Noah Gragson hints at 2025 Cup ride announcement timeline following Tony Stewart-led SHR exit

Noah Gragson has dropped hints about his plans for 2025, indicating he will stay in the Cup garage next season. He revealed that he is close to finalizing a deal, with an official announcement expected in the coming weeks.

Following Tony Stewart's exit from NASCAR as a team owner, the four Stewart Haas Racing drivers became prominent figures in the silly season. Chase Briscoe was the first to announce his move to Joe Gibbs Racing, while Josh Berry will take the wheel of the iconic #21 Ford for Wood Brothers Racing.

Noah Gragson and Ryan Preece are yet to announce their plans for the future but Gragson disclosed that he is very close to finalizing a deal for his 2025 ride. In a recent interview with Fox Sports' Bob Pockrass during the Chicago Street Race, the 25-year-old Las Vegas native shed light on the progress of his negotiations.

"I think probably within the next week or two, you will start hearing some stuff, so we are getting there." he said.

When asked if he would continue in the NASCAR Cup Series, Gragson confirmed that he would remain in the Cup garage. After Pockrass inquired about which manufacturer he would be driving for next year, the #10 SHR driver jokingly replied:

"It's either one of the three, I'm sure"

According to Bob Pockrass, Gragson is linked to one of the two seats at Front Row Motorsports next season. The team recently bought a charter from SHR, with Todd Gilliland announced to drive one of the three cars next season.

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Noah Gragson elaborates on his mindset during free agency

Entering his sophomore season, the #10 Stewart-Haas Racing driver aimed for redemption and to rebuild his career. However, Tony Stewart's exit has once again made him a free agent in the driver market.

Noah Gragson explained that the closer he gets to announcing the deal, it frees up his mind to focus on the on-track performance, rather than worry about his NASCAR career.

"Definitely the closer you get, it allows you to focus more on just doing your job on the weekend rather than your mind wandering and running 'What's gonna happen next year?'"

"Obviously, it's easier said than done about not to think about next year and just focus on right now and what will come will come. It definitely is something that I feel like I can compete on Sunday's with these guys and hopefully we get that opportunity," he told Pockrass.

Noah Gragson had a tumultuous start to his Cup career, getting suspended in his rookie campaign with Legacy Motor Club last season. His sophomore season at Stewart Haas Racing also has not been smooth sailing, with the organization downsizing to a single-car operation next season.

Despite the challenges, Gragson has shown improvement over his difficult rookie season. Midway through this season, he has secured one top-five finish and six top-ten finishes.