Overview

• Spire Motorsports parted ways with veteran crew chief Rodney Childers on April 23, 2025, citing issues with team chemistry and communication rather than on-track performance.
• Ryan Sparks, previously the director of competition, has been named the new crew chief for Justin Haley's No. 7 team, taking on dual roles within the organization.
• During pre-race inspections at Talladega, Haley's car failed twice, leading to the ejection of car chief Doug Powers and the loss of pit stall selection for the race.
• The No. 7 team has struggled with consistency this season, achieving only one top-10 finish in the first nine races, and now faces further instability following the leadership changes.
• Childers, a 2014 Cup Series Championship-winning crew chief with 40 career wins, was viewed as a transformative hire, making his departure a significant setback for Spire Motorsports.