It seems like the new norm in NASCAR is to sign drivers on a one-year basis. Erik Jones just reupped with Joe Gibbs Racing for a single year as another driver was just handed a one-year contract on Tuesday.

When Paul Menard unexpectedly announced his retirement from a full time gig in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series on Tuesday morning, the team (Wood Brothers) already had his replacement lined up.

Matt DiBenedetto will race the No. 21 Ford for the 2020 season as Menard went to the team and not only told them that he’s stepping away, he said that they should hire DiBenedetto as his successor too.

The team obliged.

But, not only did they listen to Menard and make the right hire, they showed just how much that they respect DiBenedetto too.

The Wood Brothers looked no where else. The list to replace Menard was a short one. It read Matt DiBenedetto and Matt DiBenedetto only. It’s the only direction that they went in.

Not only that, they will remain aligned with Team Penske and their three car organization. They will retain all of their sponsors as Menards, despite not having their driver race anymore, will stay on and keep DiBenedetto funded with other sponsors coming back to the team as well.

This was a deal that fell out of heaven for DiBenedetto. Shortly after finding out that he was losing his ride with Leavine Family Racing, Menard called DiBenedetto to tell him the news.

Not only would DiBenedetto land on his feet, he’d not have to bring any money and have a competitive ride lined up.

While the Wood Brothers have only won twice since Dale Jarrett’s 1991 trip to victory lane at Michigan, they have been much more competitive recently.

Ryan Blaney brought them back to the forefront. Menard, has kept them competitive with top 20’s. Now, DiBenedetto and his talent should keep them near the top 10. I mean, this is a playoff caliber car. DiBenedetto, is a playoff caliber driver just needing a break.

This could be a marriage made in heaven.