Ryan Preece is ready to hit the reset button. The Berlin, Connecticut native is preparing for the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season with a new car, a fresh outlook, and the determination to prove himself on racing’s biggest stage.
After a challenging 2023 campaign with Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR), Preece enters the new year with renewed confidence and a focus on making the most of his opportunities. With SHR shutting down at the end of 2024, Preece finds himself in a pivotal year—one that could determine his future in the Cup Series.
A Season of Learning and Adjustments
Preece’s 2023 season was a mix of highs and lows, as he battled through growing pains in his first full-time Cup ride with SHR. While he showed flashes of speed and short-track prowess, the results didn’t always reflect his potential. Still, his background in modified racing and experience on smaller, technical tracks kept him competitive, particularly on tracks like Martinsville, Richmond, and New Hampshire.
Heading into 2024, Preece and his team are looking to build on the lessons learned and capitalize on opportunities when they arise.
New Car, New Energy
Preece will continue to drive the No. 41 Ford Mustang, but the car itself has undergone significant offseason changes. NASCAR’s Next Gen car continues to evolve, and teams—including SHR—have worked tirelessly to fine-tune setups and improve performance. For Preece, that means an opportunity to start fresh and make a stronger impact early in the season.
“Our team has been working really hard in the offseason, and I’m excited to get back behind the wheel,” Preece said. “We know what we need to improve, and I’m ready to go out there and fight for better finishes.”
Key Races for Preece in 2024
While every race matters, certain tracks stand out as key opportunities for Preece to shine:
• Daytona 500 (Feb. 18, 2024): Superspeedway chaos presents a chance for an underdog like Preece to pull off a big upset.
• Martinsville Speedway (April 7, 2024 & Nov. 3, 2024): A track that suits Preece’s short-track expertise—could be his best shot at a breakthrough win.
• New Hampshire Motor Speedway (June 23, 2024): A home track for Preece, where he’ll have plenty of local support.
A Make-or-Break Year?
With SHR’s future uncertain, Preece knows that strong performances in 2024 could shape his NASCAR career moving forward. Whether he can secure consistent finishes, contend for wins, or impress potential team owners, this season will be one of his most important yet.
As the NASCAR Cup Series gets set for another thrilling season, Ryan Preece is ready to show the world what he’s capable of. With a new car, new mindset, and the same relentless determination, the Berlin, Connecticut racer is aiming to make 2024 his best year yet.
