After the shocking announcement that champion driver Matt Kenseth would be returning on a part-time basis to Roush Fenway Racing, questions emerged as to if RFR would be showing favoritism to their new addition to the 6 car. However, team officials have pledged that they will continue to supply the same level of excellence to both their drivers—Matt Kenseth and Ricky Stenhouse Jr.
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| Stenhouse discussing the future with co-owner Jack Roush |
“Just because we have a former champion coming back into the fold, that doesn’t mean that we won’t be giving it our all when he’s not around”, said RFR spokeswoman Maura Alvin. “We’re a two car team, and we’re going to try to win every chance we get with BOTH our drivers—Matt Kenseth AND Ricky Stenhouse Jr.”
While showing speed at restrictor plate and short tracks, RFR has encountered a slump in the past few years, something many in the sport have attributed to a lack in driver skill. Alvin, however, shot down those accusations.
“Look, we have a former champion in Matt (Kenseth) coming back to the team, so of course we’re excited about that. But let’s not lose sight of the driver he’s joining here—Ricky Stenhouse Jr. is a winning driver with sponsor appeal. He’s still going to be a big part of our future while we work in the present towards getting him into the Playoffs.”
Stenhouse, for his part, seemed to take the announcement in stride.
“I’m surprised you’re asking me about this”, Stenhouse said when reached for comment. “I really see things as being business as usual for us at RFR. Just because we’re being joined by Matt (Kenseth) again doesn’t mean things will be any different for us. Besides, I’m confident that with two Cup Series wins under my belt, the team knows I’m not a one-win wonder—if that was the case, I’d be lucky to even have a job.”