It had long been speculated that Aric Almirola and his long-time sponsor Smithfield Foods would return to Stewart-Haas Racing for the 2020 season, but Thursday the speculation became official news.
Adam Stern of Sports Business Journal first reported that Almirola was back for next season. Shortly after, SHR confirmed the news.
?@SmithfieldFoods has extended its primary sponsorship deal with @StewartHaasRcng for the '20 @NASCAR Cup Series season, locking up an important renewal for the team.
? @Aric_Almirola's deal with the team has also been extended.
? Smithfield will have around 25-30 primaries. pic.twitter.com/UPyWFGy0Ug
— Adam Stern (@A_S12) October 10, 2019
Now, the 2020 lineup for the four-car team is beginning to take shape.
Kevin Harvick will be back in the No. 4 car joining Almirola in car No. 10.
The team is half way set for next year.
It has been rumored that Clint Bowyer should be safe to return to the No. 14 after making the Playoffs again this season, and Daniel Suarez has stated that he is close to a contract extension, but negotiations are still ongoing.