Josh Berry's NASCAR Story Was Never Supposed To Be Easy

BusinessSportsMoneyJosh Berry's NASCAR Story Was Never Supposed To Be EasyByGreg Engle,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Greg Engle is a Florida based reporter who covers NASCAR.Follow AuthorJun 11, 2026, 10:10am EDTCHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - JANUARY 22: Josh Berry poses for a photo during NASCAR Production Days at Charlotte Convention Center on January 22, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)Getty ImagesIn addition to the pressure that comes with racing in NASCAR’s premier Cup Series, Josh Berry now faces another challenge: the added pressure of looking for pastures that he hopes are a bit greener next season.That’s because Wood Brothers Racing said Wednesday that they have decided not to keep Berry around after the season ends. Berry Breaks His Own NewsThe stunning news comes days before Berry is set to make his 100th start in the NASCAR Cup series in the Wood Brothers famous No. 21 Ford. It was also news that came as a shock to the media as well. That’s because it was Berry himself who revealed his departure during what is normally a weekly, routine, Ford media session. When asked to reflect on his career at the 100th start milestone, Berry said it’s been an amazing ride full of ups and downs. Sadly, his future now appears to be one of those downs. “I’ll just go ahead and put it out there that I will not be back in the 21 car next year,” he said in an almost offhanded tone. “I’m obviously disappointed about that. They’ve been amazing to work with. They’re amazing people and it’s been such a great opportunity.”That pronouncement set off a flurry of activity that saw reporters scrambling to post to social media channels, while still trying to listen to what Berry had to say. Moments later the team posted a statement to its own social media channels:MORE FOR YOUWINSTON SALEM, NORTH CAROLINA - FEBRUARY 04: Josh Berry, driver of the #21 Motorcraft/Quick Lane Ford, looks on duri...