Noah Gragson Sets Sights on Kevin Harvick’s NASCAR Legacy with Bold Crew Chief Statement
With the 2025 Cup Series season fast approaching, drivers are gearing up for new challenges. Noah Gragson, leaving behind his time at Stewart-Haas Racing (SHR), is preparing for a fresh start with Front Row Motorsports (FRM). Carrying lessons from his past, Gragson aims to build on the legacy of Kevin Harvick, who famously drove the No. 4 car.
Gragson is set to drive the No. 4 Ford, now under FRM’s banner after acquiring a charter from Tony Stewart’s former team. This car has a storied history, and Gragson is eager to continue its legacy with his trusted crew chief.
Gragson Highlights Strong Partnership with Crew Chief
The bond between a driver and crew chief is crucial. While Gragson’s first Cup Series season had its setbacks, his time at SHR proved invaluable. He developed a strong rapport with veteran crew chief Drew Blickensderfer, who played a key role in securing several top finishes. Even though SHR is closing a significant chapter, Gragson and Blickensderfer will continue their partnership, aiming for success with the No. 4 Ford.
Gragson affectionately refers to Blickensderfer as “Lil Rhod” or “Lil Rhodney,” drawing inspiration from Rodney Childers, the crew chief who guided Harvick to a championship with the same car. Childers, now with Spire Motorsports, expressed mixed feelings about seeing the No. 4 car in action under a different banner.
Excited for New Beginnings with Familiar Faces
Gragson is also looking forward to teaming up with Todd Gilliland, a former teammate from the Craftsman Truck Series. With Gilliland driving the No. 38 Ford and Zane Smith as their teammate, Gragson is optimistic about the season. Adding to the excitement is FRM’s recent legal victory, securing essential charters for their operations.
As the season nears, Gragson is ready to make his mark, building on past experiences and embracing new opportunities with FRM.
