2019 NHRA "Silly Season"

Announcements this morning on both competitionplus.com, nhra.com and others that Courtney Force is walking away from driving immediately but will remain involved in the sport.

According to an article in todays Orange County Register newspaper: "According to sources, the decision to retire was made midway through the 2018 season. However, sponsor Advance Auto Parts and its ad agency opted to remain silent until Thursday."
I wonder if this explains what appeared to be a lack of sharpness and consistency in the second half of the 2018 season, especially during the Countdown?
The article goes on to say,
"...many believe she and husband Graham Rahal wanted to spend more time together."