Martin Truex Jr. Replacement Revealed After Accidental Slip Up
In an unexpected twist during a routine media session, current Joe Gibbs Racing driver Christopher Bell may have inadvertently announced Chase Briscoe as the successor to Martin Truex Jr. in the No. 19 Toyota. The slip up occurred while Bell discussed the evolving team dynamics at Joe Gibbs Racing following an inquiry about his role after Truex Jr.’s forthcoming retirement.
The revelation emerged while Bell elaborated on the leadership within his team. Mid-discussion, he let slip:
“Whenever Chase [Briscoe] comes into the car,” seemingly confirming rumors of Briscoe’s transition to Joe Gibbs Racing. Bell quickly realized his mistake, adding, “I don’t even know what to say.”
Martin Truex Jr., a leading NASCAR competitor, recently announced his retirement from full-time racing at the conclusion of this season. This decision has significant ramifications for his team, as it not only opens a highly coveted seat but also shifts the strategic focus and dynamic of Joe Gibbs Racing.
Christopher Bell
Christopher Bell, driver of the #20 Mobil 1 Toyota, looks on during practice for the NASCAR Xfinity Series SciAps 200 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway on June 21, 2024 in Loudon, New Hampshire. Bell was… More JONATHAN BACHMAN/GETTY IMAGES
“I mean, it’s as simple as just not having a crazy schedule where, you know, you’re 40 weekends at a racetrack,” Truex told the press at Iowa Speedway. “Everyone in my family, who’s ever gotten married, I’ve missed their wedding. You know what I mean? … You don’t have a life. You’re married to racing, that’s all you do. Monday until Sunday, that’s all you do.”
“I was leaning that way most of the season,” Truex admitted. “I was leaning that direction, but I wasn’t totally sure. So I just took a while to think about it all. It’s a big decision. It affects not just me, it affects a lot of people.”
Chase Briscoe, currently behind the wheel of the No. 14 Ford Mustang for Stewart-Haas Racing, has demonstrated formidable skill on the track, claiming his inaugural Cup Series victory at the 2022 Ruoff Mortgage 500. With 26 top-10 finishes to his name, his move to Joe Gibbs Racing to drive the No. 19 Toyota seems not only plausible but logical, especially amid uncertainty surrounding Stewart-Haas Racing’s future in NASCAR.
Should Briscoe join Joe Gibbs Racing, he would be part of a robust lineup including Christopher Bell, Ty Gibbs, and Denny Hamlin. This new composition could foster a shift in team leadership roles and dynamics. Bell’s statement post-reveal further hints at this evolving structure:
“Whenever we have a new driver into the 19 car, whoever that is, their experience level will dictate how much input they have on the team.”
When asked about whether his leadership role at Joe Gibbs Racing will change with Martin Truex, Jr. retiring at season’s end, @CBellRacing slips up, saying “whenever Chase comes into the car.”
Chase refers to Chase Briscoe, who is expected to take over the No. 19 in 2025. pic.twitter.com/xDH8oTo8UQ
— Joseph Srigley (@joe_srigley) June 21, 2024
The addition of Briscoe would undoubtedly inject fresh energy into Joe Gibbs Racing, potentially elevating the team’s overall performance.
The transition from Truex Jr. to possibly Briscoe represents more than just a change of drivers; it marks a pivotal moment in Joe Gibbs Racing’s history, warranting close observation as the next racing season approaches.
