Trackhouse Racing, a prominent name in NASCAR, especially after Ross Chastain’s remarkable 2022 season, is now under scrutiny regarding the future involvement of co-owner Armando Pérez, better known as the Grammy-award-winning artist Pitbull.
Pitbull joined Trackhouse Racing in 2021, adding star power to the team founded by former NASCAR driver Justin Marks in 2020. The team quickly gained attention for its competitive performance and the involvement of high-profile figures like Pitbull. The artist has been vocal about his passion for the underdog story, as he previously stated, “Underdogs, one thing we love is a challenge. We love when people tell us no, don’t, won’t, never will happen, crazy, stupid, impossible. Those are words that fuel us.”
NASCAR Rumor: Artist Pitbull To Sell His Ownership Of Trackhouse Racing https://t.co/1CiaTqwz3X
— #TuckFrump (@realTuckFrumper) July 29, 2024
Recent developments, including the acquisition of a significant minority stake by billionaire Marc Lasry’s Avenue Sports Fund, have sparked speculation about changes in the team’s ownership structure. This move, alongside a subtle change in Justin Marks’ title from “co-owner” to “owner” on social media, has led to rumors that Pitbull might be stepping back from his role with the team.
The uncertainty surrounding Pitbull’s involvement coincides with ongoing negotiations around driver Daniel Suarez’s contract renewal. In a recent interview with Fox, Suarez expressed strong loyalty to Trackhouse Racing, saying, “Trackhouse is the place to be… I wouldn’t trade Trackhouse for any other team. It doesn’t matter if it’s Gibbs, Hendrick, whatever, I wouldn’t trade it.” He emphasized the supportive environment at Trackhouse, where he feels his voice is valued and his contributions are recognized, a sentiment that has solidified his commitment to the team.
Suarez reflected on his career journey, highlighting the significance of finding a supportive and trusting team environment at Trackhouse Racing. “For the very first time in my Cup career, I feel that way. I truly believe that… I feel like I found a home,” Suarez added, underscoring the importance of having a say in team decisions and the potential for growth within the organization.
@dpshow for what it’s worth, like No. 12 AND 23, Pit Bull owns a race Team:
🤷🏻♂️https://t.co/alrIeqC715#WNBA | #NASCAR | #PitBull | #CrossCulture | #ChangingLanes | #Track | #House | #No | #Trackhouse & #TrackhouseRacing#DanPatrickShow 🫣— Lil’ Toot 🌊⛴😲 (@LilToot62) July 22, 2024
The recent changes in ownership raise questions about the future direction of Trackhouse Racing. The team’s aspirations to expand into other motorsports areas, such as MotoGP, with potential backing from new investors, indicate a broadening of their ambitions. However, the alignment of these new ventures with the passions and future roles of existing stakeholders like Pitbull remains uncertain.
Key Points:
i. Trackhouse Racing’s ownership structure is under scrutiny, with rumors about Pitbull’s future involvement.
ii. Billionaire Marc Lasry’s Avenue Sports Fund acquired a significant minority stake in the team.
iii. Daniel Suarez expressed strong loyalty to Trackhouse Racing and highlighted the supportive environment.
iv. Suarez emphasized the importance of having a voice in team decisions and his commitment to the team.
v. The team’s ambitions to expand into other motorsports areas raise questions about the future roles of existing stakeholders.
Kirk Volo – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
