Aric Almirola will not return to drive the No. 10 Ford for Stewart-Haas Racing next season, he revealed on social media Saturday morning.
Almirola, a two-time winner with SHR, posted a series of photos detailing his departure from the team.
“After much prayer consideration and conversations with my family, I’m ready for the next adventure,” Almirola stated.
“To everyone at Stewart-Haas Racing: A genuine and heartfelt THANK YOU for the last six years. Winning races and competing with all of you has been a thrill. Our opportunity together was made possible by all of our wonderful partners to which I owe much gratitude because as a racecar driver, I can’t compete without corporate sponsorship.
“It’s been an honor to represent the many companies and all of their employees.”
— Aric Almirola (@Aric_Almirola) October 28, 2023
The 39-year-old has missed the NASCAR Cup Series Playoffs the last two seasons with a combined 11 top-10 finishes during that timespan.
Smithfield Foods, Almirola’s primary sponsor, released a statement revealing their tenure in NASCAR will come to an end after the Cup Series finale at Phoenix Raceway.
“Smithfield Foods congratulates Aric Almirola on his excellent run with Stewart-Haas Racing. With Aric’s decision to explore new opportunities, the time has come for Smithfield to end our NASCAR partnership.”
Smithfield Foods Statement on NASCAR Sponsorship pic.twitter.com/Z9u5i05ymm
— Smithfield Foods (@SmithfieldFoods) October 28, 2023
To date, Almirola’s last victory came at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in 2021.
It’ll be a major year of turnover for the championship-winning organization as only two drivers (Chase Briscoe and Ryan Preece) are returning. With 2014 Cup Series champion Kevin Harvick retiring after this season, NASCAR Xfinity Series driver Josh Berry will pilot the No. 4 Ford in his rookie season.