Stewart-Haas Racing Undercuts Report Of Kurt Busch Leaving Team

Stewart-Haas Racing today tweeted that while it does not "comment on contract status," it expects Kurt Busch to return as driver of the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series No. 41 Ford in '18, appearing to undercut an earlier report (TWITTER.com, 8/1). Earlier today, MOTORSPORT.com reported SHR had "informed Busch the organization will not pick up the option" on the driver and that the "expectation is that Busch will not drive" for the team in '18 (MOTORSPORT.com, 8/1).

Monster's deal with SHR is up for renewal after this year and is being negotiated. If Monster renews with SHR but changes its terms, the team may feel it has to do same with Busch, whose contract also ends after this season, underlining why it would not pick up the option on his old deal. SHR VP/Sales & Marketing Mike Verlander said this morning prior to the reports coming out, “We are very confident that we’re going to continue the relationship with Monster and (that) Kurt’s going to drive the 41 car” (Adam Stern, Staff Writer).