NASCAR Monster Cup driver Chris Buescher secured his short-term future by agreeing to a multi-year extension with JTG Daugherty Racing on Friday.
The move was significant because several veteran drivers, such as former Cup champions Kurt Busch and Matt Kenseth, need rides for next season.
"I'm happy to continue driving for JTG Daugherty Racing," Buescher said. "We built our team from the ground up this season, and I'm really thankful to be able to continue that in the 2018 season and beyond. We have so many great partners on board, and I'm really looking forward to building upon that."
Buescher's new team has made significant progress in the last month. Buescher, in the No. 37 Chevrolet Camaro, finished a season-high sixth in last week's race at Michigan International Speedway and has two top-10 finishes in his last four starts going into Saturday night's event at Bristol Motor Speedway.
Buescher, 24, is 25th in the points standings. With only two spots remaining, Buescher needs a win in the final three regular-season races to get into the playoffs for the second consecutive season.
"Chris has been a great addition to the JTG Daugherty Racing family," team owner Tad Geschickter said. "We're extremely proud of what he has accomplished this year. We've learned a lot from him and the team. ... We're truly blessed and really excited for the future with Chris."
Buescher will return to his home track, Texas Motor Speedway, for the AAA Texas 500 on Nov. 5.
