Ganassi Sale To Trackhouse Will Lead To CGR Layoffs

CONCORD, NC —Two months after selling its assets to Trackhouse Racing, Concord-based Chip Ganassi Racing (CGR) has announced it will end its participation in NASCAR, a move the company said could lead to layoffs of 55 CGR employees, WRAL TechWire reported Monday.

According to a notice filed with the North Carolina Department of Commerce, CGR will permanently cease operations in NASCAR following the end of the 2021 NASCAR Cup Series on Nov. 7. However, the notice indicated this will not be a "plant closing."

Instead, on Nov.8 , according to the filing, Trackhouse intends to begin operating a two-car NASCAR Cup Series team from the existing CGR facility. Trackhouse is co-owned by Justin Marks and the recording artist Pitbull.

According to Techwire, the notice, which was signed by CGR COO Doug Duchardt, indicated that up to 55 CGR employees may be affected, and that layoffs will commence on Nov. 7, and conclude within a 14-day period.

GCR owner Chip Ganassi has indicated he now will focus entirely on IndyCar, IMSA and Extreme E, according to Heavy.com.

Heavy.com also has reported that Trackhouse's owners have said they will make several changes when they take over the CGR team. Though Ross Chastain will continue to serve as one of the team's drivers.

Chastain will switch to the No. 1 Chevrolet Camaro after Kurt Busch heads to 23XI Racing to drive the No. 45 Toyota Camry.

"This is another dream come true for me," Chastain said according to Heavy.com. "Trackhouse is one of the most interesting organizations in the garage. The enthusiasm they bring off the track and the program they are building on the track is exciting. Working with (driver) Daniel (Suarez) and Marks, however I can, is my No. 1 priority. I know that I can help build our Chevrolets to be as strong as possible."