Stewart-Haas Racing has had a very busy day, and one announcement has set the stage for several more big ones coming down soon. Here's what's gone on, based on press releases and various tweets (below) from media source.
Sponsorship news
The Smithfield deal is complete
That announcement came via press release, so the long-rumored marriage with Smithfield Foods was consummated. Strangely, the release never divulged whether it was a single or multi-year deal.
Win some, lose some: Aspen Dental likely out
This isn't much of a surprise. Ever since Danica Patrick announced she wouldn't be back with Stewart-Haas, speculation mounted that Aspen Dental wouldn't return to the team. Adam Stern of the Sports Business Journal, in a tweet, said Aspen is likely out.
.@AspenDental is not expected to return to @StewartHaasRcng in '18. https://t.co/Us9pAb14cy
— Adam Stern (@A_S12) November 8, 2017
The Drivers
Aric Almirola is officially on board
That's been rumored for months. This is where relationships are important in any walk of life. Almirola has had a relationship with Tony Stewart since 2004, and Smithfield sponsored Almirola at Richard Petty Motorsports before that relationship ended. These are among the easiest tea leaves to read this season
What's up with the No. 41?
It would be a stunner if Kurt Busch isn't back in that seat. Busch wants it. Stewart wants it. And Stewart said an announcement, as per ESPN, is "fairly close." Adam Stern of the Sports Business Journal (below) notes the holdup may be related to Monster Energy's renewal.
What about Clint Bowyer?
It seems the No. 14 needs some sponsorship love.
With the No. 10 filled and @MonsterEnergy's renewal with the No. 41 -- potentially under different terms -- likely locked up as the team tries to solidify a driver, @StewartHaasRcng will turn its sales attention back to trying to find a major sponsor for @ClintBowyer's No. 14.
— Adam Stern (@A_S12) November 8, 2017
As busy as it's been today, Stewart-Haas still has more to do,