Stewart Haas Racing have announced that they will be switching over to Ford as of the 2017 NASCAR season.
The move has been one of the better kept secrets within the sport as there were no prior leaks of the switch before SHR announced a press release earlier today.
All of the cars within the SHR stable will have Ford Performance engines and chassis as the team look to progress and develop themselves with the sport.
The Reason for The Switch
Outgoing team owner and current driver of the #14, Tony Stewart, said in a team statement; "I am proud of our association with Chevrolets as they helped build our organization into the team it is today.
Stewart continued; "This new partnership with Ford allows us to strengthen our position in the sport and ensure the long-term stability and success for everyone who is part of Stewart Haas Racing."
The move has led to people speculating about whether the move is for financial reasons as SHR are currently in partnership with Hendrick Motorsports and a move away would only have come about if team owner Gene Haas and others believed they would be better off elsewhere.
NASCAR made a statement shortly after the announcement; "Stewart Haas Racing has been a top-tier team in our sport for many years, and we wish them well in their future endeavors with Ford Performance.
NASCAR statement continues to say; "Our sport is rooted in healthy competition and NASCAR is fortunate to have three strong auto manufacturer partners all committed to the common goals of winning and growing the sport. We know that SHR and Chevrolet will work together as hard as ever this season to win races and pursue their third Sprint Cup championship together."
Global director for Ford Performance, Dave Pericak, said of the move: "We believe with the addition of Stewart Haas Racing in 2017 will give our program major boost in terms of being in contention for both drivers' and manufacturers' championships every year.
A Strong Lineup
Stewart-Haas will join a Ford lineup for 2017 that includes Team Penske, Roush Fenway Racing, Wood Brothers Racing, Richard Petty Motorsports and Front Row Motorsports.
As for the current 2016 season SHR will continue its partnership with Chevrolet until the conclusion of the season at Homestead Miami Speedway, where both the team and manufacturer will be hoping to lift the Sprint Cup trophy.
Stay tuned to VAVEL USA for more information on the move and all your NASCAR news.