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Noah Gragson Suspended After Distasteful Online Reaction; Josh Berry to Replace in Michigan

Published 08/06/2023, 5:42 AM EDT

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In a shocking turn of events, Legacy Motor Club has made a bold statement by suspending NASCAR Cup Series driver Noah Gragson for actions deemed contrary to the team’s values. In a press release that reverberated through the racing world, Legacy Motor Club announced the indefinite suspension of Gragson, citing a violation of the NASCAR Rule Book’s member conduct section.

This decision left a void in the #42 Legacy MC Chevrolet, but in that void emerged a new hero – Josh Berry. The move was met with resounding support from NASCAR officials, who fully endorsed the team’s decision to take a stand against unacceptable behavior.

Josh Berry steps up in the #42 Legacy MC Chevrolet

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The suspension of Noah Gragson surprised many, with Legacy Motor Club making the tough decision to sideline their star driver due to his actions on social media. As Noah Gragson stepped away from the spotlight, Josh Berry again found himself thrust into the center of attention.

Jordan Bianchi, Motorsports reporter for The Athletic, shared NASCAR’s statement in his recent Tweet. “We have made the decision to suspend Noah Gragson effective immediately regarding his actions that do not represent the values of our team. Josh Berry will drive the No. 42 entry for this weekend’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Michigan,” NASCAR stated.

The announcement sent shockwaves through the racing community, while Berry has proven to be the ultimate ‘super sub’ this season, making a name for himself by filling in for top drivers in their times of need. He previously filled in for Hendrick Motorsports in eight races, five of which were for the #9 Chevrolet of Chase Elliott and three for the #48 Chevy of Alex Bowman due to the latter’s injuries.

Despite his upcoming transition to Stewart-Haas Racing’s #4 team next year, Berry is still seeking his first Xfinity Series win of the season.

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But what are Josh Berry’s thoughts on this new opportunity at his doorstep?

Embracing the challenge of replacing Noah Gragson 

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Berry’s pole position for Saturday’s Cabo Wabo 250 at the 2-mile Michigan track adds a layer of intrigue to his weekend as he prepares to substitute for Gragson in the #42 Legacy MC Chevrolet for the Cup Series race on Sunday. The pressure is on for the 32-year-old driver to keep the car in one piece, while showcasing his talent. 

“I found out like, it feels like an hour ago that I was even doing this,” Berry revealed in a candid interview with NBC Sports. “The biggest goal is to keep the car in one piece. I know Luke (Lambert, No. 42 crew chief) and a lot of these guys really well, so after our Xfinity race tonight, we’ll talk some more. Then just tomorrow, just try to run all the laps and learn all we can for next year and get the best finish we can.”

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Remarkably, Berry’s journey doesn’t end there. Next year, he is set to join Stewart-Haas Racing‘s #4 team in the Cup Series, making him one of the most sought-after drivers in the circuit. With the determination to secure his first Xfinity Series win of the season for JR Motorsports, Berry’s drive and dedication are undeniable.

As Berry prepares to prove his mettle in the #42 Chevrolet this weekend, fans eagerly await his performance. Will he continue to impress as he has all season long? And will he secure a victory to solidify his status as the next NASCAR sensation? Tell us in the comments!

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Written by:

Brahmi Dhaytadak

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Brahmi Dhaytadak is a NASCAR Writer at EssentiallySports. She combines her love for F1, Tennis, and NASCAR into electrifying prose that sets the hearts of her readers racing. Whether it was the finesse of Charles Leclerc's maneuvers around Monaco or the artistry of Roger Federer's racket, everything inspired Brahmi to venture into the field of sports journalism.
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Edited by:

Aayush Kapoor