Newman to Pilot Roush Fenway’s No. 6 in 2019

By Seth Eggert, Staff Writer

At Richmond Raceway on Saturday afternoon, Ryan Newman announced that he will be joining Roush Fenway Racing following the 2018 Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series season. The 17-year veteran will drive the teams’ iconic No. 6 Ford Mustang for the entire season.

The Roush Fenway No. 6 has visited victory lane 36 times with Mark Martin and David Ragan behind the wheel. Currently, seat time in the No. 6 Ford Fusion is split by veteran Matt Kenseth and Trevor Bayne. In total, the organization has visited victory lane 137 times, most recently with Ricky Stenhouse, Jr. in the 2017 Coke Zero 400 at Daytona International Speedway.

“I am excited about getting behind the wheel of the No. 6 car and working with Jack Roush and everyone at Roush Fenway Racing,” said Newman. “I’ve always respected what Jack Roush has brought to the sport. I can remember some intense battles with the No. 6 back when Mark Martin was in the car. There is a lot of history there and I am excited about getting behind the wheel of the No. 6 Mustang to compete for wins and the playoffs next year.”

Newman currently has 18 victories, the most recently coming at ISM Raceway last season with his current team, Richard Childress Racing. He also has 112 top-five and 246 Top-10 finishes. Newman’s nickname, ‘Rocket Man,’ comes from both his 51 career pole positions, as well as his Engineering degree from Purdue University.

The South Bend, IN native’s first victory came in a Ford at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in 2002. The last time Newman competed in a Ford was the 2002 season-finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway.

“I’m pleased to announce that Ryan Newman will be joining our team as the new driver of the No. 6 Ford,” said team co-owner Roush, a 2019 inductee into the NASCAR Hall of Fame. “Ryan’s accomplishments and achievements speak for themselves. He is a fierce competitor and one of the top drivers in NASCAR.”

Newman, like his future teammate Stenhouse, failed to make the 2018 Playoffs. He has eight Top-10 finishes this season.

Sponsorship for the No. 6 Ford Mustang will be announced at a later date.