Aric Almirola has been confirmed as Danica Patrick’s replacement at Stewart-Haas Racing in the #10 Ford Fusion for the 2018 NASCAR Cup series, as predicted by Autosport.
Almirola has spent six seasons with Richard Petty Motorsports and won one race, but missed seven rounds in 2017 after a sizable crash at Kansas in May.
He was then replaced by Darrell “Bubba” Wallace at the team for 2018, paving his way to replace Patrick at Stewart-Haas.
SHR co-owner Tony Stewart was the team-mate of Almirola at Joe Gibbs Racing, and says their time together played a role in the signing.
“I’ve known Aric since 2004 and have always been impressed with him on the racetrack,” he said.
“I’ve raced with him and seen him mature into a really good race car driver.
He can compete for wins here at Stewart-Haas Racing and help our other drivers compete for wins.”
Almirola says he is aware of the expectations on him for season.
“This is the opportunity every racer wants,” he said.
“Stewart-Haas Racing is an experienced organisation with a lot of depth, great technical support from Ford, and staffed with racers from top to bottom.
“They lean on each other, challenge each other and make each other better.
“I’m really looking forward to being a part of that.”
Outgoing SHR driver Patrick has yet to secure a new drive in NASCAR, but said she will not consider other series next season.
It remains unclear whether Patrick’s current #10 team will remain with Almirola next season.