In a surprising turn of events, Spire Motorsports has announced its decision to part ways with veteran crew chief Rodney Childers, marking an early end to what many had hoped would be a fruitful partnership.
Childers joined Spire during the offseason following an impressive 11-year stint with Stewart-Haas Racing, which ceased operations at the end of the 2024 season. His signing with Spire was confirmed last July under a multiyear deal, and he began the 2025 season working with driver Justin Haley on the No. 7 team.
Spire addressed the decision with a statement, emphasizing the importance of team chemistry and the evolving nature of NASCAR.
“NASCAR is an ever-evolving sport and the path to improvement isn’t always comfortable. The break in the Cup Series schedule gave us a chance to evaluate where we are as a program. We took the opportunity to discuss the best paths forward for everyone involved and the team and Rodney agreed that it would be best for us to part ways,” the team said.
“Rodney has worked at the highest level of our sport for 20 years, and he knows what it takes to win championships. With that in mind, we collectively acknowledged challenges with the team dynamic. Having the right combination of talent is just as important as the results on track.”
Childers later shared his own thoughts via social media, acknowledging the difficult but necessary split.
“I know this is a shock. But also know that not everything works out perfect all the time. That’s how life works,” he wrote. “This was just one of those things that just wasn’t working for either of us. I appreciate my time at Spire, working with JH and the entire 7 team. We did a lot of good that is yet to be seen, and I wish them the best in the future.”
He also extended thanks to Chevrolet, Rick Hendrick, and Hendrick Motorsports, with whom he briefly reunited during his time at Spire.
“Thank you to NASCAR, the officials, and most importantly the fans for your support. For me, I’m going to take a little time. Focus on the important things like my family and friends. And honestly just see what the racing world holds for me next. I know the man above will lead me in a direction that is best for me.”
Justin Haley, currently ranked 23rd in the Cup Series standings, has struggled to gain momentum this season, securing just one top-10 finish—10th place at Homestead-Miami Speedway last month.
Rodney Childers brings with him a stellar track record, boasting 40 Cup Series wins, the majority of which came in partnership with Kevin Harvick. The duo notably won the 2014 Cup Series championship during their first year together at Stewart-Haas Racing.
While his time with Spire was brief, Childers’ reputation as one of the top minds in the garage remains untarnished. His next chapter in NASCAR is highly anticipated, as both fans and teams watch closely to see where the seasoned crew chief lands next.
