NASCAR Daily News Headlines * December 11, 2008

Labonte Released From Petty Enterprises

Comments from 2000 NASCAR Sprint Cup Champion Bobby Labonte:
“In over 15 years of racing in the Sprint Cup Series, I can’t remember a time when the sport’s landscape looks as it does today. Saying that, Petty Enterprises and I had serious and very sincere discussions about what was best for myself and everyone involved at Petty Enterprises moving forward. These discussions culminated with us agreeing that moving in a separate direction will be the greatest way to reach our end goals. It was by no means an easy decision.

“I am, and will always be, very appreciative of what Richard Petty and the Petty family, every employee of Petty Enterprises and members of Boston Ventures did to invest in bettering my career the past three seasons.

“Moving forward, I’m very anxious to prepare for the 2009 season. I do not currently have a contract with any other team for 2009, but I am ready to explore all opportunities and form the next partnership in my career. I’ll continue to keep these matters private and will make the appropriate announcement and comments when my future plans are confirmed. I appreciate everyone’s continued support.”

Labonte has 21 Sprint Cup wins, 197 top-10 and 113 top-five finishes in his career. He has only raced for four different team owners in his career including his family's operation.

Speculation has Labonte going to the No. 41 car of Earnhardt-Ganassi Racing. Sources with-in the organization has admited to having informal discussions with Labonte and has stated that they would be interested in signing him, should he become available.

Revell Bails On NASCAR

Revell, an Elk Grove Village, Ill.-based division of Hobbico, blamed rising licensing costs that kept it from selling the kits at a profit. Revell actually has to pay three licensing fees for each car: to the car manufacturer, to NASCAR and to the driver/team involved.

"It was a very frustrating and very difficult decision,” said Mike Brezette, Revell’s vice president of marketing. “It really comes down to plain old economics. We’ve run in the red with the NASCAR licenses for the last three years at least.”(latimes.com)

Laid-off Crewman Sues Roush

He initially worked in the Truck shop at Roush as well as on the pit crew for the No. 16 Nationwide team. He was then transferred to Roush’s ARCA team in April 2008. At the time he was laid off Nov. 10 , 2008, his base salary was $1,050 per week, according to the complaint. He also was eligible for bonuses depending on the performance of the team and the pit crew.

Bailey is asking for $63,000 – his salary from Nov. 10, 2008 through Dec. 31, 2009 – and for whatever bonuses it is determined he deserves. Roush Fenway Racing President Geoff Smith confirmed that Bailey had been laid off as part of a reduction in the company work force but declined further comment.(scenedaily.com)