Chris Beuscher to Replace Ricky Stenhouse, Jr at Roush Fenway in 2020

Getty Images

CONCORD, NC – RIS – Chris Beuscher is going back to Roush Fenway Racing in the No. 17 Ford Mustang in the NASCAR Cup Series for 2020.  Apparently, former driver Ricky Stenhouse, Jr, was taken by surprise with the news.

While team contracts are private, contracts do include team options, meaning the team has the option to pick up the terms of the deal for a particular year or years, and performance clauses that, if not met, can led to termination or restructuring of the deal, according to Dustin Long of NBC Sports.

Missing the playoffs each of the last two seasons didn’t help Stenhouse. And with new teammate Ryan Newman grinding his way to a playoff spot – and possibly a spot in the second round – it was obvious that Roush Fenway Racing officials felt they could do better.

“We are certainly excited to have Chris back in the fold at Roush Fenway Racing,” team owner Jack Roush said in a statement. “He has a long history with our organization and we’ve always been a big fan of Chris and his racing style. We have watched his progress with great interest over the last couple of seasons and we are looking forward to having him in the No. 17 as we continue to grow our program next season.”

“We can’t say enough about Ricky and his contributions to Roush Fenway Racing,” Roush said. “We’re proud to have been a part of Ricky’s development from ARCA to Xfinity and ultimately the (Monster Energy NASCAR) Cup Series. He has served as a great representative to our partners, while helping to accumulate numerous accolades, wins and multiple championships on the racetrack. We wish him well as he enters the next chapter of his career.”

Stenhouse now searches for a new ride