Is Tony Stewart Responsible for Rick Hendrick's Bitter Snub at Josh Berry Amid Chase Elliott Reprehension?

The HMS driver, Chase Elliott, will miss the race at World Wide Technology Raceway after receiving a one-race suspension. On the other hand, Spire Motorsports driver, Corey Lajoie is all set to replace him.

Interestingly, HMS did not replace Elliott, with Josh Berry, who had some great results as a replacement driver for HMS earlier in the season. So, why did the HMS choose Lajoie over Berry? Did Tony Stewart play a part?

Josh Berry had a great run for HMS

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After Elliott and Alex Bowman got injured earlier this season, Berry got the opportunity to represent HMS in the Cup Series. In 8 races, he had 3 top-10 finishes; his best result came at Richmond Raceway, where he finished 2nd. He also qualified for the zero-point race at North Wilkesboro after winning the All-Star Open.

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Why did HMS choose Lajoie over Berry?

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Firstly, Berry is a full-time driver at Xfinity Series for JR Motorsports. He would have missed the Xfinity race in Portland if he competed in the Cup Series race in Illinois. Also, Berry has the possibility of winning the Xfinity Series this season and JR Motorsports did not want to jeopardize that. On the other hand, HMS has a very good relationship with Spire Motorsports, which is why there are happy to help the HMS team.

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Is there a bigger picture regarding Berry’s snub?

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Meanwhile, there could be a bigger picture, as Josh Berry is rumored to be joining the Stewart-Haas Racing team after Kevin Harvick’s retirement. It’s certainly a big possibility, as Tony Stewart’s team possibly did not want to help out a rival’s team in the Cup Series this year. Clint Bowyer also hinted at Berry joining Stewart’s team next year.

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Is Tony Stewart Responsible for Rick Hendrick's Bitter Snub at Josh Berry Amid Chase Elliott Reprehension?

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Josh Berry had a great run for HMS

Why did HMS choose Lajoie over Berry?

Subscribe to our 'NASCAR' NEWSLETTER now!

Is there a bigger picture regarding Berry’s snub?

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