Full Breakdown
CR7 Motorsports Announces Crew Chief Change Ahead of Playoff Race
9/16/2025, 1:59:43 PM
Crew Chief Transition at CR7 Motorsports
CR7 Motorsports has officially announced a significant change in its crew chief lineup for the No. 9 Chevrolet Silverado driven by Grant Enfinger. Jeff Stankiewicz has been replaced by Michael Shelton as the crew chief, effective immediately, just before the critical cutoff race in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series playoffs at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. Team owner Codie Rohrbaugh expressed gratitude for Stankiewicz's contributions, stating, “His leadership and dedication helped position our team to win races and contend for championships. We are grateful for everything he has contributed to CR7 Motorsports and wish him the very best moving forward.”
Performance Overview
Stankiewicz and Enfinger had been together since 2024, achieving notable success, including two wins and a Championship 4 appearance in their first season. However, the current season has seen the duo struggle, finishing winless and recently placing 21st at Bristol, a track where Enfinger had previously excelled. As the playoffs progressed, the No. 9 team found itself 29 points above the cutline, with Enfinger currently ranked fifth in the playoff standings.
Michael Shelton's Appointment
Michael Shelton, who has extensive experience in the NASCAR Truck Series, will step in as the interim crew chief. He has previously led teams to seven Truck Series wins and a championship with James Buescher in 2012. Shelton expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity, stating, “I’m looking forward to working with Grant and the entire CR7 Motorsports crew. This team has shown great potential, and I’m eager to help unlock even more of it as we head to Loudon and beyond.”
Implications for the Playoffs
The timing of this crew chief change is critical, as the upcoming race at New Hampshire represents the end of the Round of 10 in the playoffs. Enfinger's position is precarious; he is 29 points above the cutline, but with the possibility of a winner emerging from below the cutline, the pressure is on to secure a strong finish. The team aims to leverage Shelton's experience to enhance performance and build momentum as they navigate the playoff landscape.
Criticism & Opposition
While the change has been framed positively by team management, some analysts and fans have raised concerns about the abruptness of the transition so close to a pivotal race. Critics argue that such a shift can disrupt team dynamics and strategy, particularly in high-stakes situations like the playoffs.
What's Next
The No. 9 team will debut the new crew chief-driver pairing at the Team EJP 175 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. With the playoffs intensifying, all eyes will be on how Shelton's leadership influences Enfinger's performance in this crucial race.
Verbatim Quotes
- “His leadership and dedication helped position our team to win races and contend for championships.” — Codie Rohrbaugh, Team Owner
- “I’m looking forward to working with Grant and the entire CR7 Motorsports crew,” — Michael Shelton, Interim Crew Chief
This crew chief change marks a pivotal moment for CR7 Motorsports as they strive to maintain their playoff position and aim for championship contention.
