Haas-ta la vista, NASCAR!

Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR) will close its NASCAR operations at the end of the 2024 season, concluding over two decades of competitive success. 

Co-founded by Gene Haas, founder of the Haas F1 Team, and Tony Stewart, SHR leaves behind a remarkable legacy with two NASCAR Cup Series championships and 69 race wins. This decision signals deeper commercial challenges and shifts within the motorsport industry, bringing into question their position in F1. 
 
The closure comes amid a series of setbacks. The retirements of star drivers Kevin Harvick and Aric Almirola, coupled with the loss of major sponsors such as Anheuser-Busch, Smithfield, and Hunt Brothers Pizza, have eroded the financial foundation of SHR. This underscores a broader issue in NASCAR where securing and retaining sponsorships has become increasingly challenging. 
 
Tony Stewart will remain active in the racing world through his NHRA team, while Gene Haas focuses on his Formula 1 operations. Despite the NASCAR exit, Haas has reiterated his commitment to the Haas F1 Team, denying any intentions to sell. This comes at a time when the commercial viability and stability of F1 teams are under scrutiny, especially with Andretti-Cadillac's bid to join the grid.
 
The sale of SHR's relatively modest NASCAR shop serves as a critical commentary on the commercial pressures and strategic pivots within the motorsport industry. As SHR cashes in on its charters, the implications for NASCAR’s competitive and commercial future remain profound.