As of last season, Josh Berry was announced as the replacement driver for the most esteemed #4 car. Berry’s start to the 2024 season has, however, not been at all impressive. The No. 4 driver is now ranked in the 30th position in the Cup series standings. Berry is presently 16 points behind his leading teammate, Chase Briscoe, positioned at rank 20.

However, adding to his woes, Josh Berry recently suffered another setback while showcasing his qualifying stint at the Phoenix Raceway. He narrowly saved himself from crashing into the outside wall of the Phoenix Track.

The Cause of Josh Berry’s Qualifying Mishap

After undergoing a qualifying setback at the Phoenix Speedway, Josh Berry provided insights while having a conversation with NASCAR Fox reporter Bob Pockrass. He reflected on his failed qualifying attempt at the Phoenix Raceway, stating, “Now I think I just barely got the apron, honestly, felt like I was on a pretty good lap.” Despite feeling confident in his car’s performance during practice, the mishap necessitated repairs. 

However, Josh Berry remained optimistic, asserting, “These guys are great at what they do, so they’ll get it fixed up, obviously.” He expressed determination to move forward and make the best of the race ahead, emphasizing, “We got a long race tomorrow we just got a familiar lap and get better.” 

Bob Pockrass further inquired about Berry’s use of the apron, prompting Berry to admit, “I probably just got a little bit too much of it, but I guess it’s just part of learning.” Despite the setback, Berry remained focused on maximizing his performance in the upcoming race.

Can #14 be the answer to Stewart-Haas Racing’s missing Phoenix expertise?

The upcoming Shriners Children’s 500 race is Chase Briscoe’s 7th Race at the Phoenix Raceway. The 1-mile track has witnessed a brilliant performance from former SHR driver Kevin Harvick in the past. Harvick’s Cup Series career ended with a seventh-place result in Phoenix, where he holds the record for nine triumphs. With the qualifying rounds over, Chase Briscoe now sits in 8th position in the lineup for the race ahead. 

Back in 2022, Briscoe celebrated his debut win at the same oval. He started the race in sixth place. Before gaining victory at the track, he showcased a commendable stint with his race craft by leading a total of 101 laps in the race. He also finished stages 1 and 2 in the 2nd and 8th positions, respectively.

Apart from his win, Briscoe has also provided the team with P4 and P7 finish results on the same track as well. So now that the Shriners Children’s 500 race looms, Tony Stewart and his team have high hopes for Chase’s performance.

Read More: Is Chase Briscoe Tony Stewart’s answer to former ace Kevin Harvick’s missing Phoenix expertise?

As fans eagerly await the Shriners Children’s 500 race, Stewart-Haas Racing faces high expectations for a strong performance. Despite setbacks, including Josh Berry’s recent qualifying mishap, the team’s legacy at the Phoenix Raceway, coupled with Chase Briscoe’s promising track record, instills confidence.