabbed back-to-back Xfinity Series championships with two different teams. In 2019, he won six times and has nine career victories in the series where names are made. Now, he takes over the ride vacated by Daniel Hemric, where he will battle Christopher Bell and Cole Custer for Sunoco rookie honors in 2020 and look to make the playoffs.
Previous ride: No. 2 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New ride: No. 8 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Reddick has grabbed back-to-back Xfinity Series championships with two different teams. In 2019, he won six times and has nine career victories in the series where names are made. Now, he takes over the ride vacated by Daniel Hemric, where he will battle Christopher Bell and Cole Custer for Sunoco rookie honors in 2020 and look to make the playoffs.
Stacy Revere | Getty Images
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Ricky Stenhouse Jr.
Previous ride: No. 17 Roush Fenway Racing Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
New ride: No. 47 JTG Daugherty Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: After seven full seasons at Roush, Stenhouse was let go by the organization for which he won back-to-back Xfinity Series championships in 2011-12. He scored two wins in his lone playoff season of 2017. He lands at JTG -- in what in essence has turned into a ride swap between he and Buescher -- where he will contend for a playoff spot.
Previous ride: No. 17 Roush Fenway Racing Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
New ride: No. 47 JTG Daugherty Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: After seven full seasons at Roush, Stenhouse was let go by the organization for which he won back-to-back Xfinity Series championships in 2011-12. He scored two wins in his lone playoff season of 2017. He lands at JTG -- in what in essence has turned into a ride swap between he and Buescher -- where he will contend for a playoff spot.
Brian Lawdermilk | Getty Images
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Daniel Suarez
Previous ride: No. 41 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
New ride: Plans not set yet.
The scoop: After one season at SHR, Suarez is out. The 2016 Xfinity Series champion came to SHR after a two-year Cup stint at Joe Gibbs Racing. In three Cup seasons, he has eight top fives and 32 top 10s. His 2020 plans are unknown at this moment.
Previous ride: No. 41 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
New ride: Plans not set yet.
The scoop: After one season at SHR, Suarez is out. The 2016 Xfinity Series champion came to SHR after a two-year Cup stint at Joe Gibbs Racing. In three Cup seasons, he has eight top fives and 32 top 10s. His 2020 plans are unknown at this moment.
Chris Trotman | Getty Images
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Matt Tifft
Previous ride: No. 36 Front Row Motorsports Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Tifft and Front Row mutually agreed to end their relationship so that Tifft could focus on his health following an incident that sidelined him for the final four races of 2019. In his rookie season, the 23-year-old had one top 10 in 32 starts.
Previous ride: No. 36 Front Row Motorsports Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Tifft and Front Row mutually agreed to end their relationship so that Tifft could focus on his health following an incident that sidelined him for the final four races of 2019. In his rookie season, the 23-year-old had one top 10 in 32 starts.
Brian Lawdermilk | Getty Images
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J.J. Yeley
Previous ride: Part-time rides for Rick Ware Racing in NASCAR’s top series.
New ride: Full-time ride for Rick Ware Racing in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: The veteran driver will pilot one of Rick Ware Racing’s three full-time entries for 2020. He made 15 starts in 2019 at the sport’s top level – all with RWR. In 291 Cup starts, he has eight top-10 finishes.
Previous ride: Part-time rides for Rick Ware Racing in NASCAR’s top series.
New ride: Full-time ride for Rick Ware Racing in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: The veteran driver will pilot one of Rick Ware Racing’s three full-time entries for 2020. He made 15 starts in 2019 at the sport’s top level – all with RWR. In 291 Cup starts, he has eight top-10 finishes.
Sarah Crabill | Getty Images
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Justin Alexander
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 21 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 3 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Alexander moves back atop the No. 3 pit box following Danny Stockman’s resigning after one season. Alexander and Dillon previously worked together for two seasons – winning two crown jewels: The 2017 Coca-Cola 600 and 2018 Daytona 500. He will look to get Dillon back to the playoffs after he missed the postseason for the first time in four years.
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 21 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 3 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Alexander moves back atop the No. 3 pit box following Danny Stockman’s resigning after one season. Alexander and Dillon previously worked together for two seasons – winning two crown jewels: The 2017 Coca-Cola 600 and 2018 Daytona 500. He will look to get Dillon back to the playoffs after he missed the postseason for the first time in four years.
Jared C. Tilton | Getty Images
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Jerry Baxter
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 24 GMS Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 43 Richard Petty Motorsports Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Baxter will be reunited with Bubba Wallace who he worked with in the Truck ranks for two seasons, tallying five wins. Baxter has earned 16 national series wins but has been a Cup crew chief for 12 races. He will guide Wallace's third Cup season.
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 24 GMS Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 43 Richard Petty Motorsports Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Baxter will be reunited with Bubba Wallace who he worked with in the Truck ranks for two seasons, tallying five wins. Baxter has earned 16 national series wins but has been a Cup crew chief for 12 races. He will guide Wallace's third Cup season.
Jared C. Tilton | Getty Images
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Mike Bugarewicz
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 14 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 10 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: After four seasons atop the No. 14 pit box and three seasons with Clint Bowyer, "Buga" shifts over to work with Aric Almirola. AA is coming off two straight playoff seasons and should be in the mix to extend that streak. Bugarewicz has three Cup wins as a crew chief.
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 14 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 10 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: After four seasons atop the No. 14 pit box and three seasons with Clint Bowyer, "Buga" shifts over to work with Aric Almirola. AA is coming off two straight playoff seasons and should be in the mix to extend that streak. Bugarewicz has three Cup wins as a crew chief.
Jared C. Tilton | Getty Images
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Jeremy Bullins
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 12 Team Penske Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 2 Team Penske Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: After five Cup seasons and three wins with Ryan Blaney, Bullins will now be the crew chief for Brad Keselowski on the No. 2. Bullins and Blaney were coming off their best finish in the standings together -- seventh in 2019.
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 12 Team Penske Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 2 Team Penske Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: After five Cup seasons and three wins with Ryan Blaney, Bullins will now be the crew chief for Brad Keselowski on the No. 2. Bullins and Blaney were coming off their best finish in the standings together -- seventh in 2019.
Chris Graythen | Getty Images
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Randall Burnett
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 2 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 8 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Burnett will stay teamed with Tyler Reddick as he makes his move to the top series. The duo won six races and won the 2019 Xfinity Series championship. Burnett has some Cup crew chief experience from a two-year stint with AJ Allmendinger.
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 2 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 8 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Burnett will stay teamed with Tyler Reddick as he makes his move to the top series. The duo won six races and won the 2019 Xfinity Series championship. Burnett has some Cup crew chief experience from a two-year stint with AJ Allmendinger.
Jared C. Tilton | Getty Images
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Todd Gordon
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 22 Team Penske Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 12 Team Penske Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: After seven Cup seasons, 21 wins and a 2018 championship with Joey Logano, Gordon will now be the pit boss for Ryan Blaney. Gordon's chief task will be to get Blaney to perform as consistently as he got Logano to in recent years.
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 22 Team Penske Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 12 Team Penske Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: After seven Cup seasons, 21 wins and a 2018 championship with Joey Logano, Gordon will now be the pit boss for Ryan Blaney. Gordon's chief task will be to get Blaney to perform as consistently as he got Logano to in recent years.
Drew Hallowell | NASCAR via Getty Images
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Johnny Klausmeier
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 10 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 14 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Klausmeier worked with Aric Almirola the past two seasons and reached the playoffs in both years. Now, he will be paired with Clint Bowyer where getting to the playoffs is the expectation. Klausmeier has two wins atop the pit box (one with Almirola, one with Kurt Busch).
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 10 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 14 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Klausmeier worked with Aric Almirola the past two seasons and reached the playoffs in both years. Now, he will be paired with Clint Bowyer where getting to the playoffs is the expectation. Klausmeier has two wins atop the pit box (one with Almirola, one with Kurt Busch).
Jared C. Tilton | Getty Images
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Luke Lambert
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 8 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 17 Roush Fenway Racing Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: After eight seasons atop a Cup pit box for RCR, Lambert moves to work with Chris Buescher at Roush for his first season with the organization. Lambert scored one Cup win at RCR and guided Ryan Newman – a new teammate at Roush – to the Championship 4 in 2014.
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 8 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 17 Roush Fenway Racing Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: After eight seasons atop a Cup pit box for RCR, Lambert moves to work with Chris Buescher at Roush for his first season with the organization. Lambert scored one Cup win at RCR and guided Ryan Newman – a new teammate at Roush – to the Championship 4 in 2014.
Jared C. Tilton | Getty Images
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Brian Pattie
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 17 Roush Fenway Racing Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 47 JTG Daugherty Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Pattie will re-team with Ricky Stenhouse Jr. at their new organization after three seasons and two wins together at Roush. In 16 seasons as a Cup crew chief, Pattie has six victories and has guided a driver to a top-10 points finish three times.
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 17 Roush Fenway Racing Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 47 JTG Daugherty Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Pattie will re-team with Ricky Stenhouse Jr. at their new organization after three seasons and two wins together at Roush. In 16 seasons as a Cup crew chief, Pattie has six victories and has guided a driver to a top-10 points finish three times.
Brian Lawdermilk | Getty Images
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Jason Ratcliff
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 95 Leavine Family Racing Toyota in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Ratcliff will follow Christopher Bell in his move up as he will be the crew chief for the No. 95 team. Ratcliff and Bell have teamed for 15 wins over the past two Xfinity seasons. The veteran pit boss is no stranger to the Cup ranks, working with Matt Kenseth during his tenure at JGR. Mike Wheeler will shift over to be the team’s competition director.
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 95 Leavine Family Racing Toyota in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Ratcliff will follow Christopher Bell in his move up as he will be the crew chief for the No. 95 team. Ratcliff and Bell have teamed for 15 wins over the past two Xfinity seasons. The veteran pit boss is no stranger to the Cup ranks, working with Matt Kenseth during his tenure at JGR. Mike Wheeler will shift over to be the team’s competition director.
Jared C. Tilton | Getty Images
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Mike Shiplett
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 00 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 41 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Shiplett will move up with Cole Custer to be the rookie’s Cup crew chief after teaming with him for seven Xfinity wins in 2019. Shiplett has a wealth of experience atop the box – serving as the crew chief for 121 Cup races and 224 Xfinity races (with 24 wins).
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 00 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 41 Stewart-Haas Racing Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Shiplett will move up with Cole Custer to be the rookie’s Cup crew chief after teaming with him for seven Xfinity wins in 2019. Shiplett has a wealth of experience atop the box – serving as the crew chief for 121 Cup races and 224 Xfinity races (with 24 wins).
Joe Gibbs Racing
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James Small
Previous gig: Lead engineer for the No. 19 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota in NASCAR’s top series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 19 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Small has big shoes to fill replacing the departing Cole Pearn who teamed with Truex for 24 wins, a championship and four Championship 4 appearances in five years. Small filled in as Erik Jones' crew chief for two races in 2017. As part of Small’s move atop the box, Jeff Curtis is back in the Truex camp as the new lead engineer after a season at Chip Ganassi Racing.
Previous gig: Lead engineer for the No. 19 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota in NASCAR’s top series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 19 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Small has big shoes to fill replacing the departing Cole Pearn who teamed with Truex for 24 wins, a championship and four Championship 4 appearances in five years. Small filled in as Erik Jones' crew chief for two races in 2017. As part of Small’s move atop the box, Jeff Curtis is back in the Truex camp as the new lead engineer after a season at Chip Ganassi Racing.
Photo courtesy of Go Fas Racing
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Ryan Sparks
Previous gig: Race engineer for the No. 3 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 32 Go Fas Racing Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Sparks comes to Go Fas Racing to serve as Corey LaJoie's crew chief after a 13-year tenure at RCR. During that time, he was a race engineer for Austin Dillon's championship-winning Xfinity and Gander Trucks efforts in 2011 and 2013, respectively.
Previous gig: Race engineer for the No. 3 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 32 Go Fas Racing Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: Sparks comes to Go Fas Racing to serve as Corey LaJoie's crew chief after a 13-year tenure at RCR. During that time, he was a race engineer for Austin Dillon's championship-winning Xfinity and Gander Trucks efforts in 2011 and 2013, respectively.
Chris Graythen | Getty Images
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Paul Wolfe
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 2 Team Penske Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 22 Team Penske Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: After nine Cup seasons, 29 wins, a 2012 Cup championship and 2010 Xfinity title with Brad Keselowski, Wolfe will shift over to work with Joey Logano. Matching Logano's work with Gordon will be a tall order but Wolfe is one of the brightest strategists in the garage.
Previous gig: Crew chief for the No. 2 Team Penske Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
New gig: Crew chief for the No. 22 Team Penske Ford in NASCAR’s top series.
The scoop: After nine Cup seasons, 29 wins, a 2012 Cup championship and 2010 Xfinity title with Brad Keselowski, Wolfe will shift over to work with Joey Logano. Matching Logano's work with Gordon will be a tall order but Wolfe is one of the brightest strategists in the garage.
Photo courtesy of Chevrolet
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Chevrolet Camaro
What’s new: Chevrolet will switch to the Camaro ZL1 1LE in the sport’s top series in 2020, replacing the Camaro ZL1. The Camaro ZL1 1LE will make its competition debut next February during Daytona Speedweeks, which opens the 2020 NASCAR season. Chevrolet engineers have optimized aerodynamic performance by employing an array of tools, including computational fluid dynamics (CFD), simulation, and reduced-scale and full-scale wind-tunnel testing.
What’s new: Chevrolet will switch to the Camaro ZL1 1LE in the sport’s top series in 2020, replacing the Camaro ZL1. The Camaro ZL1 1LE will make its competition debut next February during Daytona Speedweeks, which opens the 2020 NASCAR season. Chevrolet engineers have optimized aerodynamic performance by employing an array of tools, including computational fluid dynamics (CFD), simulation, and reduced-scale and full-scale wind-tunnel testing.
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Go Fas Racing
The scoop: Go Fas Racing will have a technical alliance with Stewart-Haas Racing starting with the 2020 season. The organization will be provided with chassis, data and technical support from the alliance with the four-car organization of SHR.
The scoop: Go Fas Racing will have a technical alliance with Stewart-Haas Racing starting with the 2020 season. The organization will be provided with chassis, data and technical support from the alliance with the four-car organization of SHR.
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Brandon Brown
Previous ride: No. 86 Brandonbilt Motorsports Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New ride: No. 68 Brandonbilt Motorsports Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
The scoop: Brown is back in the Xfinity Series for a second straight year albeit with a number change, as he told Frontstretch. He earned his first top 10 in the series in 2019 en route to a 15th-place finish in the standings.
Previous ride: No. 86 Brandonbilt Motorsports Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New ride: No. 68 Brandonbilt Motorsports Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
The scoop: Brown is back in the Xfinity Series for a second straight year albeit with a number change, as he told Frontstretch. He earned his first top 10 in the series in 2019 en route to a 15th-place finish in the standings.
Brian Lawdermilk | Getty Images
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Harrison Burton
Previous ride: No. 18 Kyle Busch Motorsports Toyota in the NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
New ride: No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
The scoop: Burton is moving up the NASCAR ladder after a full-time season with KBM. The son of 21-time Cup winner Jeff Burton will take over the ride piloted by Christopher Bell for the past two seasons. He will contend for Sunoco Rookie honors and should be in the title mix as well.
Previous ride: No. 18 Kyle Busch Motorsports Toyota in the NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
New ride: No. 20 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
The scoop: Burton is moving up the NASCAR ladder after a full-time season with KBM. The son of 21-time Cup winner Jeff Burton will take over the ride piloted by Christopher Bell for the past two seasons. He will contend for Sunoco Rookie honors and should be in the title mix as well.
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Ross Chastain
Previous ride: No. 45 Niece Motorsports Chevrolet in the NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
New ride: No. 10 Kaulig Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
The scoop: The Melon Man will run for a Xfinity Series championship in a second car fielded by Kaulig Racing. Chastain won at Daytona in July with Kaulig in one of a handful of starts he made for the team. In 2019, Chastain competed for the Gander Trucks title – winning three races and finishing second in the standings.
Previous ride: No. 45 Niece Motorsports Chevrolet in the NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
New ride: No. 10 Kaulig Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
The scoop: The Melon Man will run for a Xfinity Series championship in a second car fielded by Kaulig Racing. Chastain won at Daytona in July with Kaulig in one of a handful of starts he made for the team. In 2019, Chastain competed for the Gander Trucks title – winning three races and finishing second in the standings.
Jared C. Tilton | Getty Images
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Joe Graf Jr.
Previous ride: Part time in the No. 21 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New ride: No. 08 SS Greenlight Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
The scoop: Graf will run a full schedule in the Xfinity ranks for team owner Bobby Dotter and be eligible for the Sunoco Rookie of the Year. He made three starts with RCR last year with a best finish of 14th in the fall at Richmond Raceway.
Previous ride: Part time in the No. 21 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New ride: No. 08 SS Greenlight Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
The scoop: Graf will run a full schedule in the Xfinity ranks for team owner Bobby Dotter and be eligible for the Sunoco Rookie of the Year. He made three starts with RCR last year with a best finish of 14th in the fall at Richmond Raceway.
Jared C. Tilton | Getty Images
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Daniel Hemric
Previous ride: No. 8 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
New ride: No. 8 JR Motorsports Chevrolet (part time) in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
The scoop: Hemric is out at RCR after one Cup season that saw him take him home Sunoco Rookie of the Year honors in 2019. In 2020, he will run the bulk of races – 21 – in the No. 8 Xfinity car at JRM with Jeb Burton (11 races) and Dale Earnhardt Jr. (1 race) also piloting the ride during the year.
Previous ride: No. 8 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet in NASCAR’s top series.
New ride: No. 8 JR Motorsports Chevrolet (part time) in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
The scoop: Hemric is out at RCR after one Cup season that saw him take him home Sunoco Rookie of the Year honors in 2019. In 2020, he will run the bulk of races – 21 – in the No. 8 Xfinity car at JRM with Jeb Burton (11 races) and Dale Earnhardt Jr. (1 race) also piloting the ride during the year.
Brian Lawdermilk | Getty Images
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Riley Herbst
Previous ride: Part-time rides in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series, K&N Pro Series East and ARCA Menards Series.
New ride: No. 18 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
The scoop: Herbst will be JGR’s third full-time entry in the 2020 Xfinity Series, joining Brandon Jones and Burton. Herbst has made 10 Xfinity Series starts over the past two years with a best finish of sixth and four top 10s. He will compete for Xfinity rookie honors.
Previous ride: Part-time rides in the NASCAR Xfinity Series, Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series, K&N Pro Series East and ARCA Menards Series.
New ride: No. 18 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
The scoop: Herbst will be JGR’s third full-time entry in the 2020 Xfinity Series, joining Brandon Jones and Burton. Herbst has made 10 Xfinity Series starts over the past two years with a best finish of sixth and four top 10s. He will compete for Xfinity rookie honors.
Photo courtesy of JD Motorsports
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Colby Howard
Previous ride: Part-time duty in NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series and ARCA Menards Series.
New ride: JD Motorsports with Gary Keller Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
The scoop: Howard made his national series debut in 2019 with two Truck Series starts. He will run the majority of the Xfinity Series schedule -- starting with the series fourth race of the year at Phoenix.
Previous ride: Part-time duty in NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series and ARCA Menards Series.
New ride: JD Motorsports with Gary Keller Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
The scoop: Howard made his national series debut in 2019 with two Truck Series starts. He will run the majority of the Xfinity Series schedule -- starting with the series fourth race of the year at Phoenix.
Brian Lawdermilk | Getty Images
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Jesse Little
Previous ride: Part time No. 97 JJL Motorsports Ford in the NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
New ride: JD Motorsports with Gary Keller Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
The scoop: Little has run a partial schedule in the Gander Truck ranks for the past five seasons with seven top 10s in limited runs. His 2020 Xfinity duty will be his first in the series as he runs for rookie honors with the JD Motorsports outfit.
Previous ride: Part time No. 97 JJL Motorsports Ford in the NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
New ride: JD Motorsports with Gary Keller Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
The scoop: Little has run a partial schedule in the Gander Truck ranks for the past five seasons with seven top 10s in limited runs. His 2020 Xfinity duty will be his first in the series as he runs for rookie honors with the JD Motorsports outfit.
Robert Laberge | Getty Images
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Josh Williams
Previous ride: No. 36 DGM Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New ride: No. 92 DGM Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
The scoop: Williams will shift numbers from 36 to 92 as he embarks on his second full season with DGM. The 2019 season saw him earn a career-best eighth-place finish at Talladega Superspeedway and finish 17th in the standings.
Previous ride: No. 36 DGM Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New ride: No. 92 DGM Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
The scoop: Williams will shift numbers from 36 to 92 as he embarks on his second full season with DGM. The 2019 season saw him earn a career-best eighth-place finish at Talladega Superspeedway and finish 17th in the standings.
Robert Laberge | Getty Images
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Martins Motorsports
New car: No. 44 Martins Motorsports Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
The scoop: Tommy Joe Martins will serve as the primary driver as the family-owned organization returns to NASCAR competition after a two-season hiatus. The team will compete full time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series in 2020. Martins has 57 Xfinity Series starts over the course of four seasons. Danny Johnson will be the crew chief.
New car: No. 44 Martins Motorsports Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
The scoop: Tommy Joe Martins will serve as the primary driver as the family-owned organization returns to NASCAR competition after a two-season hiatus. The team will compete full time in the NASCAR Xfinity Series in 2020. Martins has 57 Xfinity Series starts over the course of four seasons. Danny Johnson will be the crew chief.
Jonathan Ferrey | NASCAR via Getty Images
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Our Motorsports
New car: No. 02 Our Motorsports Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
The scoop: Andy Seuss, a two-time Whelen Southern Modified Tour champion, will manage the team and is expected to drive the ride throughout the season with an official driver lineup to come in January of 2020. Team owner Chris Our is growing his organization from the Whelen Modified and ARCA circuits to a NASCAR national series entry.
New car: No. 02 Our Motorsports Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
The scoop: Andy Seuss, a two-time Whelen Southern Modified Tour champion, will manage the team and is expected to drive the ride throughout the season with an official driver lineup to come in January of 2020. Team owner Chris Our is growing his organization from the Whelen Modified and ARCA circuits to a NASCAR national series entry.
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Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series
The scoop: The Truck Series is being rebranded for the second straight offseason as it will now be known as the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series starting in the 2020 season.
The scoop: The Truck Series is being rebranded for the second straight offseason as it will now be known as the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series starting in the 2020 season.
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Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series playoff format
The scoop: The Gander Trucks playoffs are expanding to 10 drivers. There will be a three-race Round of 10, which at the conclusion of that round will see two drivers eliminated. There will then be a three-race Round of 8 with four drivers eliminated at the conclusion of that round. The Championship 4 will compete in Phoenix to determine the 2020 Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series Champion.
The scoop: The Gander Trucks playoffs are expanding to 10 drivers. There will be a three-race Round of 10, which at the conclusion of that round will see two drivers eliminated. There will then be a three-race Round of 8 with four drivers eliminated at the conclusion of that round. The Championship 4 will compete in Phoenix to determine the 2020 Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series Champion.
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DGR-Crosley
The scoop: DGR-Crosley is making the move from fielding Toyotas in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series to fielding Fords for the 2020 season. In addition to Trucks, the David Gilliland-driver development program will also field late models and the ARCA Menards Series.
The scoop: DGR-Crosley is making the move from fielding Toyotas in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series to fielding Fords for the 2020 season. In addition to Trucks, the David Gilliland-driver development program will also field late models and the ARCA Menards Series.
Matt Sullivan | Getty Images
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Halmar Friesen Racing
The scoop: Stewart Friesen will be fielding Toyotas in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series in 2020 as the organization shifts from Chevrolet. The team will have the support of Toyota Racing Development and trucks purchased through Kyle Busch Motorsports. Friesen reached the Championship 4 in 2019 and should be among the favorites to get back there in 2020.
The scoop: Stewart Friesen will be fielding Toyotas in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series in 2020 as the organization shifts from Chevrolet. The team will have the support of Toyota Racing Development and trucks purchased through Kyle Busch Motorsports. Friesen reached the Championship 4 in 2019 and should be among the favorites to get back there in 2020.
Jonathan Ferrey | Getty Images
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Tyler Ankrum
Previous ride: No. 17 DGR-Crosley Racing Toyota in the NASCAR RV & Gander Outdoors Truck Series.
New ride: No. 26 GMS Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
The scoop: Fresh off a run to the Round of 6 in the Gander Trucks Playoffs and his first Truck win at Kentucky, Ankrum is moving over to GMS Racing. He will be part of a full-time lineup that includes 2018 champion Brett Moffitt, Sheldon Creed and Zane Smith.
Previous ride: No. 17 DGR-Crosley Racing Toyota in the NASCAR RV & Gander Outdoors Truck Series.
New ride: No. 26 GMS Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
The scoop: Fresh off a run to the Round of 6 in the Gander Trucks Playoffs and his first Truck win at Kentucky, Ankrum is moving over to GMS Racing. He will be part of a full-time lineup that includes 2018 champion Brett Moffitt, Sheldon Creed and Zane Smith.
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Christian Eckes
Previous ride: No. 15 Venturini Motorsports Toyota in the ARCA Menards Series.
New ride: No. 18 Kyle Busch Motorsports Toyota in the NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
The scoop: The 2019 ARCA Menard Series champion will run as a rookie in the Gander Trucks series for KBM with Rudy Fugle atop the pit box. Eckes has made 12 starts for KBM over the past two seasons with three top fives and seven top 10s. Expect him to be a title contender in '20.
Previous ride: No. 15 Venturini Motorsports Toyota in the ARCA Menards Series.
New ride: No. 18 Kyle Busch Motorsports Toyota in the NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
The scoop: The 2019 ARCA Menard Series champion will run as a rookie in the Gander Trucks series for KBM with Rudy Fugle atop the pit box. Eckes has made 12 starts for KBM over the past two seasons with three top fives and seven top 10s. Expect him to be a title contender in '20.
Matt Sullivan | Getty Images
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Todd Gilliland
Previous ride: No. 4 Kyle Busch Motorsports Toyota in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
New ride: No. 38 Front Row Motorsports Ford in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
The scoop: Front Row Motorsports is expanding into the Truck ranks with an alliance with DGR-Crosley and Gilliland behind the wheel. The 19-year-old won at Martinsville Speedway last fall and has 12 top fives and 26 top 10s in 48 series starts. He should be in the mix for the playoff spot. Jon Leonard will serve as the team’s crew chief.
Previous ride: No. 4 Kyle Busch Motorsports Toyota in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
New ride: No. 38 Front Row Motorsports Ford in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
The scoop: Front Row Motorsports is expanding into the Truck ranks with an alliance with DGR-Crosley and Gilliland behind the wheel. The 19-year-old won at Martinsville Speedway last fall and has 12 top fives and 26 top 10s in 48 series starts. He should be in the mix for the playoff spot. Jon Leonard will serve as the team’s crew chief.
Jared C. Tilton | Getty Images
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Tanner Gray
Previous ride: No. 15 DGR-Crosley Toyota in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East.
New ride: No. 15 DGR-Crosley Ford in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
The scoop: The 2018 NHRA Pro Stock Champion continues his transition with a full season ride competing for rookie honors with DGR-Crosley. Gray ran in the K&N East ranks for DGR-Crosley – winning a race and finishing third in the standings. He also made three Gander Trucks starts for the organization.
Previous ride: No. 15 DGR-Crosley Toyota in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series East.
New ride: No. 15 DGR-Crosley Ford in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
The scoop: The 2018 NHRA Pro Stock Champion continues his transition with a full season ride competing for rookie honors with DGR-Crosley. Gray ran in the K&N East ranks for DGR-Crosley – winning a race and finishing third in the standings. He also made three Gander Trucks starts for the organization.
Jonathan Ferrey | Getty Images
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Derek Kraus
Previous ride: No. 16 Bill McAnally Racing Toyota in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series West.
New ride: No. 19 McAnally-Hilgemann Racing Toyota in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
The scoop: The 2019 K&N West champ is moving up to the Truck ranks as McAnally-Hilgemann Racing is forming an alliance with Hattori Racing Enterprises. The 18-year-old has two top 10s in five series starts. Kraus will be in the mix for the Sunoco Rookie of the Year Award.
Previous ride: No. 16 Bill McAnally Racing Toyota in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series West.
New ride: No. 19 McAnally-Hilgemann Racing Toyota in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
The scoop: The 2019 K&N West champ is moving up to the Truck ranks as McAnally-Hilgemann Racing is forming an alliance with Hattori Racing Enterprises. The 18-year-old has two top 10s in five series starts. Kraus will be in the mix for the Sunoco Rookie of the Year Award.
Jared C. Tilton | Getty Images
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Raphael Lessard
Previous ride: Part-time in several NASCAR Gander Outdoors Truck Series rides.
New ride: No. 4 Kyle Busch Motorsports Toyota in the NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
The scoop: The Canadian product will run a full season for KBM and compete for rookie honors. Lessard made five starts in 2019 – earning two top 10s with a best finish of ninth at Iowa in June. The 18-year-old has been part of KBM’s Super Late Model program.
Previous ride: Part-time in several NASCAR Gander Outdoors Truck Series rides.
New ride: No. 4 Kyle Busch Motorsports Toyota in the NASCAR Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
The scoop: The Canadian product will run a full season for KBM and compete for rookie honors. Lessard made five starts in 2019 – earning two top 10s with a best finish of ninth at Iowa in June. The 18-year-old has been part of KBM’s Super Late Model program.
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Ty Majeski
Previous ride: Assorted rides in racing (ARCA Menards Series, Truck Series.)
New ride: No. 45 Niece Motorsports Chevrolet in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
The scoop: Majeski takes over the ride that Ross Chastain piloted to the Championship 4 in 2019. He made one start for the organization in 2019 – an 11th-place finish at ISM Raceway. He won several ARCA ranks in ’19 and should be in the mix to make the playoffs in the Truck ranks.
Previous ride: Assorted rides in racing (ARCA Menards Series, Truck Series.)
New ride: No. 45 Niece Motorsports Chevrolet in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
The scoop: Majeski takes over the ride that Ross Chastain piloted to the Championship 4 in 2019. He made one start for the organization in 2019 – an 11th-place finish at ISM Raceway. He won several ARCA ranks in ’19 and should be in the mix to make the playoffs in the Truck ranks.
Jonathan Ferrey | Getty Images
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Brett Moffitt
Previous ride: No. 24 GMS Racing Chevrolet in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
New ride: No. 23 GMS Racing Chevrolet in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
The scoop: The only change here is the number for Moffitt. The 2018 champion is back at GMS Racing and will look to build off his recent success in the series – 10 wins, a title and two straight Championship 4 appearances.
Previous ride: No. 24 GMS Racing Chevrolet in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
New ride: No. 23 GMS Racing Chevrolet in the Gander RV & Outdoors Truck Series.
The scoop: The only change here is the number for Moffitt. The 2018 champion is back at GMS Racing and will look to build off his recent success in the series – 10 wins, a title and two straight Championship 4 appearances.
Chris Graythen | Getty Images
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Zane Smith
Previous ride: Part time in the No. 8 JR Motorsports Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New ride: No. 21 GMS Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR RV & Gander Outdoors Truck Series.
The scoop: Smith joins a full-time lineup of four trucks at GMS as he embarks on his first full time NASCAR national series season in 2020. Kevin "Bono" Manion will serve as the crew chief. The 20-year-old made 10 Xfinity starts for JRM in 2019 with two top fives and seven top 10s.
Previous ride: Part time in the No. 8 JR Motorsports Chevrolet in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
New ride: No. 21 GMS Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR RV & Gander Outdoors Truck Series.
The scoop: Smith joins a full-time lineup of four trucks at GMS as he embarks on his first full time NASCAR national series season in 2020. Kevin "Bono" Manion will serve as the crew chief. The 20-year-old made 10 Xfinity starts for JRM in 2019 with two top fives and seven top 10s.
