Speaking to SiriusXM NASCAR Radio about Matt DiBenedetto, Roger Penske made it clear that the driver was only offered “one more season” at Wood Brothers Racing.
The idea was for the driver to “build his brand” with his year at Wood Brothers Racing and that the team would move on from him. Initially too, that was the idea of the team, to give one year to “build his brand” and then bring in Austin Cindric from the Xfinity Series for the No. 21 ride in the Cup Series.
However, Brad Keselowski’s move to Roush Fenway Racing created a change in the plans. Cindric will now move to Keselowski’s No. 2 car and Harrison Burton will take the DiBenedetto’s current seat. Whether Burton or Cindric, DiBenedetto was supposed to lose his seat and hit the free agency after the 2021 season.
SRX Racing Hints at North Wilkesboro Speedway appearance in 2022
At 29 years of age and a lot of Cup Series experience, DiBenedetto still has things to offer in his locker in the Series. Last season, he made the NASCAR Playoffs for the first time in his career.
He currently sits 17th in the Cup Series standings with only two top-5 finishes to show for this season. A strong showing in the remaining races can help him secure a good ride for the 2022 season.
Matty D has no chance given the current strategy of the top Cup teams. Neither does any other smaller team driver. All new Cup drivers come from the manufacturers development program. They may have ZERO wins in the lower divisions, but they are progressing through the development ranks. Matty D deserves a good ride. Ryan Preece deserves a good ride. Corey LaJoie deserves a good ride. None of them will get one. Corporate NASCAR has taken over. The fans lose again.
I just think nascar is starting to be boring. All the good nascar drivers are retired all these young guys coming over to cup race is taking rides from the rest of the. Veteran driver’s. Which you will lose people who watch nascar and who attend it.
Just my opinion.