Rodney Childers Steps Down as Crew Chief of Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Team
In a surprising turn of events, veteran NASCAR crew chief Rodney Childers has stepped down from his role with Spire Motorsports’ No. 7 Cup Series team after just nine races into the 2025 season. The move comes amid a season of change and shifting dynamics within the organization.
Childers joined Spire Motorsports in what was considered one of the most high-profile crew chief acquisitions in recent memory. After an illustrious run with Stewart-Haas Racing—most notably paired with 2014 Cup Series champion Kevin Harvick—Childers was tapped to lead the No. 7 Chevrolet team in 2025. At the time of the announcement, Corey LaJoie was expected to be his driver. However, a shakeup at Spire late in the 2024 season saw Justin Haley take over the driving duties.
Sources suggest that multiple internal changes, including the departure of longtime engineer Robert “Cheddar” Smith, may have contributed to mounting friction within the team. With early-season struggles and a lack of chemistry reported between key personnel, the foundation for success never fully materialized.
Though Spire Motorsports has yet to release an official statement regarding the reasons behind Childers’ departure, the news has left many in the NASCAR community stunned. Known for his leadership, technical expertise, and calm demeanor atop the pit box, Childers was expected to play a key role in helping Spire become a more competitive organization.
It remains unclear who will take over crew chief duties for the No. 7 team moving forward. Justin Haley, meanwhile, will continue as the driver as the team works to stabilize and refocus heading into the summer stretch of the Cup Series schedule.
Childers’ next move is yet to be announced, but his experience makes him one of the most sought-after figures in
