Kurt Busch and Monster Energy are close to renewals with Chip Ganassi Racing that will see them return to the No. 1 Chevy in the NASCAR Cup Series in ’20, according to sources. Both Busch and Monster joined CGR this season after a multiyear stint at Stewart-Haas Racing, though both signed on for just one guaranteed year. There had been speculation that the 41-year-old Busch could retire after '19, but he had a strong debut season for CGR by making the playoffs, winning a race and running up front most weeks. As part of its renewal, sources said that Monster has been looking at doubling down on its paint scheme presence, which would be a helpful revenue win for the team. Monster’s spend this year was around $5M, so this would likely take it closer to the $10M range. Monster has been in talks with NASCAR about a second-tier slot in its new sponsorship model for next year, which could save it money from the $20M it has been spending as the sole series entitlement partner from ’17-19. Monster and NASCAR have yet to announce what their relationship will look like next year. CGR has yet to make a formal announcement about Busch’s and Monster’s future, but team Owner Chip Ganassi has told media in recent weeks that he expects Busch back next year.
