Josh Berry announced on Tuesday that he will not be retained by the Wood Brothers for the 2027 NASCAR Cup Series, bringing an abrupt close to a two‑year stint that had begun with high expectations.
The 35‑year‑old from Hendersonville, Tennessee, expressed disappointment but remained upbeat about the road ahead, pointing to his lone Cup victory at Las Vegas and a series of top‑10 finishes as proof of his capability.
Team owner Eddie Wood and the organization officially confirmed they will not exercise Berry’s option, a decision that was communicated less than 24 hours before the public announcement, leaving the driver scrambling for new opportunities.
Berry’s departure comes at a time when the Wood Brothers, the oldest active team in the Cup Series, are grappling with limited success since their last win in 2024, a situation that has been amplified by the series’ shift to a new playoff format.
A Historic Franchise in Transition
Founded in 1950, the Wood Brothers have fielded legendary machinery for Hall of Famers like David Pearson, Buddy Baker, Dale Jarrett, Ricky Rudd and Cale Yarborough, but the recent years have seen the team struggle to stay competitive against larger, better‑funded rivals.
Despite those challenges, the organization retains a charter that guarantees entry into every race, and its leadership remains hopeful that a fresh driver will revitalize performance and restore the team’s former glory.
The move also underscores a broader free‑agency ripple effect, with other iconic outfits such as Richard Childress Racing and 23XI Racing already filling open seats, setting the stage for a reshaped grid next season.
Looking Forward
For Berry, the immediate focus is on finishing the current season strong, accumulating points, and showcasing his talent to prospective teams, a strategy he believes will open doors to new contracts beyond the 2027 horizon.
Fans and analysts alike will watch closely as the veteran seeks to prove that his Las Vegas triumph was not a flash in the pan, while the Wood Brothers aim to rewrite their narrative from a legacy of past champions to a future of renewed competitiveness.