Kevin Harvick, the 2014 NASCAR Cup Series champion, fully endorsed Richard Childress Racing's (RCR) decision to fire Kyle Busch's crew chief Jim Pohlman after the Talladega Superspeedway race, stating the performance was not good enough despite Busch scoring his first top-10 finish of the season.
Kevin Harvick, the 2014 NASCAR Cup Series champion, has voiced strong support for Richard Childress Racing’s (RCR) decision to part ways with Kyle Busch’s crew chief, Jim Pohlman, following the Talladega Superspeedway race. In his weekly podcast, Harvick stated he would have made the same call if he were in management.
What happened at Talladega?
According to a report from Motorsport.com, Kyle Busch achieved his first top-10 finish of the 2025 season at Talladega on April 27, 2025, placing 10th. However, that result was not enough to save Pohlman’s job. Immediately after the race, RCR announced the return of Andy Street to lead Busch’s team, a role he previously held in 2023.
Harvick: The relationship was strained
Speaking on his weekly podcast, Harvick said: “I heard enough from the race to know this partnership wasn’t going to work. Even with the first top-10 finish, it was clear there was a lack of chemistry between Busch and Pohlman.” He added, “If I were in management, I would have made the same decision.”
How has Busch performed this season?
Before Talladega, Busch’s performance was disappointing, with no top-10 finishes in the first 10 races. His best result was 11th place at Phoenix. Harvick considered this decline unacceptable for a driver of Busch’s caliber, a two-time Cup champion.
Who is Andy Street?
Andy Street is not a new face at RCR. He worked with Busch during the 2023 season, securing one win and several strong finishes. He now returns to lead the No. 8 team, aiming to salvage the season. Harvick believes this move could restore stability to the team.
Will the change succeed?
Analysts suggest that the crew chief change could be key to improving Busch’s performance, especially with upcoming short oval tracks that suit his driving style. However, Harvick warned that results won’t come overnight.
What does this mean for RCR?
RCR is under significant pressure this season, with both the No. 3 car (Austin Dillon) and the No. 8 car (Kyle Busch) struggling. The team hopes Street will revitalize Busch’s team, while Pohlman’s future remains uncertain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Kyle Busch's crew chief fired?
Jim Pohlman was fired due to poor performance and a lack of chemistry with Busch, despite a top-10 finish at Talladega. Kevin Harvick believes the decision was correct.
Who is the new crew chief for Kyle Busch?
Andy Street, who previously worked with Busch in 2023 and secured one win, returns to lead the No. 8 team starting from the Dover race.
Will the crew chief change improve Busch's results?
Analysts believe the change could boost performance, especially on short tracks. However, Harvick cautioned that results will take time.
Sources
- Motorsport.com — Kevin Harvick says he would have fired Kyle Busch’s crew chief too
