"Without Rick, I wouldn’t even be in the Cup Series”: Justin Haley dismisses rumors linking him to replace Harrison Burton at Wood Brothers Racing

Rick Ware Racing driver Justin Haley has pledged his loyalty to the team he joined at the beginning of the campaign. This follows rumors that the 25-year-old is considering a transfer to Wood Brothers Racing as a replacement for Harrison Burton.

Justin Haley joined Rick Ware Racing at the start of the current NASCAR season and has since exceeded expectations. Many initially doubted his ability to succeed with Rick Ware Racing, but Haley’s performances have silenced critics, making him a hot topic in the Silly Season.

Speculation about Haley’s potential move to Wood Brothers Racing, one of NASCAR’s most prestigious teams, was fueled during a recent episode of the Door Bumper Clear Podcast. The podcast suggested that Haley could be a candidate to replace Harrison Burton in the No. 21 Ford Mustang, especially since Burton has not yet been re-signed for the upcoming season.

However, in a recent interview with NASCAR.com, Justin Haley made it clear that his loyalty lies firmly with Rick Ware Racing. He said:

"Looking back, a year ago Rick Ware and Lisa Ware, an opportunity when I was high and dry and didn’t have an opportunity left in the Cup Series. I trusted them, and they trusted me."

Haley emphasized his commitment to the team, acknowledging that without Rick Ware’s support, he wouldn’t be competing in the Cup Series today. He added:

"[I’m] super thankful that they even gave me this opportunity. Because without Rick, I wouldn’t even be in the Cup Series right now. I have a lot to owe to him this year, and a lot of trust, and a lot of confidence are what he has in me."

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Justin Haley affirmative that he will stay with Rick Ware Racing for the next decade

Haley's loyalty to Rick Ware Racing is not just a short-term pledge. He envisions a long-term future with the team, stating he is willing to stay as long as they want him. He stated:

“Super thankful for Rick, and everything he’s done for me, and I’m committed to him and his process. And whatever Rick wants my future to be, if he wants me to stay for five to 10 years, I’ll stay for five to 10 years just because he gave me the opportunity when no one else would."

Reflecting on his journey, Justin Haley reiterated his immense gratitude towards Rick Ware Racing. He concluded:

"I kind of owe everything to him. I’m super thankful for Rick, and really appreciative that he even gave me this opportunity."

Out of 17 races, Justin Haley has secured two top-10 finishes while driving the No. 51 Ford for Rick Ware Racing. The 25-year-old is ranked 30th in the NASCAR Cup Series standings with 234 points.