Ryan Newman returns to NASCAR Cup Series with Rick Ware Racing

Photo from Ryan Newman on Twitter

   Ryan Newman will return to the NASCAR Cup Series for select races, driving for Rick Ware Racing (RWR), the team revealed Friday, May 5, 2023.

 Newman who was recently named one of NASCAR '75 Greatest Drivers' is a veteran of the sport, jumping into the NASCAR scene in 2001. Since then Newman has won 26 times, and has 141 top-five finishes, and 309 top-10 finishes, across NASCAR's three national series. 

With 725 Cup Series starts, Newman will fill a vacancy with the team, beginning at Darlington Raceway. 

"I am grateful for the opportunity to work with Rick Ware Racing and Ford," said Newman in a prepared statement for the team. "I think this will be good for all of us with our combined experience and knowledge." 

Cody Ware, the son of team owner Rick Ware, was recently suspended from NASCAR indefinitely. This decision was made by the sanctioning body when Ware was arrested for a domestic assault incident. 

This suspension of a full-time driver has left a void in the driver lineup at Rick Ware Racing, one Newman may be able to help fill. 

"He brings great depth and insight to RWR while we continue to grow our team. Ryan’s been a great ambassador for our sport and Ford. We’re really looking forward to racing with him this season," said Rick Ware in a prepared statement. 

The number of races, track selection and car number that Newman will compete with are yet to be announced.