Chad Knaus Promoted to Vice President of Competition for Hendrick Motorsports


credit: Debbie Ross/Skirts and Scuffs

Chad Knaus will be moving from pit road to the executive suite for Hendrick Motorsports at the conclusion of the 2020 NASCAR Cup Series season. It was announced today that he will be promoted to Vice President of Competition. In his new role, Knaus will oversee the technical development of the team's race cars, including its implementation of NASCAR’s 2022 “Next Gen” vehicle. He will also be responsible for all personnel working for the organization’s four competition teams.

In a statement released on the Hendrick Motorsports website, team owner Rick Hendrick said, “In life, it’s rare to witness true excellence first-hand, but that’s precisely what we’ve been treated to with Chad. Today’s announcement is bittersweet because, in my opinion, he is the finest crew chief our sport has ever seen. Although we’re going to miss him atop the pit box, I’m heartened that Chad has made this decision for himself and his growing family and that he is energized about the opportunity to move us forward in a new capacity. There is no one with higher standards or a stronger passion for winning. He will continue to elevate Hendrick Motorsports and instill his championship mentality throughout the company.”

Having won seven Cup Series championships, five of which were consecutive, with veteran driver Jimmie Johnson, Chad Knaus has had a highly successful career as a top-tier crew chief. He has achieved 82 wins and is the all-time leader in NASCAR playoff victories with 29 wins. Most recently, he called his 700th Cup Series race with driver William Bryon piloting the No. 24 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE.

“After all these years, my competitive desire has not changed at all, but now I have a family that deserves my attention. This new executive role will allow me to compete in a different way with all four of our teams while spending more time with my wife and two young children. I appreciate the company supporting my decision, and I’m truly excited about the challenge ahead of me to help us grow and win. I’m also looking forward to working closely with Jeff, who I admire and have great respect for. I owe so much to Mr. Hendrick and everyone at Hendrick Motorsports, and I’m ready for the next chapter,” Knaus said.


Chad Knaus Promoted to Vice President of Competition for Hendrick Motorsports Chad Knaus Promoted to Vice President of Competition for Hendrick Motorsports Reviewed by Unique Hiram on Wednesday, September 30, 2020 Rating: 5