5:38 PM ET

  • Associated Press

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. —

Chastain, known as the “Melon Man” because he is an eighth-generation watermelon farmer, was basically inherited when Marks bought out Chip Ganassi Racing at the end of the 2021 season. Marks kept Chastain on the roster, which also includes Daniel Suarez, who was Trackhouse’s first driver.

“It’s taken a lot of years, a lot of hard work and sacrifice, plus a lot of help from a lot of people, but I can safely say I have found a home at Trackhouse Racing,” Chastain said. “There is nowhere in the world I would rather be and nothing I would rather do than race the No. 1 Chevrolet in NASCAR for Justin and the people at Trackhouse Racing.”

Trackhouse has now locked down both of its budding stars, as Suarez signed a long-term deal on Wednesday. Both drivers won their first career Cup races last season and qualified for the playoffs.

Chastain made it all the way to the championship finale and finished second to Joey Logano in the Cup standings. He used a video-game-style move that has since been banned by NASCAR to snatch the fourth and final spot in NASCAR’s championship race.

“Ross Chastain is the type of driver and type of person we want representing Trackhouse Racing, our employees and our corporate partners,” Marks said. “You saw what Ross did with us in just our first year together and we think the future is even brighter. He brings a determination, dedication and commitment to his job on and off the track that uplifts everyone in our shop. I’m proud he is part of our organization.”