The NASCAR off-season is seeing some movements for drivers within the teams. While team swapping is more prevalent within the Xfinity Series, Cup Series teams have preferred to transition the younger stars of the future generation to the top flight. Joe Gibbs Racing has mostly preferred experience over many things. However, in recent news, team owner Joe Gibbs has made a revelation about Aric Almirola that Stewart-Haas Racing owner Tony Stewart wouldn’t like.

SHR’s former No. 10 driver, Aric Almirola’s future, was up in the air following his departure from SHR. But not anymore. Having been the former coach of the Washington Commanders, Joe Gibbs visited the stadium for their latest NFL match against the Miami Dolphins. However, he was not alone. Christopher Bell and Aric Almirola gave him company. In a surprising turn of events, Gibbs introduced Aric as one of JGR’s drivers, which seems like a revelation too early.

Joe Gibbs’ tongue slip reveals JGR’s recruit

Joe Gibbs Racing has had its hands full in the Cup Series. All four of their drivers had a good season in 2023, with Ty Gibbs making a decent transition from the Xfinity Series. However, that is also a problem with Aric Almirola‘s arrival. With all four spots locked in, it is hard to think that any of the drivers from the current roster will be dropped unless an unexpected change happens.

Speaking to one of his colleagues, Joe Gibbs is seen introducing Almirola by saying, “Aric’s driving for us now.” Christopher Bell and a few other drivers also accompanied Gibbs to the NFL stadium, which was jam-packed with fans.

The big question here is, what role Aric Almirola would be assigned to? An Xfinity Series car makes sense, with the former No. 10 Mustang driver having considered retirement in the past two seasons. A part-time driver role also sounds perfect for Almirola to transition slowly into another chapter of life.

These words from Gibbs will particularly hurt Tony Stewart. It is bad enough that he has not found Almirola’s replacement yet. But now, it seems his former driver will possibly be a direct competitor to SHR in the Xfinity series.

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Aric Almirola had been leaning towards leaving the sport since the end of 2022, but a peculiar demand from SHR and his primary sponsor, Smithfield Foods, made him stay. The confirmation of Almirola’s allegiance to JGR ends Tony’s hopes of a return for the 39-year-old driver.

Who could be a potential replacement for Aric Almirola?

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One of the obvious options for Stewart-Haas Racing was the 2023 Xfinity champ, Cole Custer. Custer already has three seasons of experience in Cup Series racing, backed up by his recent championship win. However, with the news of his extension in the #00 Mustang coming earlier, his chances of returning to the Cup are ruled out.

On exploring the options, one would come across some capable and popular names. Noah Gragson is touted as the frontrunner for the No. 10. Following his fall from grace earlier this year, the 25-year-old has had difficulty finding suitors. The former Legacy Motor Cub driver has been putting in the hard work in the off-season and is looking forward to returning to the Cup Series.

However, he also brings his share of controversy along. With SHR announcing that it wants to remain a four-car team in 2024, Gragson’s move makes sense. The youngster only got a little time to showcase his potential in the top flight before an insensitive action rocked his boat.

The team already has Josh Berry, Chase Briscoe, and Ryan Preece lined up. With SHR’s unwillingness to make a move for a driver who is talented but inexperienced, there are few options as of now. Tony Stewart could also explore the free agent market and find bargain deals that pay off handsomely later in 2024. The signs have pointed towards a Noah Gragson return to the Cup Series. But it is up to Tony Stewart to decide, and his decision will be communicated to the fandom in due time.

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