Dale Earnhardt Jr. has fueled speculation about Daniel Suarez’s future in NASCAR after responding to a social media post suggesting Suarez might join Jimmie Johnson’s No. 40 team next season. This development follows Trackhouse Racing’s decision to part ways with Suarez ahead of the 2026 season, leaving the Mexican driver without a confirmed ride despite his recent participation in the NASCAR Cup Series race at Mexico City.
Trackhouse Racing and Daniel Suarez agreed to a mutual split, with the team preparing to introduce teenage prospect Connor Zilisch as Suarez’s replacement. Zilisch has gained attention through his strong performances in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. Yet, the conversation around Suarez’s career took an optimistic turn when Dale Earnhardt Jr., co-owner of JR Motorsports, reacted to a conceptual design post showing Suarez in a blue No. 40 Legacy Motor Club car, driven by Jimmie Johnson next year.
Although Johnson himself has not publicly commented on this idea, Earnhardt Jr.’s response through a Ryan Gosling GIF sent by NASCAR paint designer Scott Pierchorowicz sparked excitement among fans and analysts about a potential move. Earnhardt Jr.’s interest in Suarez aligns with the driver’s recent display of skill during the Mexico City event, making this pairing one to watch in the coming season.
Daniel Suarez Embraces New Opportunities After Parting Ways with Trackhouse Racing
Daniel Suarez, the only Mexican driver to have secured a NASCAR Cup Series victory, currently faces uncertainty after his departure from Trackhouse Racing. While his seat for the next season remains undecided, Suarez has approached the change with a positive mindset. He addressed his career shift during an interview with SiriusXM radio.
“This is just a new chapter. That’s all it is, This is not a sad moment. It’s just a change, and it happens. I have known about this for a while. I’m actually a little bit relieved that this is out and people know about it and we can talk about it and we can move forward with future plans and continue to work. I’m excited for whatever comes next.” —Daniel Suarez, NASCAR driver
Currently ranked 29th in the NASCAR Cup Series standings with 299 points, Suarez has yet to qualify for the playoffs this season. Despite the challenges, he remains hopeful to claim a victory in the upcoming races and secure a spot in the latter stages of the season.
Potential Impact of Suarez Joining JR Motorsports and Legacy Motor Club
If Daniel Suarez joins Jimmie Johnson’s No. 40 team, it could mark a significant shift for both Suarez and JR Motorsports. Suarez’s experience and skill could strengthen the team’s competitive edge in the NASCAR Cup Series. For Johnson, a seven-time Cup Series champion and NASCAR Hall of Famer, bringing in Suarez would be a strategic move toward maintaining the team’s strong presence on the track.
Suarez’s connection to the Mexican fan base and his track record as a race winner offer added value to the team, potentially increasing audience engagement and sponsorship appeal. This transition might also impact the Legacy Motor Club’s future, with Suarez potentially becoming a key driver in their lineup.
The upcoming months will be crucial as the NASCAR community waits for official confirmation of Suarez’s next steps. The combination of Earnhardt Jr.’s subtle hints and Suarez’s openness about new opportunities suggests a dynamic off-season ahead for the driver and his supporters.
