Spire Motorsports has tapped Doug Duchardt, a veteran NASCAR industry executive, to serve as the President of the rapidly growing organization, with immediate effect.
In 2024, the organization will further expand its NASCAR Cup Series program to include three full-time entries, while also taking on a multi-truck program in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series - after purchasing the assets of Kyle Busch Motorsports.
The addition of an industry veteran who boasts nearly three decades of experience, as Duchardt does, allows Spire Motorsports to use previously fostered connections to bolster its relationship with Chevrolet, as well as crucial partners Hendrick Motorsports and Trackhouse Racing.
"As Spire Motorsports continues to grow, it's important to add impactful personnel at every level. I've known and had a close relationship with Doug Duchardt for nearly 20 years," said Spire Motorsports co-owner, Jeff Dickerson. "Doug's resume and body of work speaks for itself. Having him on staff raises our competitive bar immediately. He brings a results-based work ethic to our team that will pay immediate dividends."
"Our expectations for the impact his presence will make across our entire organization cannot be overstated. He has a rich history with General Motors which has resulted in close and deep personal relationships at the manufacturer level and positions him firmly at the intersection of our crucial relationships with both Hendrick Motorsports and Trackhouse Racing.”
From 2003 to 2005, Duchardt served as the Director of General Motors Racing, leaving him responsible for all racing initiatives in North America including NASCAR, IndyCar, NHRA, Corvette GT LeMans, SCCA Cadillac, and more.
Most recently, Duchardt comes from Chip Ganassi Racing, where he served as both Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Executive Consultant of the organization, which saw him take on a large role with an organization synonymous with motorsports history.
As an executive consultant, Duchardt served as the liaison between Chip Ganassi Racing and General Motors in establishing the team's European facility for Cadillac’s sportscar world endurance program. Additionally, Duchardt served as the strategist for Tony Kanaan in the 2022 Indianapolis 500, earning a third-place finish.
In his time as Chief Executive Officer, he was responsible for all components of competition and business development across the entire organization, including NASCAR, IndyCar, and IMSA, as well as navigating and finalizing negotiations with corporate partners.
“I have been impressed with Spire Motorsports’ incremental growth since its inception,” said Duchardt. “It’s an exciting opportunity to join the team as we work toward increased competitiveness in the NASCAR Cup Series and NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series. Walking into the facility you can feel the enthusiasm and energy. I am also looking forward to working with my previous teammates at Chevrolet, Trackhouse Racing, and Hendrick Motorsports as Spire prepares for the 2024 season.”
Before his time with Chip Ganassi Racing, Duchardt spent 12 years with Hendrick Motorsports, where he was first Vice President of Development before transitioning to Executive Vice President and General Manager, where he directed all phases of competition.
In his newfound role with Spire Motorsports, Duchardt will be responsible for oversight across the entire organization including competition, personnel, and business operations.
Image Credit: Tyson Gifford, Racing America
