Matt DiBenedetto will drive for the Wood Brothers Racing in the 2021 season, but Austin Cindric will take his place in 2022.
DiBenedetto’s future was up in the air for a while now. However, with strong performance and qualification in the Cup Series playoffs for the first time, his future is resolved at least for one more year.
It was confirmed that he will take charge of the No. 21 car for one more season.
Speaking about the contract extension, DiBenedetto said:
“These types of decisions take a lot of time. As we all know there are a lot of factors in play. All three groups want to make the best decisions for everyone involved and I’m appreciative to have the opportunity to continue to compete for such a legendary race team.”
However, he has only been contracted for one more year and Xfinity driver Cindric will take over his place starting with 2022.
Matt DiBenedetto gets another year in the 21: DiBenedetto to drive the Wood Brothers No. 21 Cup car in 2021. Austin Cindric will do Xfinity and select Cup races in 2021 for Penske and will drive the Wood Brothers No. 21 Cup car starting in 2022. #nascar
— Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) October 8, 2020
Cindric who is having an exceptional season in the Cup Series will also be driving a select number of races in the Cup Series next season.
Speaking about Cindric, Team Penske founder Jay Penske said:
“Austin has made great strides in recent years & he has become a consistent winner & a true championship contender this season. He will continue his natural progression & get some Cup Series experience in 2021.”