Shockwaves sent across NASCAR Community as Eldora Speedway Owner Tony Stewart makes a surprising statement announcing that Jonathan Davenport has been made the…
In a stunning and unexpected announcement, NASCAR and dirt racing fans alike were rocked today when Eldora Speedway owner and racing legend Tony Stewart revealed that dirt late model superstar Jonathan Davenport has been named the new full-time driver of the No. 10 car for Stewart-Haas Racing in the NASCAR Cup Series.
Known to many as “Superman” in the dirt racing world, Davenport is a multi-time Dirt Late Model Dream and World 100 winner at Eldora Speedway and one of the most dominant dirt racers of the modern era. While he has made a handful of appearances in NASCAR-sanctioned events, including the Truck Series and a few one-off Cup races on dirt tracks like Bristol, few could have predicted such a monumental leap into a full-time Cup ride.
Tony Stewart broke the news in a press conference held at Eldora Speedway, where fans were gathered for a midweek dirt event. “I’ve watched Jonathan Davenport dominate on dirt tracks across the country, and I’ve seen firsthand the level of talent and discipline he brings to the sport,” Stewart said. “We believe in giving racers a real shot, and I believe Jonathan has what it takes to compete at the highest level in NASCAR. He’s earned this opportunity.”
The No. 10 car, previously driven by Aric Almirola, had been left in limbo following Almirola’s retirement speculation and the team’s ongoing restructuring. With Stewart-Haas Racing looking to rejuvenate its lineup, bringing in a dirt racing icon like Davenport marks both a bold and unconventional move.
Reactions from the NASCAR community came swiftly—and they were mixed. Many dirt racing fans celebrated the announcement, thrilled to see one of their own get a shot on the biggest stage in stock car racing. “Superman is going Cup full-time? Let’s go!” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). Others in the NASCAR fanbase were more skeptical, questioning whether a driver with limited experience in heavy stock cars on asphalt could adapt quickly enough to handle the rigors of a full Cup schedule.
Davenport, who stood alongside Stewart during the announcement, appeared both humbled and confident. “This is a dream I didn’t even know I had until recently,” he said. “I’ve always been a dirt racer at heart, but when Tony called and said he believed in me, I knew I had to take the chance. I know I’ve got a lot to learn, but I’m ready to put in the work and prove I belong here.”
While it’s not unprecedented for dirt racers to make the jump—Tony Stewart himself made a successful transition, as did Kyle Larson and Christopher Bell—Davenport’s move is certainly the most high-profile and dramatic leap from late models to a full-time Cup Series ride in years.
As Stewart-Haas Racing continues to evolve, this announcement adds new energy—and major curiosity—to the upcoming NASCAR season. One thing’s certain: all eyes will be on Jonathan Davenport as he begins his most daring race yet.
Leave a Reply