Josh Berry, the 30‑year‑old driver who has been a fixture in the NASCAR Cup Series, announced that he will not return to Wood Brothers Racing’s No. 21 Ford after the 2026 season. The news emerged on Tuesday, ending a tenure that began with promise and included a victory at Las Vegas in 2025 and a playoff berth the following year.
Berry, currently 30th in the series standings, has struggled to recapture that early success, but the win and playoff appearance remain highlights of his recent résumé. He admitted the news was disappointing, yet he said it was not entirely unexpected given the rumors that had circulated in the garage.
The No. 21 Ford: A Coveted Seat
The decision creates one of the most intriguing openings on next year’s Cup Series grid. The No. 21 Ford is more than just a seat; it is closely aligned with Team Penske and is viewed as a desirable position within the Ford camp, offering technical resources and a platform that many drivers would covet.
With a proven race winner entering the driver market and a Penske‑affiliated seat now available, NASCAR’s driver carousel has taken on a fresh layer of intrigue. Analysts are already speculating about potential candidates who might step into the No. 21 car, while Berry’s next move remains a question mark.