Last week, Daniel Suarez learned that his contract with Trackhouse Racing will not be extended beyond the current season, forcing him to seek a new ride for 2026. This news marks a difficult turning point for Suarez, who has been a key member of Trackhouse Racing for several years. Erik Jones, who has experienced similar upheaval in his own NASCAR career, recently shared his perspective on Suarez’s situation.
Erik Jones Reflects on His Own Career Change Experience
Erik Jones, 29, spent three years with Joe Gibbs Racing from 2018 to 2020 before switching to Richard Petty Motorsports. He spoke candidly about how challenging it was to face such a transition during a recent episode of Door, Bumper, Clear. Jones said,
“It’s tough. For me, at the time, I wasn’t excited that I got fired.”
He added that the change had its silver linings, explaining,
“I was looking forward to just seeing what was out there. I had been in that one group for a long time. So, it was interesting to see and work with a different group. And it helped me a lot, honestly — just going and doing something completely different. Working with a group that didn’t have all the resources. I learned a lot through everything.”
Jones Highlights Additional Challenges Suárez Faces at Trackhouse Racing
Jones believes Suarez’s situation is more complex due to his longer tenure with Trackhouse Racing, where the team’s structure and personnel have remained stable over time. Breaking away from such a consistent environment is difficult, especially when a driver’s results don’t match those of teammates. Jones noted,
“Ross [Chastain] has had some success. Daniel hasn’t quite been able to have that same level. And I don’t think that’s all on him. So, does he have a spot in Cup? I don’t know. Does he deserve it? Probably. But I don’t know if there’s space.”
Trackhouse Racing’s Early Announcement Supports Suarez’s Search for New Opportunities
The early notice from Trackhouse Racing owner Justin Marks about Suarez’s departure was intended to give the driver ample time to secure another team. Marks and Suarez maintain a friendly relationship, and this consideration reflected that. As Suarez looks forward, Jones pointed out two possible paths for his career’s second half.
Potential Paths Forward: Staying in Cup or Moving to Xfinity
Jones emphasized that Suarez could either remain in the Cup Series by joining a mid-tier team or step down to the Xfinity Series, where he could aim to win more races. Jones cited Justin Allgaier as an example of someone who found success moving into Xfinity, suggesting it is not a negative move. Jones remarked,
“I think he just internally has to decide what he wants to do, Do you want to grind it out in Cup? Yeah, you’re going to make more money, right? Even running 20th every week. Do you want to do that and tough it out for the next however many years it happens or do you want to go win races?”
Decision Time for Suarez as Career Crossroads Loom
While going back to the Xfinity Series remains an option, Suarez has already competed at that level and may be reluctant to return. Ultimately, the next move is one that Suarez must carefully consider amid a highly competitive field and uncertain team availability. His choice will likely shape the remainder of his NASCAR career, highlighting the complexities drivers face during pivotal transitions.
