Smithfield moves sponsorship to Stewart-Haas

Smithfield Foods is moving its primary sponsorship from Richard Petty Motorsports to Stewart-Haas Racing in 2018, as announced by both sides Tuesday morning.

"It was a difficult decision to leave @RPMotorsports but we feel this move will improve our competitiveness on the track," a statement on Smithfield's social media read.

Related Stories

"Details of the agreement, including the driver who will be added to SHR's Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series lineup in 2018, will be provided at a later date."

Almirola is also in a contract year.

The news comes at a good time for SHR, who appears to be in a state of flux when it comes to its drivers and sponsors for next year. Support is needed on both the No. 10 of Danica Patrick as well as the No. 14 of Clint Bowyer. Bowyer joined the organization this season while Patrick said earlier this year her future is all contingent on a sponsor.

Kurt Busch, driver of the No. 41, is also still waiting for to hear what SHR and sponsor Monster Energy will do with his contract.

"We're very proud to have Smithfield Foods join the Stewart-Haas Racing family," said SHR president Brett Frood. "Smithfield has activated heavily and successfully within the sport, and we're honored to be a part of the brand's forward initiatives and strategy. Although we're not really to announced the full details of the program, we look forward to this new endeavor while remaining focused on the upcoming playoffs and putting forth the best effort possible to win more races and contend for another championship."