NASCAR: Possible Kevin Harvick replacement emerging for 2024?

Kevin Harvick hinted at retiring from NASCAR last year, and his contract is set to run out in 2023. Could his replacement be a familiar face?

Stewart-Haas Racing’s Kevin Harvick is still thriving in his NASCAR Cup Series career, recently picking up back-to-back wins at Michigan International Speedway and Richmond Raceway.

But back in December, he stated he was ready to retire after last season. While he has shifted gears on retirement, his contract with Stewart-Haas Racing is set to expire after the 2023 season, and he has said that he wants to be in charge of his future plans.

The 2007 Daytona 500 winner could still compete past 2023, but there is no guarantee. As of now, Stewart-Haas Racing don’t have a driver committed to the #4 Ford Mustang for the 2024 season.

Additionally, with Aric Almirola having put off retirement until at least the end of the 2024 season, the Fort Walton Beach, Florida native could serve as the veteran presence in a lineup that currently consists of Chase Briscoe, who has been the face of their role in the youth movement.

If Kevin Harvick retires or Stewart-Haas Racing elect to let him explore other options, they may look to a driver they have pursued before.

The mutual respect that Stewart-Haas Racing co-owner Tony Stewart and Hendrick Motorsports driver Kyle Larson have for one another is no secret. Larson often cites Stewart as one of his idols, and Stewart has stated that Larson is even better than he was.

Additionally, Stewart tried to sign Larson for the 2017 season, but he was unable to do so given Larson’s contract with Chip Ganassi Racing at the time.

He tried again for the 2021 season, but he later revealed that Ford denied the attempt. Larson was coming off a suspension after using a racial slur during an iRacing event and was viewed as untouchable by a lot of teams.

Hendrick Motorsports team owner Rick Hendrick took a chance on the Elk Grove, California native anyway, and through redemption on and off the track, it led to Larson winning the 2021 Cup Series championship.

Larson’s contract with Hendrick Motorsports is set to expire after 2023, just like Harvick’s is with Stewart-Haas Racing. Additionally, given his multiple run-ins with teammate Chase Elliott, who recently signed a five-year extension, it remains unknown if the team will look to keep the duo in-house together for the long haul.

If Hendrick Motorsports elect to let Larson walk, the #4 Ford would be the ideal landing spot for the 30-year-old. Stewart has publicized his numerous attempts to sign Larson, and with their flagship driver facing an uncertain future, he may finally get to do so. A change of scenery could benefit all involved.