Fastenal (18 races) is scheduled to be the sponsor at the following races in 2016:
Daytona, Sprint Unlimited - 2/13
Daytona - 2/21, Lenox Industrial Tools
Las Vegas - 3/6, Armstrong Industries Hand Tools
Phoenix - 3/13, Lenox Industrial Tools
Auto Club - 3/20, Kimberly-Clark Pro
Martinsville - 4/3, Milwaukee
Charlotte - 5/29, Wypall / Patriotic
Sonoma - 6/26, Lenox Industrial Tools
New Hampshire - 7/17, Rustoleum
Bristol - 8/20, Bryan Clauson tribute
Darlington - 9/4, Darrell Waltrip throwback
Chicago - 9/18, Wypall
New Hampshire - 9/25, Milwaukee
Dover - 10/2, Milwaukee
Kansas - 10/16, Lenox
Martinsville - 10/30, Louisville
Texas - 11/6, 3M
Homestead - 11/20, Lenox

Zest (6 races) is scheduled to be the primary sponsor at the following races in 2016:
Texas - 4/9
Bristol - 4/17
Kansas - 5/7
Michigan - 8/28
Richmond 9/10
Talladega - 10/23

Fifth Third Bank (5 races) is scheduled to be the primary sponsor at the following races in 2016:
Richmond - 4/24
Talladega - 5/1
Michigan - 6/12
Daytona - 7/2
Kentucky - 7/9, Stand Up To Cancer

SunnyD (4 races) is scheduled to be the primary sponsor at the following races in 2016:
Dover - 5/15
Pocono - 6/5
Indy - 7/24
Charlotte - 10/8

Races that Ford EcoBoost was the primary sponsor in 2016:
Atlanta - 2/28
Charlotte, Sprint Showdown - 5/20
Watkins Glen - 8/7

Races that Roush Performance was the primary sponsor in 2016:
Pocono - 7/31
Phoenix 11/13

Roush Fenway awarded two MarCom Awards: Roush Fenway Racing has been recognized for outstanding achievement by the prestigious MarCom Awards. The team has been awarded a pair of MarCom Platinum Awards for its marketing and communications efforts in 2016. The organization received a Platinum Award in the category of 'Social Media Campaign' for its innovative #RFRTruckin social campaign. In addition, Roush Fenway was awarded a Platinum Award in the 'Social Media Branding' category for its Social 'Jack' Icon program. The team also garnered Honorable Mention for its launch of the SunnyD program this season, in the Communications/PR Program category. MarCom Awards is an international creative competition that recognizes outstanding achievement by marketing and communications professionals. The awards received over 6,500 entries this year, with only 17 percent awarded Platinum status by earning the highest distinction as 'the most outstanding entries in the competition.' Platinum Winners are recognized for 'their excellence in terms of quality, creativity and resourcefulness.'
The #RFRTruckin program, which provided fans a 'behind the scenes' look at a NASCAR 'road trip,' garnered instant media attention and earned over 23 million organic impressions. The 'Social Icon' program represented team co-owner Jack Roush's iconic hat and leveraged local market integration, partner programs, cause marketing and merchandise licensing. The SunnyD 'NASCAR' program, which featured the NASCAR remake of the classic 'purple stuff' commercial, generated more than 8.5 million impressions for the brand, produced more than three million video views and gained national media exposure.
Roush Fenway Racing has now won a total of four MarCom Platinum Awards since 2011, when it took home its first Platinum for the famed 'Ricky vs. Trevor' campaign. The team also brought home a Platinum Award for its 'Let Ricky Race' campaign in 2013, as well as Gold Awards for '25 Winning Years', 'RFRDriven' and the Pillow Pets NASCAR Launch.(Roush Fenway Racing)(12-11-2016)

Newmark discusses Roush Fenway's plans: The decline in performance at Roush Fenway Racing is best expressed in one stark statistic. In 2005, half the Chase field consisted of Roush Fenway drivers -- when there were only 10 drivers in the Chase. In 2016, there were no RFR entries in a 16-driver Chase field. How does that happen? RFR has been asking itself the same question while attempting to right the ship. Once the dominant organization in the Ford camp, Roush will drop to third in the pecking order upon the arrival of Stewart-Haas Racing in 2017.
RFR President Steve Newmark called the downsizing at RFR a strategic move - albeit an extremely tough decision. The company considered more than a dozen options before arriving at its current organizational chart. "The whole goal and the whole objective of doing whatever we did is to make sure we would improve our performance and make our race cars faster," Newmark told Motorsport.com. "Obviously, there are different opinions on how you do that and ultimately what we decided is we need to be more of an engineering, laser-focussed company. We've always been good at production and manufacturing. I think sometimes you fall back on what you're comfortable with.
Over the last two weeks, close to 30 Roush employees have been displaced - some in house, some such as veteran crew chief Bob Osborne who had been overseeing Chris Buescher's campaign at Front Row Motorsports. Together, the pair made the Chase. Buescher, Roush's most talented prospect in its driver stable, is now on loan to JTG Daugherty Racing (along with a RFR charter) for 2017.
Roush Fenway Racing will continue its technical alliance with Bob Jenkins and Front Row Motorsports. Newmark says the multi-year deal with FRM is one of the best collaborations Roush has had over the years. Although it's unlikely that one of the RFR prospects will replace Buescher in the #34 Ford. "They have some great folks there and we''ll continue to work with them next year," Newmark said. "We have dialogue with Bob quite a bit, but I don't think that (driver development) will be part of the relationship next year." That's not to say that Ryan Reed or Darrell "Bubba" Wallace couldn't see seat time in a Cup car in 2017. However, Newmark says the company's immediate focus remains on getting Bayne and Stenhouse up to speed.(Motorsport)(12-8-2016)

Reiser out as general manager at Roush Fenway UPDATE: Robbie Reiser was relieved of his duties as general manager at Roush Fenway Racing on Tuesday, Motorsport.com has learned. Reiser, 53, has been with the company for 17 seasons, first as a crew chief and eventually graduating to a managerial role. Reiser has been offered a position in the car production side of RFR, but he has yet to decide where his future lies. Calls to Roush Fenway Racing were not immediately returned. Neither Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Trevor Bayne or Greg Biffle finished inside the top 20 in the Sprint Cup standings this season. For the second year, there was not a Roush driver in the Chase.(Motorsport)(11-23-2016)
UPDATE: Robbie Reiser didn't really have a lot he wanted to say about his situation at Roush Fenway Racing. He was relieved of his duties as vice president of competition. But he's not going anywhere. He doesn't yet have a title or even a full job description for his next role as the team struggles to regain its footing. But he is as dedicated to doing his part to bring success as he was in 2003, when he won a NASCAR title as Matt Kenseth's crew chief, or in 2007, when he answered Jack Roush's call to lead the whole operation. And at this point in his life, the 53-year-old, second-generation racer from Allenton is OK with it all. "This is going to free me up for my family, to be able to spend some time with them," said Reiser, who has one son in college and twin boys in high school, one of them a dirt-bike racer he has rarely watched. Reiser's choice of words Thursday was interesting - he was "relieved" of his duties - because you have to believe there's a part of him that is relieved. He works hard, he's stubborn and he's not cut out to lose.(Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)(12-4-2016)

Chris Buescher to 2nd JTG Daughtery team? UPDATE 2: Greg Biffle's decision to leave Roush-Fenway Racing on Monday triggered a strange chain reaction that will include the slumping racing company loaning driver Chris Buescher to a rival manufacturer next season. Buescher will drive for a newly-created second Chevrolet team at JTG Daughtery Racing in 2017. Roush Fenway is expected to scuttle Biffle's #16 team, and that could make that team's charter available to the highest bidder - including the new JTG Daughtery entry. Despite fielding full-time teams for Biffle, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Trevor Bayne, Roush Fenway hasn't won a race since 2014. By loaning Buescher to JTG Daugherty next year, Ford Racing will be able to work on upgrades with Roush Fenway while keeping one of its young drivers under contract. "It was a mutual agreement," Biffle said. "It's been frustrating for everyone. I've been the one carrying the company banner. It just didn't get any better. I didn't see a light at the end of the tunnel, so I decided I'd rather do something else - even if it means not driving anymore. I owe Jack everything I've accomplished in this sport. Some things just run their course." Roush said Biffle was one of the anchors of his entire race team. "I don't have the words to say what Greg has meant to this organization," Roush said in a team release. "He is a true racer who has always exhibited a will to win and an intense passion for speed. For almost two decades Greg has given us an opportunity to run up front and compete for wins. Greg exemplifies what every owner hopes for in a driver and I'm extremely thankful for having him as part of our organization."(Florida Times Union)(11-21-2016)
UPDATE: From Bob Pockrass Twitter: "Tad Geschickter says nothing done yet as far as plans for second JTG car next year."(11-22-2016)
UPDATE 2: Roush Fenway Racing Announces 2017 NASCAR Cup Plans: Roush Fenway Racing has announced its 2017 plans for the NASCAR Cup Series that will see the organization field a two-car Cup operation next season, with drivers Trevor Bayne and Ricky Stenhouse Jr. piloting the #6 and #17 Ford Fusions, respectively, in NASCAR's highest series. In addition, Kevin Kidd and Tommy Wheeler will lead Roush Fenway's overall competition efforts going forward. Kidd will assume the role of Competition Director, and Wheeler will serve as the team's Operations Director. The team will lease its #16 NASCAR Charter and driver Chris Buescher to JTG Racing in 2017. "We have been able to shore up our plans for 2017 and we feel that this will continue to move us in a direction that will yield improved performance and results," said Roush Fenway co-owner Jack Roush. "We saw improvement in our cars and made substantial gains in our performance at times last season, and we will continue to build on that by maintaining a robust engineering group in order to take the next step by consistently running up front."
The #6 team will once again be led by veteran crew chief Matt Puccia. Brian Pattie, who was the crew chief for the #16 Cup Series team last season, will transition to crew chief of the #17 team. Nick Sandler, who served as the #17 crew chief the last two seasons, has been named Director of Engineering. Robbie Reiser, who has played an integral role on the competition side at Roush Fenway Racing for a number of years, will remain with the organization in a yet to be determined position. Kidd has served as Roush Fenway's Cup Team Manager - supervising all at-track operations - for the previous two seasons, after coming over from Joe Gibbs Racing where he worked as a crew chief for the previous half decade. He holds a mechanical engineering degree from Virginia Tech, and has worked as a lead engineer for multiple teams and drivers. Wheeler, who holds a B.S. in physics from Davidson College, joined Roush Fenway in 2009. A 20-plus year veteran of the sport, he has served in many capacities for the team, including as the team's production director since 2011, overseeing the building and production of all of the organization's Cup and XFINITY Series cars. (RFR)(11-29-2016)
AND Chris Buescher will drive a second car for JTG Daugherty in 2017, the team stated Tuesday. "We can confirm at this time that JTG Daugherty Racing is currently in the process of starting a second team in the NASCAR premier series," JTG Daugherty Racing team owner Tad Geschickter said in a statement. "We would also like to confirm and welcome Chris Buescher to the team as our driver for the second car. More details will follow." Said Buescher, 24, in a statement: "I can confirm that I have signed to race for JTG Daugherty Racing as they expand to a two-car team in the NASCAR premier series in 2017. I'm thankful for the opportunity and look forward to competing for a spot in the Chase. We'll have more details at a later date."(NBC Sports)(11-29-2016)

Stenhouse, Jr forms World of Outlaws Craftsman Sprint Car team: Sprint car veteran and 99-time World of Outlaw Craftsman Sprint Car Series winner Joey Saldana has found a new home for the 2017 racing season. Saldana will drive the Elk Grove Ford/Roth Investments #17 for the newly-formed Stenhouse Jr.-Wood Racing team. Owned by NASCAR driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Matt Wood, Stenhouse Jr.-Wood Racing will compete full time on the World of Outlaws Craftsman Sprint Car Series tour in 2017. Saldana, who finished fifth in the World of Outlaws point standings in 2016, will be looking to improve that finish and earn his milestone 100th series victory. Tyler Swank, who led the Keneric Team to a Kings Royal victory in 2014, has been named crew chief of the #17 team. Swank, 39, and crew members will Adam Clark and Chris Bowe will field the team out of Saldana's Brownsburg, Ind., race shop. Wood's No. 17W team started the 2016 with late driver Bryan Clauson. Clauson's life tragically ended while leading the Belleville Midget Nationals in Belleville, Kansas in August. "A year ago Matt (Wood), Richard (Marshall of Priority Aviation) and I began forming a World of Outlaws team centered around Bryan Clauson driving. After Bryan's tragic crash we all kind of just laid low," said co-owner Stenhouse Jr. "A few weeks ago an opportunity came up to have a partnership with Matt, Dennis Roth, Richard and myself. With Joey driving the car, it was something I felt I couldn't pass up."(Stenhouse Jr. - Wood Racing)(11-29-2016)

Zest will not return to Roush Fenway: Zest announced Tuesday afternoon that they will not renew their sponsorship deal with Roush Fenway Racing:
"Since 2012, the Zest brand has enjoyed a successful relationship with Roush Feway Racing and the NASCAR community. We're proud to have been represented by drivers Ricky Stenhouse, Jr., Matt Kenseth and Chris Busescher during our successful sponsorship program.
We appreciate the support from NASCAR fans who welcomed and embraced our products over the past five years. Their loyalty had been key to the sccessful activation of our racing initiatives.
While we will no longer have a Zest car racing, we will continue to watch the races as fans and always cheer for the Roush Fenway Racing team, especially #17!"
(11-23-2016)

Stenhouse Jr. to Honor the Late Bryan Clauson at the Jason Leffler Classic: Ricky Stenhouse Jr. will return to his dirt-track roots this Thursday night as he drives the #39 for the newly formed Clauson-Marshall Racing at the Jason Leffler Classic at Wayne County Speedway to honor his late friend Bryan Clauson. "I'm always thrilled to race with Tim and this team. I value the friendship and passion he and Bryan have for racing," Stenhouse, Jr., commented. "This race means a lot to Bryan. The whole racing family comes together to remember an awesome guy and racer. I'm looking forward to representing this team and hope I can do even half of what Bryan could do in this car. Bryan's passing hasn't gotten easier, but it's been unbelievable to see the support of so many friends, family and fans. With them, I hope to continue Bryan's legacy and continue in his winning ways. It helps all of us and I'm glad to be a tiny part of it with this team." At Bristol earlier this year, the Olive Branch, Miss. native drove a Bryan Clauson Fastenal tribute scheme to a second-place finish after overcoming a two-lap deficit and a speeding penalty on pit road. The second-place finish tied his career best finish, also at Bristol in 2014. After the race on Thursday evening, Stenhouse will travel to Talladega Superspeedway for the Hellmann's 500.(RFR)(10-19-2016)

Roush Fenway campaign for breast cancer awareness in October: Roush Fenway Racing will again utilize its award-winning 'Driven' Marketing program in support of National Breast Cancer Awareness month in October. The 'Driven for a Cause' campaign will use various elements to highlight cause awareness and support throughout the month. All of Roush Fenway's race cars will carry special 'pink ribbon Driven logos' in each of the month's events. In addition, Greg Biffle will run a special pink Ford EcoBoost paint scheme on his #16 Ford Fusion at Charlotte Motor Speedway on Oct. 8. Other Roush Fenway Racing Fords will feature special pink numbers during the Charlotte event. During the month of October, team owner Jack Roush will don a pink 'Driven for a Cause' shirt on NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race days in an effort to bring more awareness to the cause. At Roush Fenway's Annual Fall Fan Appreciation Day on Thursday, October 6, fans will be invited to participate in the pink-themed 'Driven for a Cause' selfie-booth, complete with pink props. Fans who utilize the social media platform Snap Chat and are onsite for Fan Day will also have the opportunity to use a special geofilter with the 'Driven for a Cause' logo. All participants are encouraged to share these photos with family and friends on social media using the #DrivenforaCause hashtag. Roush Fenway is offering 'Driven for a Cause' merchandise, with a percentage of the proceeds going to Carolina Breast Friends.(Roush Fenway Racing)(10-3-2016)

Bryan Clauson Racing will continue: The legacy of Bryan Clauson Racing will continue under a new name thanks to Bryan Clauson's father, Tim Clauson, and team co-owner Richard Marshall. The team will now be known as Clauson-Marshall Racing banner and will make its debut during the upcoming USAC National Midget Series Jason Leffler Memorial at Wayne County Speedway in Wayne City, Ill., on Oct. 20. Current NASCAR Sprint Cup Series competitor Ricky Stenhouse Jr. will drive for the team on Oct. 20. Bryan Clauson died Aug. 7 after being involved in a violent crash the previous evening during the Belleville Midget Nationals at the Belleville (Kan.) High Banks. Bryan Clauson and Marshall formed Bryan Clauson Racing in 2008 with the idea of providing their knowledge and experience with drivers and families attempting to navigate their way through the sport while at the same time providing Clauson with an outlet to pursue the venue of motorsports that he loved most, midget and sprint car racing. Along the way, the team met many of its goals including a pair of USAC National Midget championships and a USAC Sprint Car title along with three USAC Driver of the Year awards while also helping in the development of many younger drivers making their way through the ranks. Bryan Clauson Racing had the honor of having some of the nation's top drivers race out of its stable including the likes of Tyler Courtney, Shane Golobic, Spencer Bayston, Jason Johnson, Kyle Larson and Stenhouse, among others. As such, it is only fitting that the Clauson-Marshall Racing debut at the Jason Leffler Classic will feature Stenhouse at the wheel. "I'm always thrilled to race with Tim and this team. I value the friendship and passion he and Bryan have for racing," Stenhouse said. "This race means a lot to Bryan. The whole racing family comes together to remember an awesome guy and racer."(National Speed Sport News)(10-1-2016)

New pit crew coach at Roush Fenway: Roush Fenway Racing has decided to reassign longtime pit crew coach Andy Ward, replacing him with Scott Bowen, a current RFR employee and an ex-pit crew member. Ward has been at RFR for many years and has produced some very good pit crews. Roush Fenway Racing released the following statement regarding the move: "We continuously evaluate our race team operations at Roush Fenway, and as part of a mid-season restructuring we have implemented a change in the department structure with our pit crew teams. We have placed Scott Bowen, who previously was our head of purchasing, in charge of our pit crew operations. Scott is a longtime employee of Roush Fenway, and worked as an over-the-wall pit crew member for several years. We believe this change will prove beneficial in our continued effort to improve on-track performance."(PitTalks/NASCAR.com)(9-29-2016)

Stenhouse Jr. ties career best finish: Ricky Stenhouse Jr. drove his #17-Bryan Clauson Fastenal tribute Ford to a second-place finish after overcoming a two-lap deficit and a speeding penalty on pit road. The second-place finish tied his career best finish of second at Bristol in 2014. "It wasn't from a lack of hard work and being lucky a few times," Stenhouse said. "We really wanted to get this Bryan Clauson tribute car in victory lane. It just wasn't meant to be today. We made our car a lot faster throughout the race and came from two laps down to get back on the lead lap. We missed some wrecks and gave it all we had. I thought we were matching the No. 4 car there lap for lap, but he got away from us and we had to restart sixth there on that last restart, but it was an honor to drive this car. This place was pretty packed last night so thanks to all the fans and thanks to all the fans that were able to stay around. I thought the track was really good. You could run the bottom. You could run the top. We just wanted one more spot."(RFR)(8-22-2016)

Stenhouse Jr. and Larson to honor Clauson at Bristol: The outpouring of support for Bryan Clauson continued at Bristol Motor Speedway on Friday, with NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and #42-Kyle Larson honoring the memory of their close friend with special helmets and paint schemes. Clauson died at age 27 from injuries suffered during an Aug. 6 accident in the Belleville (Kansas) Midget Nationals. Clauson got his start in NASCAR racing as a development driver for Chip Ganassi Racing, but after 26 starts in the XFINITY series, with a best finish of fifth at Kentucky, he returned to open wheels and established himself as one of the all-time best in USAC competition.
In Saturday night's Bass Pro Shops NRA Night Race, both Stenhouse and Larson will wear helmets sporting the initials "BC" in honor of their friend. With the blessing of sponsor Fastenal, Stenhouse's car will feature a paint scheme reminiscent of the one Clauson ran seven years ago.
"Bryan was a great friend of Kyle's and mine," Stenhouse, 28, said on Friday at Bristol. "I moved to North Carolina, and he was already there. Even though he was younger, I kind of always looked at him as an older brother, because he kind of did everything before I did. He let me move in with him, and we had a lot of fun in North Carolina. He showed me the ropes of stock car racing, and then, obviously, he was the best there was at running sprint cars, so to be able to run his paint scheme. His family is super excited, and we are, too, at our team." On Aug. 11 at the Knoxville (Iowa) Nationals, Stenhouse led the field on a parade lap in the winged sprint car Clauson was to have driven in the competition. Larson and NASCAR Camping World Truck Series driver Rico Abreu were on hand as competitors during the off week. Tony Stewart and Jeff Gordon were there to support charitable efforts, which included an auction on behalf of the Clauson family on Aug. 12. Gordon flew the Clausons back to Indiana on his plane that afternoon. On Saturday night, Stewart's sprint car driver, Donny Schatz, was five feet short of his 10th Knoxville Nationals title, finishing second to race-winner Jason Johnson.(NASCAR Wire Service)(8-20-2016)

Stenhouse Jr. to Honor Clauson with Special Scheme at Bristol: #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. will pay tribute to the late Bryan Clauson this weekend at Bristol Motor Speedway by running the Fastenal scheme that Clauson raced during the 2008 NASCAR XFINITY Series season. "It will be a huge honor to run the same Fastenal scheme that Bryan raced in 2008," Stenhouse said. "This past week has been difficult for many but it has been great to see the racing community join together to support Bryan's family, friends and Lauren. Bryan was one of my best friends and hopefully we can 'parked it' in victory lane on Saturday for Bryan." In 2008, Fastenal served as the primary partner for Clauson's #40 Chip Ganassi machine. In his 21 starts, he scored one pole award at Daytona International Speedway and one top-five and two top-10 finishes.(Roush Fenway Racing), see an image of the car on the #17 team paint schemes page.(8-15-2016)

Stenhouse, Jr. honoring Clauson at Knoxville: Knoxville Raceway tweeted Tuesday, that "[Bryan Clauson]'s 17w will Pace the Field on his qualifying night Thur with his best friend, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. behind the wheel.".
The 56th Annual 5-hour ENERGY Knoxville Nationals kick off Wednesday at Knoxville Raceway and run through Saturday.(8-10-2016)

Fifth Third Bank Raises $145K For Stand Up To Cancer : During the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) race at Kentucky Speedway on July 9, 2016, Ricky Stenhouse Jr.'s #17 Fifth Third Ford was adorned with 53 names of brave individuals who are currently fighting or have fought a battle with cancer. Many of these names belonged to Fifth Third employees and their loved ones. As a result, Fifth Third is proud to announce that over $145,000 will be donated to Stand Up To Cancer. "It was an honor to help Fifth Third raise funds and bring awareness to a great cause," Stenhouse said. "We went to Fifth Third's headquarters in Cincinnati on Thursday leading into the race weekend and got to meet with a lot of the employees who submitted names and individuals whose names appeared on the car. It was great to spend time with Willie (Rhodarmer), whose name was above my passenger window, and her family. Willie is a brave woman who is fighting cancer but still has a lot of spunk. Cancer affects so many so it's awesome to see the support of Fifth Third to Stand Up To Cancer." A longtime supporter of Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C), Fifth Third Bank, in partnership with Ricky Stenhouse Jr., reached out to NASCAR fans asking them to #StandUpwithRicky and honor a friend or family member who has fought or is in the fight against cancer by sharing their story. For every story shared with the hashtag #StandUpwithRicky, Fifth Third Bank made a donation to Stand Up To Cancer. Fifth Third will also continue its #howifight campaign through December 31. From running a 10K to bringing dinner to a neighbor fighting cancer, Fifth Third is encouraging everyone to share how they fight using #howifight. Fifth Third Bank will donate $1 per eligible hashtag usage to Stand Up To Cancer up to $500,000. You can see how people fight and get full details at 53.com/howifight. To date, Fifth Third Bank has donated over $6.3 million to Stand Up To Cancer.(Roush Fenway Racing)(7-27-2016)

SunnyD renews sponsorship with Roush Fenway, Stenhouse: You will find no "purple stuff" in the #17 team's cooler at Roush Fenway Racing, as the team has announced a multi-year extension with SunnyD as a primary partner on the #17 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Ford with driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. The iconic brand has served as the primary partner for Stenhouse in multiple races this season, including this weekend at the famed Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. "We are very excited to have SunnyD extend its partnership on the #17," said Stenhouse. "It's a great brand and we have had a lot of fun this year promoting their product. In addition to the extension, SunnyD will serve as the primary for Stenhouse in the October Sprint Cup race at Charlotte and in the NASCAR XFINITY Race in Phoenix later this season. This season, Roush Fenway and SunnyD have teamed together in several unique social programs and promotions. Stenhouse and teammate Chris Buescher, along with FOX personalities Kaitlyn Vincie and Andrew Doud, recreated the classic "Purple Stuff" SunnyD commercial.(Roush Fenway)(7-22-2016)

Stenhouse to run special Stand up to Cancer scheme: Fifty-three names of brave individuals who are currently fighting or have fought a battle with cancer will be featured on the #17 Fifth Third Ford for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Kentucky. A longtime supporter of Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C), Fifth Third Bank, in partnership with Ricky Stenhouse Jr., reached out to NASCAR fans asking them to #StandUpwithRicky and honor a friend or family member who has fought or is in the fight against cancer by sharing their story. For every story shared with the hashtag #StandUpwithRicky, Fifth Third Bank made a donation to Stand Up To Cancer up to $20,000.
"I'm honored to be a part of this campaign to raise funds and awareness for a great cause," said Stenhouse. "I don't know anyone whose life has not been affected by cancer in one way or another. This car has 53 names on it, but it represents millions fighting the battle every day."
In addition to the money donated during the #StandUpwithRicky campaign, Fifth Third will be donating $530 for every lap Stenhouse makes at the Quaker State 400 race. Fifth Third will also continue its #howifight campaign through December 31. From running a 10K to bringing dinner to a neighbor fighting cancer, Fifth Third is encouraging everyone to share how they fight using #howifight. Fifth Third Bank will donate $1 per eligible hashtag usage to Stand Up To Cancer up to $500,000. You can see how people fight and get full details at 53.com/howifight. To date, Fifth Third Bank has donated over $6.2 million to Stand Up To Cancer.
"With cancer impacting so many, we asked ourselves, 'Could a bank help in the fight against this disease?' " Maria Veltre, executive vice president and chief marketing officer for Fifth Third Bank, said. "That was more than three years ago, and we've proven since that we can make a difference with the help of our customers, employees and members of our communities, and now leveraging the power of celebrity with Ricky Stenhouse Jr. With this campaign we want to highlight all the ways that we help fight every day."(RFR), see image of the scheme on the #17 Teams Schemes page.(7-7-2016)

Former US Army Officer to serve as #17 Team Rep: In honor of Independence Day, Jason McKay will be the #17 Roush Fenway Racing team representative during the pre-race ceremonies for Saturday night's Coke Zero 400 at Daytona International Speedway where he will line up amongst 150 military members to hold the American Flag during invocation and the national anthem. McKay, who graduated from the United States Military Academy in 2007 and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Army as an Infantry Officer, is part of the engineering department at Roush Fenway Racing but serves as second gasman for the #17 team on raceday.(RFR)(7-2-2016)

Drivers hopeful new rules mean better racing at Michigan: Optimism remains high for the lower downforce rules package in place for Sunday's FireKeepers Casino 400 at Michigan International Speedway. "Well, I think that we made a pretty good step forward with the move we made from the 2015 to the 2016 package," said Scott Miller, NASCAR vice president of competition. "For aerodynamics in making more competitive racing and closer competition, more passes for the lead. In most cases all the metrics we looked at have been better in those areas. So this is just another step toward, again, creating closer competition and great racing that the fans and the media and everybody wants to see. We want to see that really bad, and I think this direction has been something that's been embraced by the drivers, and actually we've worked together with them to land here and try this for this year as a potential way to move forward with closer competition."
Friday's practice and qualifying sessions saw higher speeds through both the corners and down the straightaways with average speeds topping 200 mph. However, while reaction has been mostly favorable, there is still much to be observed before gauging whether the rules are successfully reaching goals.
"And as far as today, I think it's difficult to visually see the difference, but when you look at the data from the cars, the speed trace is significantly different, the mid corner speeds are down a lot, the entry speeds are up a little," Miller explained. "And from some of the driver comments, having to use the brakes pretty hard and maybe even thinking about needing brake cooling and everything at a big track like this is a departure from where we've been before, and we're really hoping that those things actually produce a really, really good race on Sunday."
But as of now, it's still very much a guessing game. "What I'm anticipating is hopefully a lot of slipping and sliding; a loss of momentum, and the ability to stack up some guys and to get a big run from third, fourth, fifth on back," Kurt Busch said. "That's what we hope we see and that we don't have a leader that just gets out there and then we're not able to chase him down. And then the restarts are going to be that much more exciting because of the lack of downforce and how stable will the cars be side-by-side? Nobody knows that yet."(Motor Racing Network)
AND NASCAR Sprint Cup owner Jack Roush was not happy with the series' decision to use new rules to the aerodynamic package to further reduce downforce and sideforce for this weekend's FireKeepers Casino 400 race at Michigan International Speedway. "It's different from what it was, no doubt," said the 74-year-old Roush of the new rules package. "Nobody had been on the race track with this package before. Everybody is struggling to find out where the sensitive adjustments are. The car has not been as loose as we expected. We thought that the problem would be flying out from underneath of you, loose on exit and entry. The entry has been a little bit of a problem, but the exit and center has not been a bigger problem than normal." Roush's three-car team of Ricky Stenhouse Jr. (12th), Trevor Bayne (13th) and Greg Biffle (18th) all qualified outside the top-10 Friday.(Detroit News)(6-12-2016)

Ford working with Roush to improve: Ford Performance boss Dave Pericak is convinced Roush Fenway Racing will soon return to victory lane. The legendary Ford NASCAR team has not won a race since [Sonoma in 2014]. Team owner Jack Roush and his current Cup drivers Biffle, Trevor Bayne and Ricky Stenhouse Jr. are as dedicated as ever to turning things around, said Pericak, who took over as global director of Ford Performance from Jamie Allison last year. "I've been in the job for over a year and I've said we've been going to fix Roush," said Pericak, chief engineer of the Ford Mustang from 2008-2015. "The cars this year have speed in them but the team has had trouble executing on pit road. I think they've definitely ... shown a trend of improvement."
"As it is today, Jack Roush is not happy about the situation," said Pericak, who will leave Tuesday for France to oversee the Ford GT40's return to the 24 Hours of Le Mans sports car classic. "But he's 100% committed to improving the team and his spirits are high."
Pericak will be at MIS [Friday] to observe NASCAR's new lower down force package for the track. "It will be a wait and see thing," said Pericak of the aerodynamic package which NASCAR believes will promote closer and better racing with more passing. "I think we are headed in the right direction and we're hoping for better racing. At the end of the day, I think it allows drivers to drive the car." Ford drivers have been using a state-of-the-art simulator in Charlotte, N.C., running the lower down force package for MIS.(Detroit Free Press)(6-10-2016)

SunnyD back on the #17 at Pocono: SunnyD is back on the #17 Ford this weekend in Pocono. With that, driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. is launching a campaign to have his fans "Share a SunnyD" with a friend. By tagging a friend on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram using the hashtag #ShareASunnyD, fans will enter themselves and a friend to win special SunnyD prize packs. The SunnyD six days of giveaways begin Tuesday afternoon and will culminate in the Axalta "We Paint Winners" 400 at Pocono Raceway. Prizes include SunnyD beverages, hats, koozies and lanyards to name a few. "I'm excited to head to Pocono with SunnyD on our car for the second time this season," said Stenhouse. "They're a really fun brand to be aligned with and everything they're doing this week with the fans is really cool." Roush Fenway Racing has added a NASCAR twist to a 90's commercial classic, remaking the iconic 'purple stuff' SunnyD TV commercial with a unique NASCAR flavor. The remake stars NASCAR champions Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Chris Buescher, along with FOX NASCAR personalities Andrew Doud and Kaitlyn Vincie. Vincie plays the part of 'Misses V' - an unforgettably cheerful lady with a great smile and seemingly endless supply of Sunny D - while Doud delivers the unforgettable classic line "Mega gnarly Misses V."(RFR), see images of the scheme on the #17 Team Schemes page (6-1-2016)

Stenhouse Jr. to make his 125th NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Start: #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. will make his 125th NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) start this weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway, the same track where he got his first NSCS start in 2011 driving the legendary #21 machine earning a respectable 11th - place finish as a rookie. With 14 races remaining before the NSCS Chase cut-off, Stenhouse is just a mere 10 points out of 16th place. "Charlotte has always been a special place to me," Stenhouse said. "In 2011, I got my first Sprint Cup start there in the famed #21. It was an honor to race for the Wood Brothers with their rich history in NASCAR. I earned my best finish of 11th here that year so hopefully we can improve this weekend and earn a top-10 finish." In his previous 124 NSCS starts, the two-time XFINITY champion earned his best career finish at Bristol Motor Speedway in 2014 finishing second behind former Roush Fenway teammate Carl Edwards after an unexpected caution came with two laps remaining followed by a rain shower.(Roush Fenway Racing)(5-26-2016)

Roush Fenway Racing Announces Multi-Year Extension with Fastenal: Roush Fenway Racing has secured a multi-year partnership extension with primary partner the Fastenal Company that will continue Fastenal's position as the anchor partner of the #17 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series team and driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. As part of the extension, Fastenal will also increase the number of its primary races in 2017 and beyond. "We are really excited to announce that Fastenal will remain the anchor partner of the #17 team for years to come," said driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. "Fastenal is a first-class organization with values that align completely with myself and this race team. We've seen a lot of improvement across the board this year. We are very happy that Fastenal will continue to be a part of the momentum at Roush Fenway. There has been a lot of hard work and effort put into this team and our goal and expectation is to reward Fastenal with a trip to victory lane and the Chase in the near future." Fastenal is currently in its fifth season as a primary partner in Roush Fenway's Sprint Cup stable, and its second full season as the anchor partner on Stenhouse's #17 Ford Fusion.
"To have a company of the caliber of Fastenal recognize the long-term value of a partnership with Roush Fenway, Ricky and the #17 team is gratifying for our entire organization," said Roush Fenway president Steve Newmark. "During our relationship, Fastenal has created and implemented a robust and impactful motorsports marketing program, and we are thrilled to have Fastenal continue to be a key part of the Roush Fenway family now and in the future." Fastenal, which boasts 2,600 stores nationwide, first joined Roush Fenway as a primary partner in 2010 in the NASCAR XFINITY Series.
"We are truly looking forward to continuing our partnership with Roush Fenway Racing as the anchor sponsor of the #17," said Fastenal President and CEO Dan Florness. "Ricky has done an excellent job representing our brand - both on and off the track - and we are extremely proud of the relationship we have built with Ricky, Jack Roush and everyone at Roush Fenway Racing. Extending our partnership reflects our belief in Roush Fenway Racing. The NASCAR program has helped us grow our business and excite our employees, and we feel a strong connection with the NASCAR community and fan base."(Roush Fenway Racing)(5-25-2016)

RFR Fan Day, Friday May 26th: Jack Roush, Bubba Wallace, Ryan Reed and Gray Gaulding. NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers Trevor Bayne, Greg Biffle, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Chris Buescher are scheduled to appear at RFR Fan Day in Concord, NC on Thursday, May 26. Autograph sessions will kick off at 10:00am/et with Jack Roush and the Roush Fenway NASCAR XFINITY Series drivers, Bubba Wallace, Ryan Reed and Gray Gaulding. NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers Trevor Bayne, Greg Biffle, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Chris Buescher will sign autographs at 11:15am/et. Autograph session tickets will be on a first-come, first-served basis, beginning at 8:00am/et. RFR is located at 4600 Roush Place, Concord, NC.(5-18-2016)

Roush not likely to move back to 4 cars soon: Now that the organization is headed back in the right direction when it comes to their performance, Roush president Steve Newmark said Sunday the focus is on the immediate future of fighting for a Chase berth and not what their driver lineup is going to be. With three drivers running full-time in the XFINITY Series, three more under their banner in Cup, and Chris Buescher on loan to Front Row Motorsports, decisions will soon have to be made of who is running where. When the company felt [Buescher] was ready to be in Cup instead of running a third year in the XFINITY Series, they coordinated with Bob Jenkins and Front Row, who Buescher was already familiar with, to compete in their camp. In a perfect world, admitted Newmark, Roush will get him back under their roof sooner rather than later. "There's a combination of factors that will go into that," he said. "Ideally, we'll have him in one of our cars in the next few years, but I think the focus right now is we got to get him running better in the 34." Under NASCAR's new ownership rules of only being able to run four full-time cars, plus the addition of the Charter System this year, Roush has been in a box. The chance of ever going back to four full-time cars looks slim, but Newmark won't close the door on any possibility. "Jack would rather run 10 cars; he would run as many cars as he would be enabled," Newmark joked. "It really will depend exactly on the driver, sponsorship, and then now you also have to have a charter, so I don't think we would run a (fourth) full-time, but you never know."(Popular Speed)(5-16-2016)

Waltrip inspired Throwback scheme for Stenhouse, Jr.: Ricky Stenhouse Jr. knew exactly what iconic #17 car he wanted to race in this year's Southern 500 Throwback Weekend at Darlington Raceway. It had to be the orange and white #17 that Darrell Waltrip drove to his first win in 1975. "Darrell Waltrip is one of the icons in our sport and has helped build NASCAR into the sport it is today," said Stenhouse. "It is a huge honor to be able to run the 1975 throwback paint scheme of Darrell's at Darlington. Darrell's last win was at Darlington so only seems fitting that we get his throwback paint scheme in victory lane on Labor Day weekend and have Darrell celebrate with us." Waltrip was 28 years old when he put the field two laps down in his orange and blue #17 on his way to victory lane at Nashville Speedway. He would go on to win a total of 84 Sprint Cup Series races and three Championships throughout a career that spanned three decades. "It's an honor to have this car run in the Southern 500," said Waltrip. "I got my first win at Nashville with that paint scheme but I got my last win in Darlington so it will be a special race weekend for me. I missed the throwback weekend in Darlington last year and regretted it. You can bet I won't miss this one and I'll be rooting for the 17!"(Roush Fenway Racing, see an image of the car on the #17 team paint schemes page.(4-11-2017)

Three teams given written warnings for failing Phoenix inspections: Three NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams were warned for failing inspection at Phoenix International Raceway. #78-Martin Truex Jr. was given a written warning by NASCAR for failing NASCAR's Laser Inspection System twice in pre-race inspection. #38-Landon Cassill's car failed template inspection twice before qualifying at Phoenix and was given a warning. #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr.'s car failed the Laser Inspection System three times in pre-race inspection and was given a warning and will lose 15 minutes of practice time on Friday at Auto Club Speedway. See the Phoenix Post-Event Penalty & Warning Report (pdf) for more.(3-16-2016)

SunnyD to sponsor Stenhouse Jr. in 2016: Roush Fenway Racing announced that the iconic 50-year-old Sunny Delight brand will serve as a primary partner for five races with Ricky Stenhouse Jr. during the 2016 season; four on his #17 Sprint Cup Ford Fusion and once as the two-time NASCAR XFINITY Series (NXS) champion makes his return to the NXS. "This is really awesome," said Stenhouse. "Who didn't grow up loving the bold taste of SunnyD? It's truly one of the most recognizable brands in the world and it's great to both have them on board as a partner and of course to have a big supply of SunnyD on hand at the track as the season moves into the hot, thirsty months of summer."
"We are extremely excited to bring the SunnyD brand and its loyal customer following to our Roush Fenway Racing NASCAR partnership," said Henk Hartong III, chairman & CEO of Brynwood Partners. "This is a platform that directly connects with the most brand-loyal fans in all of sports and we know it will connect on a high level with the NASCAR fans."
SunnyD will make its debut as the primary partner on Stenhouse's #17 Ford at Dover in May. It will also serve as the primary on the #17 at NSCS races at Pocono, Indianapolis and Charlotte. In addition, the two-time champion will make his return to the XFINITY Series at Phoenix, where he will carry SunnyD on the historic #60 Roush Fenway Mustang in November. This will not 'mark' the first time SunnyD has appeared on a Roush Fenway Ford. Mark Martin carried the Sunny Delight logo on the deck lid of his Ford Thunderbird during his heated championship battle with Dale Earnhardt in 1990.
Sunny Delight Beverages Co. (SDBC), based in Cincinnati, OH, was acquired by Brynwood Partners VII L.P, based in Greenwich, CT, in February 2016. SDBC is a leading producer, distributor and marketer of juices, juice drinks and flavored waters in North America. Its brands include the iconic SunnyD juice drink, Veryfine juices and drinks, and Fruit2O flavored and sparkling waters. The company operates four plants across the U. S. They service both refrigerated and shelf stable distribution systems and supply a wide range of customers in grocery, club, mass merchandise, convenience, dollar and drug channels (Roush Fenway Racing), see images of the scheme on the #17 Team Schemes page.(3-1-2016)

Roush Yates already prepping for Stewart-Haas addition: The addition of Stewart-Haas Racing to Ford in 2017 will mean an increased workload for Roush Yates Engines, the company that supplies Ford power to teams in all three of NASCAR's national series. But it means much more than the 60 or so additional engines the supplier will have to produce, according to CEO Doug Yates. "For us, that's four more top-notch cars, opportunities to win races and championships," Yates said Saturday at Atlanta Motor Speedway. "But the work starts now because we've got to get ready for next year." Yates, son of famed engine builder and former team owner Robert Yates, said his company currently has approximately 250 engines in its fleet for Sprint Cup teams. "We'll start building them up but next year, with four cars will mean about 60 more engines... Today we build about 750 Cup, XFINITY and Truck engines a year. At our road race shop we build about 250 a year. Obviously we will have to add some people. We feel like we have a good process, we just have to add volume." The benefit, he said, is it will be "a good opportunity to allow us to bring on more resources for the R&D side, more testing, more engineers. Just add depth to every department. It's exciting.(NASCAR.com)(2-28-2016)

Roush cars forced to change rear gears: During the first practice, #6-Trevor Bayne and #16-Greg Biffle experienced rear gear issues. The rear gears were replaced and both Bayne and Biffle will start from the rear of the first Can-Am Duel on Thursday.(Motorsport)(2-18-2016)

February 14th Marks the Anniversary of Roush Fenway's entry into NASCAR: While across the world, Feb. 14th annually marks the celebration of St. Valentines Day, the date holds a different significance for Jack Roush and the Roush Fenway Racing team. It marks the anniversary of Roush's first foray into the world of NASCAR; his first race at the highest level of automobile racing and a day that would serve as the launch pad for one of the most successful organizations in professional sports history. Competing with a backup car not even built for a superspeedway, Roush and his newly formed team covered only 19 laps before overheating and finishing 41st in its debut Daytona 500 on Feb. 14, 1988. Humble beginnings for a team which 29 years later has accumulated a NASCAR record 322 wins and hoisted championships in all three of NASCAR's highest levels of competition.
"We wrecked our car in the twin qualifying race and had to run a car that was built for a smaller track," said Roush of the day. "We went with what we had and of course did not yield the results we would have liked for your intro to NASCAR that day."
"We made the race on time," said driver Mark Martin, who piloted the #6 Stroh's Ford Thunderbird in Roush Fenway's inaugural season and held the ride for the next 19 seasons. "Then we got wrecked in the Twin-125's and we didn't have a backup speedway car, so we used the Atlanta car for the race. We didn't last 20 laps."
The results would quickly improve however, with Roush and Martin winning a pole that season and earning 10 top-10 finishes. The next season Roush Fenway won six poles, earning 19 top-10 finishes and its first win in 1989, breaking through to the win column in the fall at Rockingham. Roush Fenway would go on to earn its first NASCAR championship in 2000 and its first Cup championship in 2003. Ironically, 25 years later Roush would earn his historic 300th NASCAR [Cup, XFINITY & Trucks] victory in the 2012 Daytona 500; the same event his car had lasted only 19 laps a quarter of a century earlier. Today, Roush's teams have competed in 5,579 NASCAR events, holding the record for most NASCAR wins, most NASCAR wins in the Nationwide Series and most NASCAR wins in the Truck Series.(Roush Fenway Racing)(2-15-2016)

SRI Performance Purchases Roush Yates Performance Products: Roush Yates Performance Products announced that it has reached an agreement with SRI Performance in which SRI will now own, operate, and manage the performance parts distribution business previously owned and operated by Roush Yates Performance Products. With this new agreement, beginning January 1, 2016, SRI will operate out of two locations in Mooresville, NC. Each location will represent a distinctly different product offering.(roushyatesparts.com)(1-5-2016)

Fastenal (15 races) is scheduled to be the sponsor at the following races in 2015:
Daytona, Sprint Unlimited - 2/14
Daytona - 2/22, Milwaukee
Las Vegas - 3/8, Milwaukee
Phoenix - 3/15, Milwaukee
Martinsville - 3/29, Holo-Krome
Charlotte, Sprint Showdown - 5/15, patriotic, Gear Wrench
Charlotte - 5/24, patriotic, Milwaukee
Michigan - 6/14, Milwaukee
Sonoma - 6/28, 3M
New Hampshire - 7/19, Holo-Krome
Bristol - 8/22, Lenox
Chicago - 9/21
Dover - 10/4
Texas - 11/8

Zest (7 races) is scheduled to be the primary sponsor at the following races in 2015:
Texas - 4/11
Bristol - 4/19
Kansas - 5/9
Pocono - 6/7
Michigan - 8/16
Talladega - 10/25
Martinsville - 11/1

Fifth Third Bank (5 races) is scheduled to be the primary sponsor at the following races in 2015:
Atlanta - 3/1
Richmond - 4/25
Talladega - 5/3
Daytona - 7/5
Kentucky - 7/11

NOS (2 races) is scheduled to be the sponsor at the following races in 2015:
Auto Club - 3/22
Indianapolis - 7/26

Races that Ford EcoBoost was the primary sponsor in 2015:
Dover - 5/31
Pocono - 8/2
Watkins Glen - 8/9
New Hampshire - 9/28

Cargill Beef (3 race) is scheduled to be the primary sponsor at the following races in 2015:
Darlington - 9/6, David Pearson throwback scheme
Richmond 9/12, Sam's Club
Phoenix 11/15, Sam's Club

Juicy Juice (1 race) is scheduled to be the primary sponsor at the following races in 2015:
Charlotte - 10/10

Stenhouse wins USAC Midget race in DuQuoin: Ricky Stenhouse Jr. conjured memories of his breakout 2007 USAC season Saturday night as he passed Bryan Clauson with three laps to go to win the inaugural Junior Knepper 55 USAC midget special event at the indoor Southern Illinois Center in DuQuoin, Ill. Stenhouse was caught up in a lap-one logjam, but recovered after restarting the event in the 20th and last position before making his way forward to the $3,000 payday. After heat races and qualifying races accumulated finish and passing points to set feature lineups, Bryan Clauson earned the pole, but fellow front-row starter Tyler Thomas looped his mount in turn-one to set off the six-car stack-up. Clauson finished second in the Rusty Kunz/Joe Dooling Racing - B&H Contractors #63 Spike/Stanton Mopar. Bayston held off Andrew Felker by .045 seconds to finish third in the Bryan Clauson Racing - Priority Aviation Services #39 Spike/Esslinger.(NSSN)(12-21-2015)

Roush Fenway Racing Bolsters Competition Effort: Roush Fenway Racing has bolstered its competitive efforts with three key personnel additions to its NASCAR team. Kurt Romberg, Dr. Kent Day and Vojin Jaksic have each taken on high-level roles within the team that captured its eighth NASCAR championship in 2015. "It takes great talent to win in this sport and we are very pleased with the additions we have made on the competition front," said team owner Jack Roush. "We recognize the importance of putting the appropriate personnel into place, as we continue our relentless pursuit to put the best and most competitive race teams on the track."
Kurt Romberg, who spent the last 15 years heading up aerodynamics at Hendrick Motorsports, joins the team as the Technical Director of Aerodynamics. Romberg worked with General Motors and Petty Enterprises before becoming the chief aerodynamicist at Hendrick.
Dr. Kent Day will serve as Manager of Simulation. Day, who holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Clemson University, brings over two decades of experience to Roush Fenway and has held technical director positions with Team Penske and RCR and most recently specialized in vehicle dynamics at MWR.
Vojin Jaksic returns to Roush Fenway Racing as the research and development/special projects manager after serving in similar positions at MWR and Joe Gibbs Racing. Jaksic previously worked at Roush Fenway Racing from 2005 until 2011.
The additions are part of a strategic plan to expand organizational capabilities and follows the hiring of industry veterans Mark McArdle and Kevin Kidd to lead engineering and Sprint Cup competition last season.(Roush Fenway Racing)(12-15-2015)

Roush Fenway Racing restructures: Change is coming to Roush Fenway Racing. After the dissolution of the #1 XFinity Series team following Elliott Sadler's departure, RFR "right-sized" its NXS program on Monday. However, despite the release of a significant number of employees, others will be hired as RFR restructures its organization. Kent Day, who holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Clemson University and most recently worked at MWR following his tenures at Richard Childress Racing as technical director and Penske Racing as chief engineer. Day will oversee Roush's simulation program. Kurt Romberg has also been recruited by RFR. Romberg was the chief aerodynamicist at Hendrick Motorsports for 15 years. He worked at General Motors and Petty Enterprises prior to joining HMS. Someone with knowledge of the situation told motorsport.com the net loss of personnel would likely be 25 workers.(Motorsport)(11-24-2015)

Cargill / Sam's Club featured on the #17 at Phoenix: The #17 Cargill Beef Ford will feature a special Sam's Club paint scheme this weekend at Phoenix. Cargill Beef first featured a Sam's Club scheme in 2011 during Ricky Stenhouse Jr.'s first championship season in the NASCAR XFINITY Series. In 2012, Stenhouse drove the Cargill Beef/Sam's Club Ford to victory lane in Kansas for his sixth win en route to his second XFINITY Series title. "We love running the Sam's Club paint scheme for Cargill Beef because it's such a recognizable logo and we've had a great history with both partners on our cars," said Stenhouse. "This year the car has a little different look than we've run in the past with a little more white on it so I think the fans will definitely notice the #17 in Phoenix." Cargill Beef has a longstanding history of supplying quality beef to Sam's Club members across the country. "We've had a successful partnership with Roush Fenway racing for several years that has included multiple wins and two championships," said Tammy Shaw, Vice-President, Cargill Beef Marketing. "We are pleased to once again include Sam's Club in our NASCAR program on the #17 Ford. The great American tradition of tailgate grilling is in full swing and we're proud to be a part of it by supplying quality beef to Sam's Club members."(Roush Fenway Racing), see images of the car on the #17 Team Schemes page.(11-13-2015)

Roush Fenway Racing 'Driven' to Highlight Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October: Roush Fenway Racing is going pink in October in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The team will run special pink 'Driven For a Cause' decals on all of its NASCAR Fords for all races during the month. In addition, four of the Roush Fenway Fords will feature 'pink' themed cars this weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway, including the Sprint Cup Fusions of Trevor Bayne and Greg Biffle and the XFINITY Series Mustangs of Elliott Sadler and Bubba Wallace. Sadler's car featured a pink steering wheel, in addition to his pink fire suit. Sadler has a personal connection to the effects of breast cancer. His mother, Bell, is a breast cancer survivor and each year Sadler has done something different to help spread awareness of breast cancer and help raise money for breast cancer research. Roush Fenway Racing XFINITY drivers Chris Buescher, who currently leads the XFINITY Series Championship standings, and Wallace recently showed their support for breast cancer awareness by participating in an event at Charlotte Motor Speedway where breast cancer survivors and supporters came together to paint the pit walls pink at the speedway.
During Roush Fenway's annual fall Fan Appreciation Day, the team set up a 'Driven For a Cause photo booth where fans were encouraged to show support for breast cancer awareness by snapping 'selfies' in various pink attire. Team owner Jack Roush and several of the team's drivers took photos in the booth helping to raise awareness via social media. Fans were also encouraged to download the Early Detection Plan app to help remind them to regularly schedule exams for early detection of breast cancer.(RFR)(10-10-2015)

Roush Fenway Racing to Host Annual Fall Fan Day on October 8: Roush Fenway Racing will host its annual Fall Fan Appreciation day at its home base in Concord, N.C. on Thursday, October 8. The event is open to the public and will include autograph sessions with Roush Fenway's Cup and XFINITY drivers, as well as Jack Roush. "We love our fans here at Roush Fenway Racing," said Roush Fenway President, Steve Newmark. "These fans are always cheering on our drivers at races all over the country and their support never waivers. Fan Day here at Roush is the perfect opportunity to show them how much we appreciate them. This event gives us the means to welcome them to our home here, show them around, and to let them meet the drivers that they are so passionate in supporting."
In addition to autograph sessions, there will be a 'Driven for the Cause' photo booth set up where fans can snap selfies to show their support for breast cancer awareness. Fans are also encouraged to download the Early Detection Plan app to help remind them to regularly schedule exams for early detection of breast cancer. The retail store and museum will be open to fans, where they can take advantage of sales promotions to win items autographed by the Roush Fenway drivers. In addition various Roush Fenway partners will be on hand sampling products.
SiriusXM NASCAR Radio will host a live broadcast during Fan Day on their popular Mid-Day Drive show with hosts Jim Noble and Chocolate Myers; The Roush Fenway drivers and Jack Roush will be featured as quests. Roush Fenway fans are invited to take part in the event through social media, using the hashtag #RFRFanDay. This hashtag will give fans a behind the scenes look at the annual event through social media platforms Periscope and Twitter.
Autograph session tickets will be distributed at 8:00 a.m. and are available only through a first-come, first-served format. Autograph sessions will begin at 10:00 a.m. with Jack Roush and NASCAR Sprint Cup drivers Greg Biffle, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Trevor Bayne. Roush Fenway's NASCAR XFINITY Series drivers Chris Buescher, Bubba Wallace and Ryan Reed will start their autograph session at 11:30 a.m.
What: Roush Fenway Racing Fall 'Fan Appreciation Day'
Where: Roush Fenway Racing's Campus - 4600 Roush Place, Concord N.C. 28027
When: Thursday, October 8. Ticket distribution to start at 8:00 a.m. Fan Day runs until 3:00 p.m.

Roush Fenway Racing Inspired and 'Driven for Elijah':Roush Fenway Racing will honor the courageous fight of 10-year old Elijah Aschenbrenner this weekend, running special "Driven for Elijah" decals on all seven of its NASCAR Fords in races at Kentucky Speedway and New Hampshire Speedway. Elijah, whose mother is a former employee at Roush Fenway Racing, has been battling Epitheliod Sarcoma cancer since May 2014 - with his heroic fight garnering an emotional outpouring from communities including NASCAR and other professional sports. Almost 40,000 people have visited Elijah's blog on Facebook with his most recent video message receiving over 350,000 views. This week alone Elijah has received calls of support from Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton, and Auburn University football coach Gus Malzahn -- whose team has dedicated this week's game to the brave young man who has inspired so many. Join in supporting Elijah on social media, using the hashtag #prayersforelijah and learn more about his battle at Facebook.(RFR)(9-26-2015)

#17 Cargill Beef Ford to feature Sam's Club for two races: The #17 Cargill Beef Ford Fusion will feature a special Sam's Club paint scheme this weekend at Richmond. Cargill Beef first featured a Sam's Club scheme in 2011 during Ricky Stenhouse Jr.'s first championship season in the NASCAR XFINITY Series. In 2012, Stenhouse drove the Cargill Beef/Sam's Club Ford to victory lane in Kansas for his sixth win en route to his second XFINITY Series title. The Sam's Club scheme will also run on the #17 Cargill Beef Ford at Phoenix in November. "We love running the Sam's Club paint scheme for Cargill Beef because it's such a recognizable logo and we've had a great history with both partners on our cars," said Stenhouse. "This year the car has a little different look than we've run in the past with a little more white on it so I think the fans will definitely notice the #17 in Richmond and Phoenix." Cargill Beef has a longstanding history of supplying quality beef to Sam's Club members across the country.(RFR), see images of the car/scheme on the #17 Team Schemes page.(9-9-2015)

Stenhouse Jr. Will Make His 100th NASCAR Sprint Cup Start at Bristol: #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. will make his 100th NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) start this weekend at Bristol, a track where he has seen success scoring two top-five and three top-10 finishes in his last three starts. "I'm really looking forward to Bristol this weekend and can't think of a better track to have my 100th Sprint Cup start," Stenhouse said. "I think the night race at Bristol is one of the best short-track races of our season. After finishing fourth in the spring, I'm looking forward to Saturday night. Hopefully we can get our Fastenal Ford into victory lane, which would be their first Sprint Cup Series win along as my first Sprint Cup win." In March of 2014, with less than 80 laps remaining, the Olive Branch, Miss. native restarted fourth and steadily marched his way up through the field, setting his sights on teammate Carl Edwards who was leading the 500-lap race. After an unexpected caution came with two laps remaining followed by a rain shower, Stenhouse settled for a second-place finish; his best career NSCS finish.(RFR)(8-21-2015)

Stenhouse Unveils Iconic #17 Pearson Scheme for Darlington: A NASCAR 'Throwback' weekend at Darlington Raceway and a #17 Ford canvas made for an undeniable invitation for a David Pearson Ford Torino retro paint scheme. As Pearson remains the winningest driver at Darlington with 10 trips to victory lane at the historic track, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and his sponsor Cargill Beef were honored with the opportunity. "David Pearson is not only an icon in our sport, he is one of the greatest racers of all time," said Stenhouse. "He knew how to save his car for when it counted and that's why he had over 100 wins. From the time I thought this paint scheme might be a possibility, I have been counting the days to get that car on the track at Darlington. I only hope I do it justice."
The gold and blue paint scheme that will run on the #17 Roush Fenway entry in Darlington is the scheme that Pearson drove to two Grand National Championships in 1968 and 1969 for Holman Moody. Two of his 10 Darlington wins were also with the gold and blue Torino in 1968 & 1970. "Seeing the car that Stenhouse is running in Darlington brought back some great memories," recalled Pearson. "We won a lot of races with that paint scheme. I think bringing back some of these old paint schemes is a great way to remind a new generation about some of the best years in NASCAR history."
Cargill's "For the Love of Meat" messaging is all about celebrating how meat fits into the American culture and nothing is more American than a Throwback NASCAR race in Darlington on Labor Day weekend. "As soon as the folks at Roush Fenway told us about the throwback weekend in Darlington, we knew we wanted to be a part of it," said Mike Martin, director of communications. "All diehard NASCAR fans know of the 'Silver Fox' and his accomplishments and we're honored to have our logo on the car for what promises to be a memorable race weekend." Cargill Beef is also launching a social media photo contest that fans can enter by sharing their best beef grilling moments with the hashtag #FortheLoveofBeef. Fans who participate will be entered to win autographed Ricky Stenhouse Jr. merchandise. The contest will run from August 18th through the Darlington race weekend.
The tradition returns to Labor Day weekend as the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Bojangles' Southern 500 is set for Sunday, Sept. 6, 2015. The NASCAR XFINITY Series VFW Sport Clips Help A Hero 200 will race on Saturday, Sept. 5. Tickets are on sale now by calling 866-459-7223 or visiting www.DarlingtonRaceway.com.(Darlington Raceway). See images of the car on the #17 Team Schemes page.(8-18-2015)

Roush says Buescher ready for Cup: Thursday morning, Chris Buescher received a phone call from his father, who had questions about what Jack Roush had said about his son in an interview Wednesday night on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio. "How come you haven't told me any of this?" he asked. "Because I didn't know any of this," Chris responded. "Well, you need to go listen to this." When Buescher did, he heard Roush, his Xfinity Series team owner, say he is "ready" for the Sprint Cup. Roush said it would be "sooner, rather than later" when the 22-year-old leading the Xfinity points standings with 13 races left would be in a Sprint Cup ride full time. "I stop short of saying it's 2016, but there is a consideration, discussion going on about the prospect of getting him in a car," Roush said told Sirius XM host Claire B. Lang. "If not one of my cars, one of the other Ford cars that would be competitive and competing in 2016. He may very well be in one of my Sprint Cup cars. It's just a matter of sponsorship and business considerations." Buescher has spent time with one of those Ford teams this years, racing for Front Row Motorsports in six events, most recently a 37th Sunday at Watkins Glen International. In 2015, Buescher has two Xfinity wins and nine top-five finishes, in addition to his 2014 win at Mid-Ohio which he will attempt to defend this weekend.
In an April interview with NASCAR Talk at Texas Motor Speedway, Roush said Buescher winning a championship "would certainly grease the skids for him. He's two to three years out at the very most." Roush then left open the possibility of fielding a fourth Sprint Cup car. "We've got three Cup cars, so we got another open slot. The 99's number is not being used right now, and I'd like to put it back on the race track," Roush said, referring to the number used by Carl Edwards since 2004 before joining Joe Gibbs Racing this season. "We'll let the 99 have a little air and then we'll create an opportunity for it as well."(NBC Sports)(8-14-2015)

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. Accident Quotes: #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. commented on the accident he was involved in at Pocono Raceway on lap 27 during thew Windows 10 400 Sprint Cup Series race. Stenhouse Jr. finished 41st.
"Everything was happening real fast. I saw the 9 in turn three run up the track and I thought he just got loose and everything was fine but getting into turn one the car in front of me ducked out at the last minute and there was the 9 sitting and I got on the brakes really hard. I think it got on the splitter and couldn't go left or right and just ran right into him. It is not a good day for us. I thought I had a car that could pass some other cars and we did that until that yellow and then we got shuffled back. It is a tough way to end the day that way. We thought we would have a better day than that. I guess the 9 missed a shift or something and I wasn't aware of it until the 35 or one of the other cars pulled out real quick and there was the 9 sitting there. By the time I reacted it was just too late and I ran right back into him."
Q) HOW INCREDIBLY FRUSTRATING HAS THIS WEEKEND BEEN FOR YOU?
Stenhouse Jr.: "Yeah, it has been really bad. We started off really slow and struggling with the handing of our cars. We got it better at the end of final practice and made it up to 27th there during that caution and then we came in and took fuel and were coming back through there and get involved in that wreck. It is a frustrating weekend and a frustrating year but we will continue to work to get our cars better and continue to plug away."(Ford Racing)(8-2-2015)

Cargill returns to sponsor Stenhouse Jr.: Roush Fenway Racing has announced that long-standing partner Cargill Beef will return to the #17 team with NASCAR Champion driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. in 2015. Cargill will serve as a primary partner for multiple races on the #17 beginning with the famed Southern 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup race at Darlington Raceway on Sept 6. As part of the Darlington 'Throwback" initiative the paint scheme for the race will feature a 'special' retro look, which is sure to be a fan favorite. Details on the paint scheme will be released at a later date. "I'm thrilled to have Cargill back this season with the #17 team," said Stenhouse. "They have been an outstanding partner with Roush Fenway for the past five seasons and with our team in both the XFINITY and Sprint Cup Series. I can't think of a better way to welcome them back this season, than going for the trophy in one of my favorite all-time races, the Southern 500 at Darlington."
"We are pleased to announce the continuation of our successful partnership with Roush Fenway Racing and Ricky Stenhouse Jr.," said John Keating, president of Cargill Beef. "Beef is a perfect choice for NASCAR racing fans everywhere. NASCAR fans have proven to be brand loyal, and this partnership provides us the avenue to make Cargill Beef products their top choice."
Cargill first teamed with Roush Fenway in 2010, joining Stenhouse during his rookie of the year season in the NASCAR XFINITY SERIES and continued to serve as a primary partner during Stenhouse's back-to-back NXS Championships in 2011 and 2012. Last season they made the move to Sprint Cup racing with Stenhouse and the #17 team. "Cargill has been an outstanding partner for the past five seasons," said team co-owner Jack Roush. "In 2010 they took a chance on a young and unproven driver in Ricky, and they went on to play a pivotal role in his XFINITY Series Championship seasons. They made the move up to Sprint Cup last season and they continue to play a major role with the #17 and Ricky."
In addition to serving as a primary partner with Stenhouse in 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2014, Cargill teamed with Daytona 500 winner Trevor Bayne in 2013 in the XFINITY Season, before moving up to the Sprint Cup Series with Stenhouse last year. "The enthusiasm we have experienced from our customers, employees and race fans during our time with Roush Fenway Racing has confirmed that high quality beef products and NASCAR racing fit perfectly together," said Tammy Shaw, Cargill Beef vice president of marketing. "And we are extremely excited to once again extend our relationship and to make our 2015 debut with Ricky and the team at Darlington. We look forward to another terrific season with Roush Fenway and Ricky, as we continue to find unique ways to market our products and support our customers through NASCAR."(RFR)(6-25-2015)

Ford seeks to improve teams' success; not interested in adding teams: New Global Ford Performance Director Dave Pericak said Sunday that the company is committed to increased success and performance across all of its racing platforms, including NASCAR. Joined by Sprint Cup driver Brad Keselowski at Michigan International Speedway, Pericak discussed a number of things, including working to improve the performance of Roush Fenway Racing, the evolution of Ford Racing into Ford Performance and the company's promising new GT entry that will debut at Daytona next February. Some excerpts:
Working to improve performance of Roush Fenway Racing: "We are with Jack (Roush) all the time, and we spend a lot of time with Jack's team and we are making all the right, I believe, changes within not only the Roush Fenway organization but as we apply our technical resources within Ford Performance, assisting Jack and his team to get to a better place. We have seen progress. We are excited about what we have seen so far. Obviously we need to see more, but we are confident that Jack is dedicated with his team to do that. We are partners in this and our goal is to make them perform better and we are expecting a better performance today."
What in particular are you working on with RFR? "We are working with them on all aspects of the race car and not only the car but driver training or just everything that is involved in getting a race car to perform on the track. It is all aspects. There is nothing that is not on the table. Jack has welcomed all of the support and help and we have seen some significant improvement as a result of that."
Are you satisfied with the current roster of Ford teams, and have you talked to Furniture Row Racing (about moving from Chevrolet to Ford): "What I would say is that we are very happy with the partners we have today, and we have an approach where we are working to get everybody's performance up and we are committed to doing that. We believe in long-term partners and believe we have the right people that we are with currently."(NBC Sports)(6-15-2015)

Roush questions NASCAR inspection process: Team owner Jack Roush questions the consistency of NASCAR's laser platform, raising issues with an inspection process noteworthy for the numerous warnings issued teams this season. Cars must go through NASCAR's laser platform for inspection at the start of the weekend, before qualifying and before the race. The laser platform logs measurements of various parts, including front and rear wheel camber, wheel base and rear axle location. The laser platform can record measurements within 1/1,000th of an inch in some cases. Controversy has surrounded NASCAR's inspection process and the platform this season. Roush raised issues about the laser platform Wednesday night on SiriusXM NASCAR Radio's "Dialed In" show when asked about inspection issues this season. "That laser machine is also a problem because it's recognized and understood by everybody that either operates it or either inspected by it ... it is not consistent, it does not repeat 100 percent of the time," Roush said. "It is off. We don't know why it's off. Sometimes, we think maybe the humidity has something to do with it. The temperature may have something to do with it. It does not always give you the same answer for the same set of circumstances on the car dimensionally. That's caused NASCAR to increase the tolerance sometimes. So if you've got something that varies and they give you a tolerance to take care of the variance and you're a racer, then you try to use the tolerance in your favor to make your car better." NASCAR declined comment.(NBC Sports)(6-12-2015)

Juicy Juice sponsoring Stenhouse at Charlotte: Roush Fenway Racing's Ricky Stenhouse Jr. will team with Juicy Juice for the Oct. 10 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Charlotte Motor Speedway, with Stenhouse carrying the brand on his #17 Ford Fusion in what has traditionally played out as one of the most exciting events in the Chase for the Sprint Cup. "Growing up there was nothing better than grabbing a Juicy Juice box," said Stenhouse. "It's going to be great to have them on our #17 Ford Fusion in Charlotte. It's a great looking paint scheme. It will look great under the lights and the fans are going to love seeing it on the track."(Roush Fenway Racing), see an image of the car on the #17 team paint schemes page.(6-3-2015)

Roush Fenway Racing to Host Annual Spring Fan Day on May 21: Roush Fenway Racing will host its annual spring fan day at its world headquarters in Concord, N.C. on Thursday, May 21. The event is open to the public and will feature autograph sessions with each of Roush Fenway's seven NASCAR drivers. "We say it each year, but this event is really the perfect opportunity to show our fans how much we appreciate them," said Roush Fenway President Steve Newmark. "We see these fans cheering on our drivers at race tracks across the country, and this is our opportunity to welcome them to our home, show them around and give them the opportunity to meet our drivers and the partners who play such a vital role in what we do each weekend at the track." In addition to the Roush Fenway show cars on site, more than a dozen partner displays will be on hand, with partners handing out samples, setting up simulation pods and tire-changing units, as well as interacting with the fans that support Roush Fenway and the sport of NASCAR. SiriusXM NASCAR Radio will again broadcast its famed Mid-Day Drive show live from the event with popular host Jim Noble and Chocolate Myers, featuring visits with the Roush Fenway drivers. Former Miss Sprint Cup Monica Palumbo will be the official emcee for the day's events and Roush Fenway #16 XFINITY Series hauler driver Jay Maybry and his band JBird and the Congregation will perform live music throughout the day. Roush Fenway fans are also encouraged to take part in the event through social media using the hashtag #RFRFanDay, and the team will give fans a behind the scenes look at the event throughout the day via Periscope and Twitter. Autograph sessions will kick off at 10 a.m. with NASCAR Sprint Cup Series drivers Trevor Bayne, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Greg Biffle. Roush Fenway's NASCAR XFINITY Series drivers Bubba Wallace, Ryan Reed, Chris Buescher and Elliott Sadler will sign autographs at 11:00 a.m.
Autograph session tickets will be on a first-come, first-served basis, beginning at 8 a.m.
What: Roush Fenway Racing Spring 'Fan Appreciation Day'
Where: Roush Fenway Racing Campus - 4600 Roush Place, Concord N.C. 28027
When: Thursday, May 21, 2014. Tickets distribution begins at 8:00 a.m. Fan Appreciation Day runs until 3:00 pm.(RFR)(5-1-2015)

Roush Fenway Racing Bolsters Sales and Marketing Lineup: Roush Fenway Racing announced the hiring of three key executives to its marking team, bolstering its efforts in business development, strategic marketing and event marketing. The team has named Brian Cleek as senior vice president of sales and business development. Cleek brings over 12 years of proven partnership development experience, having worked for some of the most successful properties in professional sports, including the NFL, the New York Giants, ESPN, the Harlem Globetrotters and most recently the PGA of America and Ryder Cup.
Roush Fenway also announced the additions of Bruce Mosley and Stacie Brenner to its executive team. Mosley, a seasoned sales and marketing expert, has joined the team as vice president of strategic marketing. He brings over 20 years of related experience to the position and was instrumental in successful NASCAR related retail activation programs with Kroger, Walmart, Sunoco and Office Depot. Mosley began his motorsports career as director of sponsorship with International Speedway Corporation, focusing on sponsorship and MRN media sales, and later oversaw the NASCAR Sprint Cup Coors Light Racing team sponsorship program. Mosley also serves as Executive in Residence for Belmont Abbey College's Motorsports Management Program.
Brenner, who most recently served as the director of business development/account services at Keystone Marketing, has been named director of event marketing at Roush Fenway. Brenner brings over 20 years of experience in marketing and event management to the position and will oversee Roush Fenway's event marketing and show car departments. During her robust marketing career she has worked with companies that include; Octagon, Nextel, Sprint, Hanes Brands and Mondelez International.(Roush Fenway Racing)(2-13-2015)

Gilliland's team withdraws from Sprint Unlimited; Stenhouse, Jr. in: #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. is the fourth driver to be added to Saturday night's Sprint Unlimited to fill the 25-car field. Stenhouse is in the race after #38-David Gilliland's team withdrew. A spokesperson for Front Row Motorsports said the team did not have sponsorship for the event and elected to skip it. Others who were eligible to compete in the 75-lap exhibition race at Daytona International Speedway but won't are Brian Scott, Brian Vickers and AJ Allmendinger.(NBC Sports), see the complete entry list on the Sprint Unlimited race page.(2-9-2015)

Mark Martin no longer working with Roush Fenway UPDATE: NASCAR Sprint Cup Series veteran Mark Martin, who was hired last July as a driver development coach for Roush Fenway Racing, is no longer with the organization. Asked Friday on Twitter if he would be working with RFR's crop of young drivers in the upcoming season, Martin responded, simply, "No." Martin, who drove for Roush Fenway from 1988-2006 -- the vast majority of his Sprint Cup career -- said at the time of his hiring as a driver development coach that he was happy to be reuniting with the organization where he earned 35 of his 40 career Sprint Cup wins. It was announced in mid-January that Martin, 56, has joined forces with late model dirt-racing legend Scott Bloomquist to field two entries in the Lucas Oil Late Model Championship in 2015. Bloomquist and up-and-coming driver Jared Landers will drive the two team cars, respectively, with both carrying sponsorship from Batesville, Ark.-based Mark Martin Automotive Group.(FoxSports)(2-7-2015)
UPDATE: Mark Martin explained in a tweet Saturday morning why he no longer is working in a driver development role with Roush Fenway Racing. Martin tweeted: "I didn't want to go to the races. I've done enough of that for now. Except for dirt track." Martin answered a fan's question Friday on Twitter confirming that he was no longer serving as a coach for Roush. Saturday, he answered another fan's question as to why he wasn't coaching Roush's drivers.(NBC Sports)(2-8-2015)

Roush had a shot at Jeff Gordon: Fifteen years ago or so, while researching a NASCAR book, one of the people Tom Jensen interviewed was John Bickford, Jeff Gordon's stepfather and business manager. Bickford, who was the architect of Gordon's career from his early days as a kid in quarter midgets until Gordon was an established NASCAR star, had plenty of interesting stories. One of them surrounded how Gordon wound up in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. After growing up racing open-wheel cars on asphalt and dirt, Gordon ran two full seasons in what's now known as the NASCAR Xfinity Series in 1991 and '92. And while Gordon is one of the most recognizable Chevrolet drivers today, in those days he drove Ford Thunderbirds owned by Bill Davis. Naturally, Ford Motor Co. was keen to see Gordon move up to Sprint Cup in a Ford.
According to Bickford, in 1992, NASCAR team owner Jack Roush called him up and told Bickford he wanted to hire Gordon. After a brief discussion, Bickford said he was amenable to the idea of Gordon driving for Roush and he had a great young crew chief named Ray Evernham who Bickford wanted to be part of the deal. "My drivers don't get to pick their own crew chiefs," Roush told Bickford. "I do that." Whereupon Bickford said he hung up the phone, because it was a package deal. Bickford knew Gordon and Evernham already had great chemistry and would be successful together. He didn't want Gordon to have to start over with a new crew chief.
Roush called back and said there must have been a problem with the phone and Bickford said, no, he had hung up on Roush deliberately. Upon hearing that, Roush went on to explain that if he was making the expensive and potentially risky investment in a promising, but unproven young talent, he had to have the comfort level of hiring the crew chief himself. That was the way Roush always worked in the past and the way he was going to work in the future. And that's when Bickford said he hung up on Roush a second time, and when negotiations between the two officially ended.(Tom Jensen / FoxSports)(1-25-2015)

Several NASCAR connections in the Chili Bowl: Three Sprint Cup drivers are among those with NASCAR ties entered in this week's Lucas Oil Chili Bowl Nationals, one of the biggest annual events for racers of sprint midget cars. Cup drivers #42-Kyle Larson, #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and JJ Yeley will compete in the event at the River Spirit Expo Center in Tulsa. Qualifying races to set up the lineups for Saturday's championship day will run Tuesday-Friday for the more than 300 drivers in the event. Larson, Stenhouse and Yeley also will compete in a 16-driver invitation-only all-star event Tuesday night. Among those in the invitation-only event is four-time Chili Bowl champion Kevin Swindell, who has competed part-time in the XFINITY Series. Former Cup and Xfinity Series driver Kenny Wallace is competing for the first time in the event. Among other drivers with NASCAR connections competing are Xfinity drivers Tanner Berryhill and Ryan Ellis and Camping World Truck Series driver Cole Custer.(Sporting News)(1-13-2015)

Zest (7 races) is scheduled to be the primary sponsor at the following races in 2014:
Las Vegas - 3/9
Talladega - 5/4
Kansas - 5/10
Pocono - 6/8
Michigan - 8/17
Dover - 9/28
Charlotte - 10/11

Nationwide Insurance (5 races + 2 non-points races) is scheduled to be the primary sponsor at the following races in 2014:
Daytona, Sprint Unlimited - 2/23
Daytona, Budweiser Duel - 2/23
Daytona - 2/23
Bristol - 3/16
Darlington - 4/12
Richmond - 4/26
Dover - 6/1

Cargill (5 races) is scheduled to be the primary sponsor at the following races in 2014:
Daytona - 7/5, Winn-Dixie
New Hampshire - 7/13, Wegmans
Kansas - 10/5, Sam's Club
Talladega - 10/19, Sam's Club (DNQ)
Phoenix - 11/9

Fifth Third Bank (5 races) is scheduled to be the primary sponsor at the following races in 2014:
Kentucky - 6/28
Pocono - 8/3
Richmond - 9/6
Bristol - 8/23, co-primary with Ford EcoBoost
Atlanta - 8/31
Richmond 9/6

EcoPower (5 races) is scheduled to be the primary sponsor at the following races in 2014:
Michigan - 6/15
Sonoma - 6/22
Indianapolis - 7/27
New Hampshire - 9/21
Texas - 11/2

NOS (1 races) is scheduled to be the sponsor at the following races in 2014:
Phoenix - 3/2

Fastenal (2 races) is scheduled to be the sponsor at the following races in 2014:
Charlotte - 5/25, with the #17 & #99
Homestead - 11/16 - the 2015 scheme

Races that Ford EcoBoost has been the primary sponsor in 2014:
Auto Club - 3/23
Martinsville - 3/30
Texas - 4/6
Watkins Glen - 8/10
Bristol - 8/23, co-primary with Fifth Third Bank
Chicago - 9/14

Pit for a Pair was on the car at:
Martinsville - 10/26

Stenhouse Jr. running open wheel race UPDATE: Ricky Stenhouse Jr. wants a checkered flag for Christmas - well, sort of. The Roush Fenway Racing driver will get back behind the wheel this Saturday, going back to his short-track, open-wheel roots in DuQuoin, Illinois. Stenhouse will compete in the fifth annual Great Clips Battle at the Center on the one-sixth Mini-Magic Mile at the Southern Illinois Center, located on the grounds of the DuQuoin State Fair. The Battle at the Center is a non-points all-star race put on by the POWRi Lucas Oil National Midget Series. It'll be Stenhouse's second bid to win at DuQuoin, having finished second in the inaugural Battle at the Center in 2010. He'll be driving for Bryan Clauson Racing as a tune-up of sorts for next month's Lucas Oil Chili Bowl in Tulsa, Okla., from Jan. 12-17. It'll be Stenhouse's third try to win the Chili Bowl, having finished ninth in 2012, but failed to advance out of the B feature last year. (NBC Sports)(12-20-2014)
UPDATE: Going back to his midget car roots, NASCAR Sprint Cup driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. shook off a couple of late-race mishaps to finish eighth in Saturday's fifth annual Great Clips Battle at the Center at the Southern Illinois Center of the DuQuoin State Fairgrounds. Joey Saldana of Brownsburg, Indiana, led the last five laps of the 40-lap main event around the 1/6-mile racetrack to take home the victory in the POWRi Lucas Oil National Midget Series event. Bryan Clauson finished second, followed by Justin Peck, Spencer Bayston, Daniel Robinson, Andrew Felker, Kevin Ramey, Stenhouse, Tim Siner and Jody Rosenboom. On Lap 26, as Stenhouse tried to make a run for the lead, he was involved in a four-car tangle involving race leader Clauson, Christopher Bell (running second at the time) and 2012 POWRi Lucas Oil National Midget Series champ Andrew Felker. With three laps left in the race, Stenhouse was collected in a six-car pileup that ended his hopes of a top-five finish, but still managed to wind up with a decent eighth-place showing in the 21-car field.(NBC Sports)(12-22-2014)

Yates Denies Rumors of Roush Fenway Buyout: Roush Yates Engines CEO Doug Yates responded yesterday (Dec 4th) to rumors that he will replace Jack Roush at the helm of Roush Fenway Racing when Roush steps down in the near future. "Jack is committed to NASCAR racing," said Yates, son of legendary NASCAR engine builder and team owner Robert Yates. "He loves two things besides his family; racing and flying airplanes. He is not planning to stop the racing part, anyway. I know that for a fact." Yates admitted, however, that he is interested in following his father into the ownership ranks one day. "It's flattering to hear my name out there (in the rumor mill) and if the right situation came along, I'd love to carry on what my dad started and what he accomplished. But right now, my focus is on building great engines for Ford Motor Company and making Ford and Roush proud. That's what I'm going to try to stick with and be focused on in the near future. Jack Roush is not going anywhere" he said, "...and one thing he's not going to do is quit before he gets (Roush Fenway Racing) back where he wants it." Yates also said Roush has been instrumental in his success as an engine builder, adding, "He's been really good to me... a lot like my dad. I've been so fortunate to learn and watch and be around him. He's taught me a lot."(Godfather Motorsports)(12-5-2014)

#17 team has parts confiscated, could face penalty UPDATES: NASCAR announced late Friday that officials have confiscated the rear-end suspension parts on Ricky Stenhouse Jr.'s #17 Ford Fusion after finding an issue during prequalifying inspection for Sunday's Ford EcoBoost 400 at Homestead-Miami Speedway. NASCAR spokesman Kerry Tharp said Saturday afternoon that NASCAR will take Stenhouse's rear-end suspension back to the NASCAR Research and Development Center in Concord, N.C., for further evaluation early next week. Any penalties resulting from the issue on Stenhouse's car will likely be handed down on Tuesday -- two days after the season's final race -- and could affect the final points standings.(FoxSports)(11-16-2014)
UPDATE Roush Fenway Racing's Ricky Stenhouse Jr. faces a likely points penalty for rear suspension pieces confiscated during pre-qualifying inspection Friday. Pemberton said NASCAR will begin its review of the Stenhouse suspensions pieces Monday. Having unapproved rear suspension parts is considered a P5 penalty on NASCAR's penalty system, meaning it could be as much as a penalty of 50 points, a fine of up to $125,000 and a six-week suspension for crew chief Mike Kelley.(Sporting News)(11-17-2014)
UPDATE 2: The #17 team that competes in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series has been penalized for a rules infraction discovered during pre-qualifying inspection Nov. 14 at Homestead-Miami Speedway. This infraction is a P3 level penalty which is outlined in Section 12-4.3 of the 2014 NASCAR rule book:
Violations resulting in P3 penalties tend to fall between serious and intermediate in nature. While they might include general "categories" of infractions similar to those in P4 (e.g. unauthorized parts; failing to meet specs; etc.), they tend to pertain more to secondary componentry or systems; modifications of lessor significance; go/no-go measurement failures of an intermediate nature.
This infraction violates Sections:
12-1 - Actions detrimental to stock car racing;
20-12 - Suspension: All front end and rear suspension mounts and mounting hardware must not allow movement or realignment of any suspension/drive line component beyond normal rotation or suspension/drive line travel.
As a result of these violations, crew chief Mike Kelley has been fined $50,000 and placed on NASCAR probation for six months starting Jan. 1, 2015 through June 30, 2015. Additionally, car chief Patrick Magee has also been placed on NASCAR probation for six months starting Jan. 1, 2015 through June 30, 2015.(NASCAR)(11-20-2014)

Changes at Roush Fenway Racing UPDATE: Roush Fenway Racing is taking steps to right the ship. On Wednesday, RFR will announce the addition of respected motosports manager Mark McArdle as engineering director. McArdle will oversee all engineering for the organization and report to general manager Robbie Reiser. "My role is to provide the organization with better vision, increased levels of direction and communication to allow all the available resources to work together to find the solutions to the basic core problem of car performance," McArdle said. McArdle most recently was director of racing operations at Richard Childress Racing. He held the position since the summer of 2013 after four seasons with Furniture Row Racing in Denver. The last two years at FRR, McArdle served as an intermediary in the teams' technical alliance. He moved back to North Carolina to be closer to his family - ultimately the reason McArdle chose to leave RCR and join RFR, which cuts his commute in half. McArdle acknowledged he was grateful for the opportunity with Richard Childress and still has tremendous respect for the organization. Although McArdle will join RFR at the track this weekend at Phoenix International Raceway, he only expects to be on the road 25-percent of the time in order to focus on the challenges back at the Concord, N.C.-based shop.
RFR has also hired Kevin Kidd as its Sprint Cup team manager. Kidd, who currently oversees the #20 Nationwide Series team for Joe Gibbs Racing, earned an engineering degree at Virginia Tech. He also worked with McArdle as the race engineer on the #19 at Evernham Motorsports. Kidd's role will be similar to Eric Peterson, who was Roush Fenway's operations manager before overseeing the Nationwide Series program.(Motorsport)(11-5-2014)
UPDATE: Roush Fenway Racing has announced the hiring of two industry veterans to senior positions in its competition group. Mark McArdle will oversee engineering for the organization's NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) and NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) teams. Kevin Kidd will serve as NSCS team manager, supervising at-track operations beginning next season for an organization that has placed multiple cars in the 'Chase' in all 10 seasons of the format's existence. "I'm confident that having Mark and Kevin in these two key positions will make our organization even stronger next season," said team co-owner Jack Roush. "Mark has a pedigree in racing that spans multiple platforms and speaks for itself in terms of results. He has a reputation not only for success, but as a great manager and motivator. Kevin is recognized in the garage as one of the brightest minds in our sport. He has acquired invaluable experience working with both veteran and young drivers, and will be a great asset to our Sprint Cup program week in and week out at the race track. We look forward to bringing both Mark and Kevin on board and welcoming them into the fold."
McArdle, a successful veteran of IndyCar and NASCAR racing, has been named engineering director and will directly oversee Roush Fenway's engineering efforts. A renowned engine builder, McArdle boasts three victories in the famed Indianapolis 500 with Penske Racing in 1991, 1993 and 1994, having worked with a litany of open-wheel legends including Ricky Mears, Emerson Fittipaldi, Al Unser Jr. and Michael Andretti. McArdle has spent the last 15 years working in NASCAR, having served in high-level positions with Roush Yates Engines, Evernham Motorsports, Furniture Row Racing and most recently as director of racing operation at Richard Childress Racing.
"Roush Fenway Racing has a tradition and history of success like none other in motorsports, and I'm thrilled to be a part of it," said McArdle. "I've always had a very deep respect for Jack Roush and his entire organization, and know that the expectation for him, his drivers, teams and sponsors is to win races and championships at every level. I look forward to becoming part of that winning tradition, and to continuing it in 2015 and beyond."
Kevin Kidd has been named NSCS team manager. He will join Roush Fenway after having served as the crew chief for the No. 20 NASCAR Nationwide Series team at Joe Gibbs Racing since 2010. During that time he guided his teams to nearly 90 top-10 finishes in 167 starts with veteran drivers such as Matt Kenseth, Joey Logano and Denny Hamlin, as well as a host of developmental drivers. "Roush Fenway is a perennial 'Chase' contender with three extremely talented drivers in the 2015 line-up," said Kidd. "All of the right resources are in position to place all three of those drivers into the 'Chase' next season, and that will be our goal. I've had a great deal of experience working with both veterans and younger drivers, and this organization has a great mix of that with Greg Biffle, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Trevor Bayne. I look forward to the opportunity to work with each of them, their teams and everyone at Roush Fenway." Kidd will move into his new role at the conclusion of the 2014 season.(Roush Fenway Racing)(11-6-2014)

Roush cars to carry special decals on cars in Nov.: Throughout the month of November, Roush Fenway Racing will support partners Lilly Diabetes and the American Diabetes Association as they highlight American Diabetes Month and World Diabetes Day (November 14). In addition to unique video and social content, the team will carry special decals on all six of its Fords in both the NASCAR Nationwide Series [#6, #16, #60] and NASCAR Sprint Cup Series [#16, #17, #99] during the month )of November). "Diabetes is obviously something that hits very close to home for me, so I really appreciate that our entire Roush Fenway team and partners are helping to raise awareness during the month of November," said Ryan Reed, driver of the #16 American Diabetes Association Drive to Stop DiabetesSM presented by Lilly Diabetes Ford Mustang (in the NNS). "I'm proud of the work that both the American Diabetes Association and Lilly Diabetes do, and am excited to draw more attention to that." Diabetes impacts nearly 30 million children and adults in the United States, with another 86 million having prediabetes and are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes. American Diabetes Month takes place each November, with the goal of raising awareness of this ever-growing epidemic, with programs designed to focus the nation's attention on the issues surrounding diabetes and the many people who are impacted by the disease.(RFR)(11-1-2014)

Pink cars for Roush Fenway at Martinsville: Roush Fenway Racing drivers #16-Biffle, #17-Stenhouse, Jr., and #99-Edwards will go pink for Martinsville Speedway in support of the National Breast Cancer Foundation and the early detection plan app.(Roush Fenway), see images of the cars on the #16 team paint schemes, #17 team paint schemes, and #99 team paint schemes pages.(10-24-2014)

Roush to be inducted into Kentucky Motorsports Hall of Fame: Legendary motorsports team owner and innovator Jack Roush has long been identified with the state of Michigan, where his corporate empire is headquartered in Livonia (suburban Detroit). While he may have committed the last several decades of his racing career to the blue oval of Ford, the man nicknamed "The Cat In the Hat" is actually a native of the Bluegrass State. And because of that distinction, Roush, who was born in Covington, Ky., will be one of 13 new members inducted Saturday into the Kentucky Motorsports Hall of Fame in Owensboro. Induction into the Kentucky Hall is one of countless honors Roush has received in his career, including the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in 2006 and the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame in 2010.(NBC Sports)(10-24-2014)

Roush Fenway Racing "Fan Day" Set for Thursday, October 9: Roush Fenway Racing will hold its annual "Fall Fan Day" on Thursday, Oct. 9 at its team headquarters. Team owner Jack Roush and NASCAR drivers Greg Biffle, Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Carl Edwards, Trevor Bayne, Ryan Reed and Chris Buescher will be on hand to interact with fans and sign autographs. Sirius/XM NASCAR Radio (Ch. 90) will again broadcast its popular "Tradin' Paint" mid-day program with Jim Noble and Chocolate Myers live from the event. In addition, Roush Fenway will host a live "Google+ Hangout" on its award-winning Google+ platform beginning at 10:00 a.m. Also featured will be a Fan Day 'Selfie' booth, where fans will be encouraged to take selfie photos with special pink props, highlighting Roush Fenway's 'Pit for a Pair' program to raise awareness for the National Breast Cancer Foundation and National Breast Cancer awareness month. Fans will be encouraged to tag the photos with the special hashtag #Pit4APair, as well as vote for one of two pink items that the Roush Fenway drivers will wear during driver introductions later in the month at Martinsville Speedway. Ticket distribution for the autograph sessions will be held on site and begin at 8:00 am/et.(RFR), more info at roushfenway.com.(10-2-2014)

Fifth Third Bank renews with #17 Roush Fenway Racing team: Roush Fenway Racing today announced that Fifth Third Bank has renewed its relationship as a primary sponsor of the #17 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) Ford with driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. in a multi-year deal (supposedly thru 2017). "We are really thrilled to have Fifth Third Bank back with us next season" said Stenhouse, who is currently competing in his sophomore season at NASCAR's highest level. "It has been an honor to represent Fifth Third over the past two seasons and I am looking forward to working with them over the years to come. We have them on the car here in Atlanta this weekend and again in Richmond next weekend. Hopefully we can celebrate this announcement with a trip to victory lane and a 'Chase' berth for the #17 team." Fifth Third Bank came onboard with Roush Fenway Racing in 2012 and has served as a primary sponsor on the #17 NSCS entry for the past three seasons. "Fifth Third Bank is proud to extend our relationship with Roush Fenway Racing and Ricky Stenhouse, Jr.," said Greg Carmichael, President and COO of Fifth Third Bank. "Our two companies share many of the same values including a commitment to teamwork and a drive to compete at the highest level. We look forward to continuing our relationship with Roush Fenway Racing and delivering innovative financial solutions to companies associated with the motorsports industry."
Stenhouse Jr., who captured NSCS Rookie of the Year honors in 2013, is a two-time NASCAR champion after winning back-to-back titles in the NASCAR Nationwide Series in 2011 and 2012. He will make his 66th career Sprint Cup Series start this weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway, with a career best finish of second earlier this year at Bristol.
"Fifth Third Bank been a terrific supporter of Roush Fenway's race cars on the track for the last three years, but our business relationship with them goes back much further," said Roush Fenway president Steve Newmark. "The best relationships for our team are ones where we can realize synergies across multiple touch points. Our relationship with Fifth Third Bank is a great example of that as we rely on them for all of our banking needs and they have been an integral part of our daily business operations for many years. We are thrilled to be able to continue working with them and supporting their commitment to motorsports for many years to come."(RFR)(8-31-2014)

Stenhouse Reveals 2015 Fastenal Fusion at Fastenal Headquarters: #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. traveled to Fastenal headquarters in Winona, Minnesota last week to unveil the 2015 #17 Fastenal Ford Fusion in front of the 'Blue Team'. "It was great to unveil our 2015 Fastenal paint scheme at Fastenal's headquarters in front of their employees," Stenhouse said. "I got to meet a lot of individuals and their excitement has me looking forward to the 2015 season. On our tour, they showed me a wall that was designated for win banners so our #17 team will have to work on that for them." In Indianapolis, Roush Fenway Racing announced that long-time partner Fastenal will serve as the anchor partner on the #17 Ford in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series for a multi-year agreement beginning next season. Fastenal first joined with Roush Fenway in 2010 and has served as a primary partner for multiple Roush Fenway teams and drivers in both the NASCAR Nationwide Series (NNS) and NSCS.(RFR), see images of the scheme on the 2015 #17 Team Schemes page.(8-23-2014)

Mark Martin returns to Roush...as a coach UPDATE: Roush Fenway Racing announces that legendary NASCAR driver Mark Martin is returning to the race team where he excelled behind the wheel for almost 20 years - this time as the team's driver development coach. Martin was the first driver hired by team owner Jack Roush when he founded his NASCAR operation in 1988. The two went on to become one of the most successful duos in sports history, accumulating 83 NASCAR wins, four NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Championship runner-up finishes, and building Roush Fenway into the winningest team in NASCAR history.
"I'm excited to return to Roush Fenway Racing, as it feels like I'm going home to where I belong," said Martin. "I was fortunate to help build this team from the beginning and it's very humbling to be a part of Jack's team again. When Jack first hired me in 1988 we didn't talk about salary or benefits or perks, we talked about testing, tires and putting the right personnel into place to win on the track. That commitment is what stood out to me then and it's still what stands out to me today."
Martin piloted Roush Fenway's flagship #6 Ford from 1988 until 2006. During that time he accumulated 35 NSCS victories. At the end of his tenure at Roush Fenway he held a record five prestigious IROC (International Race of Champions) Championships and a then record 47 NASCAR Nationwide Series wins. For his career Martin posted 96 career NASCAR victories.(Roush Fenway Racing)(7-31-2014)
UPDATE: Mark Martin is back working for Jack Roush. As a driver coach, not as a driver. The 55-year-old Martin has enjoyed his time away from the track this season. He has spent the last two years driving in most, but not all, of the Cup races. "I don't ever flip on the TV and wish I was there," Martin said in a phone interview Friday morning. "I am happy where I am at. It's probably less (of an urge) than I even expected to get back into a racecar." While at Roush Fenway Racing from 1988-2006, Martin earned 35 of his 40 career Cup wins and four of his five career runnerup finishes in the standings. Since then, he has run five part-time seasons and three full-time seasons. He has 882 Cup starts, and it appears he's not all that interested in 883. "You know me well enough to know that I'm not going to say (never)," Martin said. "But I'll just tell you I have no interest at this time. I have no interest in even practicing a car or testing a car at this time.(Sporting News)(8-2-2014)

Zest renews sponsorship of Stenhouse, Jr.: Roush Fenway Racing announced that it has extended its partnership with Zest and the #17 Ford Fusion driven by two-time NASCAR champion Ricky Stenhouse Jr., into the 2015 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series season. Zest first joined Roush Fenway in 2012 and has served as a primary partner on the #17 Ford in NSCS competition the past three seasons. The company will again serve as a primary for Stenhouse for multiple races in 2015, as well as a season-long associate for the #17 entry.(Roush Fenway Racing)(7-30-2014)

Roush Fenway Racing Announces 2015 NASCAR Sprint Cup Lineup: Roush Fenway Racing's 2015 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) lineup will consist of three teams anchored by two-time NASCAR champion Greg Biffle. Biffle, driver of the #16 Ford and Ricky Stenhouse Jr., driver of the #17 Ford and also a two-time NASCAR champion will be joined by Daytona 500 champion Trevor Bayne in the #6 Ford. The lineup features a veteran perennial 'Chase' contender in Biffle - who is currently competing to become the first driver to win a championship at all three of NACAR's premiere series - as well as two of the sport's most promising up and coming drivers.
"I have had the privilege of fielding entries for the world's best race car drivers in NASCAR for nearly 30 years, and feel quite fortunate to have an opportunity to do that again next year," said team co-owner Jack Roush. "We have always prided ourselves in developing talent at Roush Fenway, and our 2015 line-up is a testament to the success of our organization in that respect. Greg Biffle is one of the most purely talented racers I've ever seen behind the wheel of a car, and his experience combined with the raw natural abilities, enthusiasm and desire in both Ricky Stenhouse, Jr. and Trevor Bayne have me very excited for the future. Although we still have a lot to accomplish this year, both John Henry and I are looking forward to going to the track in 2015 with this blend of veteran leadership and youthful potential."
Biffle, who has 746 NASCAR starts, first joined Roush Fenway in 1998, and earned the organization its first NASCAR championships in the NASCAR Truck Series in 2000 and in the NASCAR Nationwide Series (NNS) in 2002. He has qualified for the NASCAR Chase for the Sprint Cup in five of the last six seasons; with a runner-up finish in 2005. Of his 55 NASCAR wins, 19 came in the NSCS, including Ford's 1,000th NASCAR victory last year.
"I don't have the words for what Jack Roush has meant to my career," said Biffle. "During our 16 years together, we have won multiple championships and numerous races on every level. I am as excited about what the future holds for me here as I am about what we have been able to accomplish in the past. Our goal remains to run up front, win races and become the sports' first triple-crown winner by having a championship in all three series. I know that we have the right ownership, the right team, the right resources and the right manufacturer to get that done here here at Roush Fenway."
Stenhouse joined Roush Fenway in 2008, going on to win back-to-back NNS championships in 2011 and 2012. In addition, he captured NASCAR rookie honors in NNS and NSCS in 2010 and 2013, respectively. Bayne, the 2011 Daytona 500 Champion, joined Roush Fenway in 2010 and has competed full-time in the NNS, while also running a limited NSCS schedule with Wood Brothers Racing. He will make the transition to full-time NSCS racing with AdvoCare as his primary partner on Roush Fenway's iconic #6 Ford.
#99-Carl Edwards will not be with the team for the 2015 season. "I will always be thankful for Carl's contribution and the role he played in many Roush Fenway wins and championships," said Roush. "We wish him well for the future. In the meantime, we are excited about continuing our quest for a championship with Carl and the #99 team in 2014."(RFR), rumors have Edwards going to Joe Gibbs Racing in 2015, but nothing is expected to be announced until September 2014.(7-27-2014)

Fastenal to Serve as Primary Partner for Stenhouse in 2015: Roush Fenway Racing announced that long-time partner Fastenal will team with Ricky Stenhouse Jr., serving as the anchor sponsor on the #17 Ford in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) for a multi-year agreement beginning next season. Fastenal first joined with Roush Fenway in 2010 and has served as a primary partner for multiple Roush Fenway teams and drivers in both the NASCAR Nationwide Series (NNS) and NSCS. "Fastenal is a first class partner and we are extremely pleased to have them team with Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and the #17 team starting next year," said Roush Fenway co-owner Jack Roush. "Ricky has accomplished a great deal in a short time, and continues to improve each week. We have very high expectations for his success in the future and I'm thrilled that Fastenal will be a part of that."
Stenhouse, who earned NSCS rookie of the year honors in 2013, will move into his third full-season of Sprint Cup competition in 2015. Considered one of the most talented up-and-coming drivers on the circuit, Stenhouse posted back-to-back NNS championships in 2011 and 2012.
Fastenal is currently in its third season as a primary partner on the #99 NSCS entry driven by Carl Edwards, and was the primary partner on the #60 NNS team that captured the owner's championship in 2011. Fastenal has also served in a limited role as a primary partner for the #16 and #17 NSCS teams the past two seasons.
"We appreciate everything Carl has done and wish him nothing but the best," said Fastenal President Lee Hein. "That said, we're looking forward to continuing our partnership with Roush Fenway Racing as the anchor sponsor of the #17. We already have a strong relationship with Ricky, and we're 100% confident that he'll do a great job representing our company on and off the track."
"As a driver, I'm thrilled to have Fastenal on board for next season," said Stenhouse. "I grew up working in a race shop, helping my dad build cars and racing engines. I appreciate the chance to work with a partner like Fastenal that plays such an important role in building our race cars and helping us win on the track. I've had the opportunity to work with them in the past and meet a lot of the men and women that are part of the 'Blue Team.' I look forward to representing them on the racetrack, and to taking them to victory lane."(RFR)(7-27-2014)

EcoPower returns to sponsor Stenhouse Jr. at Indy: Ecopower Re-Refined Oil will serve as the primary sponsor at Indianapolis on the #17 EcoPower Ford Fusion, driven by Ricky Stenhouse Jr. EcoPower is a recently introduced brand of motor oil that is re-cycled and re-refined from used lubricating oils. It protects engines and protects the environment. EcoPower is primarily sold to large corporate and government fleets, as well as consumers through do-it-for-me oil change outlets. EcoPower is by far the largest seller of lubricants to the U.S. Military for all branches all over the World; Safety-Kleen has been the majority supplier for almost 20 years. EcoPower protects some of the largest State and municipal fleets.(RFR), see images of the car on the #17 Team Schemes page.(7-25-2014)

Roush Fenway tests at Michigan: Roush Fenway Racing Cup drivers #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr., #16-Greg Biffle and #99-Carl Edwards spent Monday and Tuesday using one of their NASCAR allotted tests at Michigan International Speedway in preparation for both the August MIS race and this weekend's Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.(Ford Racing)(7-23-2014)

Hamlin, Stenhouse, Waltrip compete on golf tournament: #11-Denny Hamlin, #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr., and #66-Michael Waltrip competed in the 2014 American Century Championship at Lake Tahoe over the weekend. Stenhouse was initially the favorite of the group, listed at 50-1 odds by Harrah's/Harveys Lake Tahoe Race & Sports Book to win. Hamlin and Waltrip were both listed at 200-1. The American Century Championship was celebrating its 25th Anniversary this year with a special salute to America's Armed Forces. As part of that initiative, Col. Chad Pfeifer, three-time winner of President George W. Bush's Warrior Open and the 2011 National Amputee Tournament champion, joined the field. Pfeifer lost his leg in an IED explosion while on patrol in Iraq in 2007.
At the conclusion of the tournament, Hamlin was 55th, Stenhouse was tied for 56th, and Waltrip finished tied for 71st. The tournament was won by former NFL quarterback Mark Rypien. See more about the tournament on the NASCAR Related Charities Events and News page.(7-21-2014)

Sprint Cup teams form Race Team Alliance UPDATE: A group of nine multi-car teams participating in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) announced today they have formed a collaborative business association called the Race Team Alliance (RTA). The purpose of the organization is to create an open forum for the teams to explore areas of common interest and to work collaboratively on initiatives to help preserve, promote, and grow the sport of stock car racing. The organization intends to open up its membership to all full time NSCS teams in the very near future. In providing a vehicle for the teams to work together, the organization creates for the first time a single entity to engage with stakeholders on creative ways to market and experience the power of the sport's teams and drivers. As part of its focus, the RTA also plans to explore innovative ways to harness the combined purchasing power and scale of the teams' operations to drive efficiencies in costs. Rob Kauffman, co-owner of Michael Waltrip Racing, has been elected the first chair of the RTA.
"With the encouragement of NASCAR and the manufacturers, the teams have met in various forms and forums over the years to explore areas of common interest. This simply formalizes what was an informal group." said Kauffman. "The key word is 'Collaboration'. We all have vested interests in the success and popularity of stock car racing. By working together and speaking with a single voice, it should be a simpler and smoother process to work with current and potential groups involved with the sport. Whether it be looking for industry-wide travel partners or collaborating on technical issues - the idea is to work together to increase revenue, spend more efficiently, and deliver more value to our partners."
The following teams are the executive members of the RTA: Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates, Hendrick Motor Sports, Joe Gibbs Racing, Michael Waltrip Racing, Richard Childress Racing, Richard Petty Motor Sports, Roush Fenway Racing, Stewart-Haas Racing and Team Penske.(RTA)(7-7-2014)
UPDATE: Statement from NASCAR: "We are aware of the alliance concept the team owners have announced, but have very few specifics on its structure or purpose. It is apparently still in development and we're still learning about the details so it would be inappropriate to comment right now. NASCAR's mission, as it has always been, is to create a fair playing field where anyone can come and compete. Our job is to support and strengthen all of the teams, large and small, across all of our series and we'll continue to do that. NASCAR is a unique community with hundreds of stakeholders. They all have a voice and always will."(NASCAR)(7-7-2014)

Cargill makes first appearance on Stenhouse, Jr's car: Cargill will make its debut on the #17 at Daytona International Speedway in the July 5th Coke Zero 400. Cargill provides food, agriculture, financial and industrial products and services to the world. Cargill has 143,000 employees in 67 countries who are committed to feeding the world in a responsible way. Cargill is also one of the largest beef producers in the U.S. Cargill previously partnered with Stenhouse and NASCAR champion crew chief Mike Kelley during the duo's back-to-back NASCAR Nationwide Series Championships in 2011 and 2012. Cargill first joined Roush Fenway Racing during the 2010 season.(Roush Fenway Racing), see an image of the car on the #17 team paint schemes page.(7-3-2014)

Ecopower Re-Refined Oil returns to the #17 at Sonoma: EcoPower will serve as the primary sponsor on the #17 EcoPower Ford Fusion, driven by Ricky Stenhouse Jr. for the 2nd of fiv races at Sonoma Raceway. EcoPower is a recently introduced brand of motor oil that is re-cycled and re-refined from used lubricating oils. It protects engines and protects the environment. EcoPower debuted as the primarily sponsor at Michigan last week (RFR), see images of the car on the #17 Team Schemes page.(6-21-2014)

Five drivers to run K&N Pro Series West race: #42-Kyle Larson, #3-Austin Dillon, #7-Michael Annett, #51-Justin Allgaier and #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. are entered in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series West race at Sonoma Raceway this weekend. They're seeking additional road course experience before Sunday's Sprint Cup race there.(Motor Racing Network)(6-18-2014)

Jack Roush comments on 2015 driver lineup and performance: car owner Jack Roush participated in a press conference this morning announcing their involvement with EcoPower re-refined motor oil, produced by Safety-Kleen. In addition, team owner Jack Roush answered questions regarding the 2014 season and 2015, the transcript in part:
Q) WHERE DO YOU FEEL YOUR PROGRAM IS AT THIS POINT AND DO YOU HAVE ANY UPDATE ON YOUR DRIVER LINEUP FOR NEXT YEAR?
Roush: "In due time we'll have announcements for 2015. We've got a lot of 2014 in front of us and we're obviously focused on that. If you looked at our year we've been probably challenged more than some of the teams have with the difference in the ride height. I know that's changed the dynamic of the underbody of the car and it's been a revelation. How low is low enough and how low is too low. Too low is higher than we thought it might have been a month ago and we're sorting that out. We're committing to test as much as we can. We've got a test going somewhere virtually every week, either a tire test at a NASCAR race track - a sanctioned test - or a bootlegged race track test that's not on the NASCAR circuit, so we're testing. We're running our eight-post machine in the lab real hard and we're taking very careful note of the ride height changes on the race track and where we seem to have our challenge and our best result returned. I think that most of the answer for the things that we need are in our box of parts - it's the bump stops, it's a rubber, it's those spring combinations - it's the roll bars. We don't seem to have a kinematic problem. We don't seem to have a fundamental error problem. Certainly the Penske guys are running really well with very similar cars and we've just got to get back to where we need to be. This business cycles. We've had times when we've been the cars to beat for an extended period of time to everybody's frustration and now we're just struggling to get back to where we need to be."(Ford Racing)(6-13-2014)

Ecopower Re-Refined Oil debuts on the #17 at MIS: EcoPower will serve as the primary sponsor on the #17 EcoPower Ford Fusion, driven by Ricky Stenhouse Jr. for five races in the NSCS - with the first race being this weekend at MIS. EcoPower is a recently introduced brand of motor oil that is re-cycled and re-refined from used lubricating oils. It protects engines and protects the environment. EcoPower is primarily sold to large corporate and government fleets, as well as consumers through do-it-for-me oil change outlets. EcoPower is by far the largest seller of lubricants to the U.S. Military for all branches all over the World; Safety-Kleen has been the majority supplier for almost 20 years. EcoPower protects some of the largest State and municipal fleets (RFR), see images of the car on the #17 Team Schemes page.(6-13-2014)

Fastenal to Honor Military Workforce with Three Car Salute at CMS: For the third straight year, Fastenal will display appreciation for our nation's military forces through its sponsorship of the entire Roush Fenway Racing (RFR) fleet at the Coca-Cola 600. The patriotic paint schemes that will grace the racecars of #99-Carl Edwards, #16-Greg Biffle and #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. represent the organization's gratitude to military personnel who are a part of the Fastenal Blue Team as well as all other men and women who have served our country. In 2013, Fastenal held an essay contest for its active and retired military employees, selecting three winners who were individually featured on the hoods of the #99, #17 and #16 cars. This year, 630 Fastenal employees who have represented our great nation will see their names under the lights of Charlotte Motor Speedway as they are proudly displayed on the hood of the #99.
"Behind every one of those names is a story of tremendous sacrifice," said Fastenal President Lee Hein. "It's our small way of paying tribute to their service and letting them know that we couldn't be more proud to have them as members of the Fastenal Blue Team."
Twelve of the 630 veterans highlighted on the hood of Edward's car will be in attendance at Charlotte Motor Speedway this Memorial Day weekend for a behind-the-scenes experience at the 55th running of the Coca-Cola 600. Former Army Sergeant Robert Thompson, who now works out of Lincolnton, N.C. as a Fastenal Sales Associate, is proud to be part of an organization that recognizes its large military workforce.
"It feels pretty awesome that I work for a company like Fastenal that honors, respects and values veterans," said Thompson. "In the short time that I have been with Fastenal I have come to find out that there are a lot of veterans at the company. They realize that the military gives their personnel a wide assortment of skills. It's great to see that Fastenal understands that and hires us to perform those skills."
In addition, Fastenal would like to acknowledge Roush Fenway Racing employee and veteran Randy Fuller by including his name on the hood as an honorary Blue Team member. Fuller, who served in the Air Force for 26 years and retired as a Chief Master Sergeant, has been the Media Relations Manager for Edwards for over a decade. This is Fastenal's third season in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series as the primary sponsor for Edwards in the #99 Ford Fusion. (RFR / Fastenal Racing), see image of the schemes on the #99 Team Schemes page.(5-22-2014)

Cargill 'Beefs Up' Partnership with Roush Fenway, Stenhouse Jr.: Roush Fenway Racing has announced that long-standing partner Cargill Beef will move to the Sprint Cup Series, serving as a primary partner for the #17 team with NASCAR Champion driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. The pair will make its debut together at Daytona International Speedway in the July 5th Coke Zero 400. "We are pleased to continue to grow our partnership with Roush Fenway Racing and to reunite with Ricky Stenhouse Jr.," said John Keating, president of Cargill Beef. "We recognize that NASCAR fans love beef and they have proven to be brand loyal by supporting companies that back teams within the sport. This makes NASCAR an ideal marketing venue for Cargill and our customers. Beef is a perfect choice for NASCAR racing fans everywhere, including trackside grilling, and this partnership provides us the avenue to make Cargill Beef products their top choice." Cargill previously partnered with Stenhouse and NASCAR champion crew chief Mike Kelley during the duo's back-to-back NASCAR Nationwide Series Championships in 2011 and 2012. Cargill first joined Roush Fenway Racing during the 2010 season.
"It's only fitting that Cargill has opted to make the move up to Sprint Cup with Ricky," said team owner Jack Roush. "Cargill entered the sport in 2010 and took a chance on a young and unproven driver in Ricky. They went on to play a major role in his back-to-back Nationwide Series Championships, and we are excited to extend our relationship into the Sprint Cup Series as Ricky's career continues to grow and as his potential is further realized."
"I'm thrilled to have Cargill become a part of the #17 team," said Stenhouse. "They have been a great partner with Roush Fenway for the past four seasons and we had a great run with them in the Nationwide Series. It is our intention to pick up where we left off in 2012. I can't think of a better way to bring them into the Sprint Cup Series than racing for a win at Daytona on July 4th weekend -- the biggest grilling weekend of the year."
In addition to serving as a primary partner with Stenhouse in 2010, 2011 and 2012. Cargill teamed with Daytona 500 winner Trevor Bayne in 2013 in the Nationwide Series. "We are delighted to grow our partnership and to team up with Ricky coming off his Sprint Cup rookie-of-the-year season," stated Tammy Shaw, Cargill Beef vice president of marketing. "The enthusiasm we have experienced from our customers, employees, and race fans during our time with Roush Fenway Racing has confirmed that high quality beef products and NASCAR racing fit perfectly together. Our customers provide consumers value by promoting Cargill beef and our affiliation with Roush Fenway Racing on the NASCAR circuit has served as a clear point of differentiation. We look forward to another terrific season with Roush Fenway, Ricky and Mike and to continue to find unique ways to market our products and support our customers through NASCAR."
Cargill will serve as the primary partner on the #17 car for five races during the 2014 season. (RFR)(5-22-2014)

Roush Leads Kentucky HoF Inductees: One of the most successful team owners in all of motorsports, a legendary car show promoter and some of Louisville 's most successful short track oval racers will be part of the 2014 class of the Kentucky Motorsports Hall of Fame. The seventh annual induction ceremony will be held in October at the SpeedZeum inside the Owensboro Museum of Science and History in downtown Owensboro. Topping the class of 2014 is Covington native Jack Roush, whose motorsports career has spanned the upper echelon of NASCAR, drag racing, sports car racing and automotive aftermarket engineering and development.
Other members of this year's class include: Carl Casper and Chub Lorah of Louisville, promoters of the annual Carl Casper custom car show in Louisville; V.V. Cooke race team, a Louisville-based oval racing team; Hal Miller, of Owensboro , who built and promoted the first oval race track and drag strip in Owensboro; Bob Taylor of Louisville , a nationally recognized show car builder, painter and pin-stripe artist; Chuck Winders of Louisville, the most successful driver in the history of the former Louisville Motor Speedway. In addition, this year the Hall of Fame will present only its third Pioneer Award to Tony Schiller of Frankfort.(National Speed Sport News)(5-17-2014)

Roush Fenway Racing makes a change: Release of long-time Roush Fenway Racing lead engineer Chip Bolin signals change in direction for NASCAR powerhouse Chip Bolin and Roush Fenway Racing have parted ways. Roush Fenway Racing confirmed on Thursday morning that Bolin had been released. Bolin, 40, joined RFR in 1998 along with Bob Osborne to start the company's engineering department following an internship with Andy Petree Racing. The North, S.C.-native has worked in a variety of roles at RFR over the years including as both crew chief and team engineer. His first season was 1999, the same year Matt Kenseth and Robbie Reiser (now GM). Bolin became the #17 team engineer in 2001 and was an integral part of Kenseth's 2003 Sprint Cup championship. At the end of 2007 season when Reiser transitioned into a management role, Bolin was named crew chief for Kenseth's team. Bolin's release comes at a time when both of Roush's top drivers have contracts up for renewal. While Biffle insists it's his intent to remain with the organization, there has been a rash of speculation surrounding Edwards' plans.(Motorsport)(5-15-2014)

RFR, Stenhouse Jr. Building for America's Bravest at Shootout: Roush Fenway Racing and Ricky Stenhouse Jr. announced they are teaming with the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation to support the organizations' continued effort to build 'smart' homes for injured military heroes. In addition, the organizations' '9/11 Never Forget' mobile exhibit will make its return to its North Carolina roots at RFR's Fan Appreciation Day on May 22. The exhibit was built in North Carolina and was unveiled in Fayetteville in September 2013.
"It's a great cause and I am proud to carry their colors on our race car," said two-time NASCAR champion Ricky Stenhouse Jr. "It's our duty as American Citizens to give back to the guys that give everything for our freedom and are true heroes. They are the ones that allow us to be able to chase our dreams each week - on and off the race track - and I am very excited to be able to help raise awareness for the work that these great organizations are doing to give back to them."
Stenhouse's #17 Sprint Cup Ford Fusion will run a special paint scheme in the Sprint Cup Showdown. The partnership will help raise awareness to build a smart home for Tom McRae, a Marine Gunnery Sgt. who served three tours of duty in Iraq before suffering life altering injuries while on his second deployment in Afghanistan.
"We are honored that the Roush Fenway Racing team, and their driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr., are supporting our efforts to build 'smart' homes for our catastrophically injured military heroes," said Frank Siller, chairman of the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation. "By featuring our 'Building for America's Bravest' and 'Tunnel to Towers' logos on the paint scheme of Ricky's #17 Ford Fusion, they are helping to raise awareness for the work we're doing. Then, the fact that Lionel Racing will be making die-cast cars of the model, and donating a portion of the proceeds to us, makes it even more fantastic."
"Having Ricky Stenhouse Jr. drive his racecar in the All-Star Race with the 'Building for America's Bravest' logo is really cool," said McRae. "I can't thank him and the Roush Fenway Racing team enough. And to know that Lionel Racing is going to take Ricky's car and make die-cast models of it, and that part of the money raised from sales will go to building smart homes for military like me who've been badly injured, makes it really awesome."
The '9/11 Never Forget' mobile display is a traveling monument that honors those who lost their lives in the 9/11 attacks. It will be on hand at Roush Fenway for its annual fan day on May 22, marking its first appearance at the team's headquarters. The partnership marks the fourth season that RFR has teamed with the Stephen Siller Tunnel of Towers Foundation to raise awareness.(RFR / Lionel Racing), see an image of the scheme on the #17 Team Schemes page.(5-6-2014)

Jack Roush discusses possible engine changes: With NASCAR officials focusing on engine changes in the Sprint Cup Series for 2015 that will result in a reduction of horsepower, such a move should involve "a restriction on the intake side," according to Sprint Cup Series team co-owner [#16, #17, #99] Jack Roush. Roush, an owner in the series since 1988, isn't suggesting the use of restrictor plates similar to those used at Daytona and Talladega. Instead, he said, a reduction of the throttle bore size "without a plate underneath" would accomplish the objective. "(It is) straightforward and it is easily reversible if you decided that the quality of the racing was hurt by it," Roush said. "If they want to take 100 horsepower off ... reduce horsepower significantly, the least expensive and most palatable way to do that is with a restriction on the intake side." Today's Cup engines, limited to 358 cubic inches, produce approximately 850 horsepower. Speeds have increased, in part due to a new rules package and the continued development of the Generation-6 car, now in its second year. While officials with the three auto manufacturers currently involved at the series' top level, Chevrolet, Ford and Toyota, have been a part of the discussions, they say it is too early in the process to respond to potential engine changes. "From an owner's standpoint, NASCAR has got to be mindful of ... what it costs," Roush said. "The race teams can only afford to change so many things at a time. With the expanding technology and the engineering costs that everybody has with the pressure for sponsorship and investment in the sport, a dramatic or unnecessary engine change would not be welcome in my world."(see full article at NASCAR.com)(4-20-2014)

Roush Fenway Racing and EcoPower Re-Refined Oil Announce Multi-Year Partnership: Fresh off its one-two finish at Bristol Motor Speedway last weekend, Roush Fenway Racing (RFR) announced a multi-year team-wide partnership with Safety-Kleen and its premium re-refined motor oil brand, EcoPower. EcoPower will serve as the official oil partner of NASCAR's winningest team, as well as the primary sponsor for multiple races with the #17 Sprint Cup Ford and driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. The #17 EcoPower Ford Fusion will make its debut at Michigan International Speedway in June (and four other races). "We are pleased to have EcoPower on board as our official oil partner," said team owner Jack Roush. "The partnership reflects Roush Fenway's commitment to both sustainability and using highest quality products. EcoPower protects engines and protects the environment. We have had great success in our race cars with re-refined oil and we look forward to continuing that success with EcoPower, while promoting environmental responsibility throughout this season and into the future."
"The environmental benefits of re-refined oils have been rigorously evaluated and proven," said Curt Knapp, Safety-Kleen executive vice president, marketing and oil re-refining sales. "Fleet operators and consumers want to be absolutely confident that the oil will protect their valuable investment. We can't think of a stronger, more authentic endorsement for EcoPower than Jack Roush using it in his race cars to achieve peak protection and performance."
EcoPower re-refined oil helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80%. And it requires up to 85% less energy to produce than oil made from virgin crude, because it has already been refined. It also helps reduce America's dependence on foreign oil. That's why car dealerships, quick lubes, other DIFM installers, consumers and fleets rely on EcoPower to protect engines and protect the environment.
Safety-Kleen is a founding partner of NASCAR Green; an initiative focused on making NASCAR the greenest sport. Safety-Kleen collects all used fluids from the tracks during race weekends - and from most team facilities year round - and then recycles or responsibly disposes of those fluids. The used motor oil collected from all of these sources, including RFR's race cars, will find its way back into EcoPower. This "closed-loop" philosophy is by far the most environmentally responsible approach to handling used oil. EcoPower is more than just engine oil. It is part of a much bigger effort by Safety-Kleen, the largest collector and re-refiner of used oil in the world. In 2013, Safety-Kleen collected over 220 million gallons of used oil. EcoPower doesn't just conserve resources; it protects them by keeping used motor oil out of our land and groundwater, making it truly an oil change for the better.(Roush Fenway Racing)(3-20-2014)

Nationwide Insurance Features Ricky Stenhouse Jr. in the Driver's First National Television Campaign: The 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Sunoco Rookie of the Year, Ricky Stenhouse Jr., seeks to improve his performance on the track and off as the Nationwide Insurance member debuts his first national television commercial for a sponsor. The spot airs for the first time on Saturday, Feb. 22 during the NASCAR Nationwide Series Drive4COPD 300 race at Daytona International Speedway. "Spotter" brings to life how NASCAR spotters are looking out for their driver's best interests, just as Nationwide does for its members. The commercial also airs during "The Great American Race" on Sunday, Feb. 23 on Fox and throughout the 2014 NASCAR season. Stenhouse also will be featured in a co-branded consumer promotion for Nationwide Insurance and ESPN. NASCAR fans are able to register to win a 2014 Ford Mustang beginning Thursday, Feb. 20 at espn.com/nationwide.(PR)(2-22-2014)

Stenhouse Jr. and Zest offer PSA to help those in need: #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and one of his primary sponsors, Zest personal care brand, have teamed up to tackle a serious issue across the country, joining Family-to-Family.org to create a public service announcement video. The program that Stenhouse promotes in the PSA, called Shower To The People, addresses the serious and sadly overlooked issue of getting basic personal care items into the hands of people who struggle to afford them. The PSA starring Ricky Stenhouse Jr. will debut this weekend on the big screen at Daytona International Speedway. In it, Stenhouse Jr. addresses a serious and sadly overlooked issue: getting basic personal care items into the hands of people who struggle to afford them.(PR)(2-22-2014)

Stenhouse Jr. running open wheel race UPDATE: Ricky Stenhouse Jr. wants a checkered flag for Christmas - well, sort of. The Roush Fenway Racing driver will get back behind the wheel this Saturday, going back to his short-track, open-wheel roots in DuQuoin, Illinois. Stenhouse will compete in the fifth annual Great Clips Battle at the Center on the one-sixth Mini-Magic Mile at the Southern Illinois Center, located on the grounds of the DuQuoin State Fair. The Battle at the Center is a non-points all-star race put on by the POWRi Lucas Oil National Midget Series. It'll be Stenhouse's second bid to win at DuQuoin, having finished second in the inaugural Battle at the Center in 2010. He'll be driving for Bryan Clauson Racing as a tune-up of sorts for next month's Lucas Oil Chili Bowl in Tulsa, Okla., from Jan. 12-17. It'll be Stenhouse's third try to win the Chili Bowl, having finished ninth in 2012, but failed to advance out of the B feature last year. (NBC Sports)(12-20-2014)
UPDATE: Going back to his midget car roots, NASCAR Sprint Cup driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. shook off a couple of late-race mishaps to finish eighth in Saturday's fifth annual Great Clips Battle at the Center at the Southern Illinois Center of the DuQuoin State Fairgrounds. Joey Saldana of Brownsburg, Indiana, led the last five laps of the 40-lap main event around the 1/6-mile racetrack to take home the victory in the POWRi Lucas Oil National Midget Series event. Bryan Clauson finished second, followed by Justin Peck, Spencer Bayston, Daniel Robinson, Andrew Felker, Kevin Ramey, Stenhouse, Tim Siner and Jody Rosenboom. On Lap 26, as Stenhouse tried to make a run for the lead, he was involved in a four-car tangle involving race leader Clauson, Christopher Bell (running second at the time) and 2012 POWRi Lucas Oil National Midget Series champ Andrew Felker. With three laps left in the race, Stenhouse was collected in a six-car pileup that ended his hopes of a top-five finish, but still managed to wind up with a decent eighth-place showing in the 21-car field.(NBC Sports)(12-22-2014)

Yates Denies Rumors of Roush Fenway Buyout: Roush Yates Engines CEO Doug Yates responded yesterday (Dec 4th) to rumors that he will replace Jack Roush at the helm of Roush Fenway Racing when Roush steps down in the near future. "Jack is committed to NASCAR racing," said Yates, son of legendary NASCAR engine builder and team owner Robert Yates. "He loves two things besides his family; racing and flying airplanes. He is not planning to stop the racing part, anyway. I know that for a fact." Yates admitted, however, that he is interested in following his father into the ownership ranks one day. "It's flattering to hear my name out there (in the rumor mill) and if the right situation came along, I'd love to carry on what my dad started and what he accomplished. But right now, my focus is on building great engines for Ford Motor Company and making Ford and Roush proud. That's what I'm going to try to stick with and be focused on in the near future. Jack Roush is not going anywhere" he said, "...and one thing he's not going to do is quit before he gets (Roush Fenway Racing) back where he wants it." Yates also said Roush has been instrumental in his success as an engine builder, adding, "He's been really good to me... a lot like my dad. I've been so fortunate to learn and watch and be around him. He's taught me a lot."(Godfather Motorsports)(12-5-2014)

#17 team has parts confiscated, could face penalty UPDATES: NASCAR announced late Friday that officials have confiscated the rear-end suspension parts on Ricky Stenhouse Jr.'s #17 Ford Fusion after finding an issue during prequalifying inspection for Sunday's Ford EcoBoost 400 at Homestead-Miami Speedway. NASCAR spokesman Kerry Tharp said Saturday afternoon that NASCAR will take Stenhouse's rear-end suspension back to the NASCAR Research and Development Center in Concord, N.C., for further evaluation early next week. Any penalties resulting from the issue on Stenhouse's car will likely be handed down on Tuesday -- two days after the season's final race -- and could affect the final points standings.(FoxSports)(11-16-2014)
UPDATE Roush Fenway Racing's Ricky Stenhouse Jr. faces a likely points penalty for rear suspension pieces confiscated during pre-qualifying inspection Friday. Pemberton said NASCAR will begin its review of the Stenhouse suspensions pieces Monday. Having unapproved rear suspension parts is considered a P5 penalty on NASCAR's penalty system, meaning it could be as much as a penalty of 50 points, a fine of up to $125,000 and a six-week suspension for crew chief Mike Kelley.(Sporting News)(11-17-2014)
UPDATE 2: The #17 team that competes in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series has been penalized for a rules infraction discovered during pre-qualifying inspection Nov. 14 at Homestead-Miami Speedway. This infraction is a P3 level penalty which is outlined in Section 12-4.3 of the 2014 NASCAR rule book:
Violations resulting in P3 penalties tend to fall between serious and intermediate in nature. While they might include general "categories" of infractions similar to those in P4 (e.g. unauthorized parts; failing to meet specs; etc.), they tend to pertain more to secondary componentry or systems; modifications of lessor significance; go/no-go measurement failures of an intermediate nature.
This infraction violates Sections:
12-1 - Actions detrimental to stock car racing;
20-12 - Suspension: All front end and rear suspension mounts and mounting hardware must not allow movement or realignment of any suspension/drive line component beyond normal rotation or suspension/drive line travel.
As a result of these violations, crew chief Mike Kelley has been fined $50,000 and placed on NASCAR probation for six months starting Jan. 1, 2015 through June 30, 2015. Additionally, car chief Patrick Magee has also been placed on NASCAR probation for six months starting Jan. 1, 2015 through June 30, 2015.(NASCAR)(11-20-2014)

Changes at Roush Fenway Racing UPDATE: Roush Fenway Racing is taking steps to right the ship. On Wednesday, RFR will announce the addition of respected motosports manager Mark McArdle as engineering director. McArdle will oversee all engineering for the organization and report to general manager Robbie Reiser. "My role is to provide the organization with better vision, increased levels of direction and communication to allow all the available resources to work together to find the solutions to the basic core problem of car performance," McArdle said. McArdle most recently was director of racing operations at Richard Childress Racing. He held the position since the summer of 2013 after four seasons with Furniture Row Racing in Denver. The last two years at FRR, McArdle served as an intermediary in the teams' technical alliance. He moved back to North Carolina to be closer to his family - ultimately the reason McArdle chose to leave RCR and join RFR, which cuts his commute in half. McArdle acknowledged he was grateful for the opportunity with Richard Childress and still has tremendous respect for the organization. Although McArdle will join RFR at the track this weekend at Phoenix International Raceway, he only expects to be on the road 25-percent of the time in order to focus on the challenges back at the Concord, N.C.-based shop.
RFR has also hired Kevin Kidd as its Sprint Cup team manager. Kidd, who currently oversees the #20 Nationwide Series team for Joe Gibbs Racing, earned an engineering degree at Virginia Tech. He also worked with McArdle as the race engineer on the #19 at Evernham Motorsports. Kidd's role will be similar to Eric Peterson, who was Roush Fenway's operations manager before overseeing the Nationwide Series program.(Motorsport)(11-5-2014)
UPDATE: Roush Fenway Racing has announced the hiring of two industry veterans to senior positions in its competition group. Mark McArdle will oversee engineering for the organization's NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) and NASCAR Xfinity Series (NXS) teams. Kevin Kidd will serve as NSCS team manager, supervising at-track operations beginning next season for an organization that has placed multiple cars in the 'Chase' in all 10 seasons of the format's existence. "I'm confident that having Mark and Kevin in these two key positions will make our organization even stronger next season," said team co-owner Jack Roush. "Mark has a pedigree in racing that spans multiple platforms and speaks for itself in terms of results. He has a reputation not only for success, but as a great manager and motivator. Kevin is recognized in the garage as one of the brightest minds in our sport. He has acquired invaluable experience working with both veteran and young drivers, and will be a great asset to our Sprint Cup program week in and week out at the race track. We look forward to bringing both Mark and Kevin on board and welcoming them into the fold."
McArdle, a successful veteran of IndyCar and NASCAR racing, has been named engineering director and will directly oversee Roush Fenway's engineering efforts. A renowned engine builder, McArdle boasts three victories in the famed Indianapolis 500 with Penske Racing in 1991, 1993 and 1994, having worked with a litany of open-wheel legends including Ricky Mears, Emerson Fittipaldi, Al Unser Jr. and Michael Andretti. McArdle has spent the last 15 years working in NASCAR, having served in high-level positions with Roush Yates Engines, Evernham Motorsports, Furniture Row Racing and most recently as director of racing operation at Richard Childress Racing.
"Roush Fenway Racing has a tradition and history of success like none other in motorsports, and I'm thrilled to be a part of it," said McArdle. "I've always had a very deep respect for Jack Roush and his entire organization, and know that the expectation for him, his drivers, teams and sponsors is to win races and championships at every level. I look forward to becoming part of that winning tradition, and to continuing it in 2015 and beyond."
Kevin Kidd has been named NSCS team manager. He will join Roush Fenway after having served as the crew chief for the No. 20 NASCAR Nationwide Series team at Joe Gibbs Racing since 2010. During that time he guided his teams to nearly 90 top-10 finishes in 167 starts with veteran drivers such as Matt Kenseth, Joey Logano and Denny Hamlin, as well as a host of developmental drivers. "Roush Fenway is a perennial 'Chase' contender with three extremely talented drivers in the 2015 line-up," said Kidd. "All of the right resources are in position to place all three of those drivers into the 'Chase' next season, and that will be our goal. I've had a great deal of experience working with both veterans and younger drivers, and this organization has a great mix of that with Greg Biffle, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Trevor Bayne. I look forward to the opportunity to work with each of them, their teams and everyone at Roush Fenway." Kidd will move into his new role at the conclusion of the 2014 season.(Roush Fenway Racing)(11-6-2014)

Roush cars to carry special decals on cars in Nov.: Throughout the month of November, Roush Fenway Racing will support partners Lilly Diabetes and the American Diabetes Association as they highlight American Diabetes Month and World Diabetes Day (November 14). In addition to unique video and social content, the team will carry special decals on all six of its Fords in both the NASCAR Nationwide Series [#6, #16, #60] and NASCAR Sprint Cup Series [#16, #17, #99] during the month )of November). "Diabetes is obviously something that hits very close to home for me, so I really appreciate that our entire Roush Fenway team and partners are helping to raise awareness during the month of November," said Ryan Reed, driver of the #16 American Diabetes Association Drive to Stop DiabetesSM presented by Lilly Diabetes Ford Mustang (in the NNS). "I'm proud of the work that both the American Diabetes Association and Lilly Diabetes do, and am excited to draw more attention to that." Diabetes impacts nearly 30 million children and adults in the United States, with another 86 million having prediabetes and are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes. American Diabetes Month takes place each November, with the goal of raising awareness of this ever-growing epidemic, with programs designed to focus the nation's attention on the issues surrounding diabetes and the many people who are impacted by the disease.(RFR)(11-1-2014)

Pink cars for Roush Fenway at Martinsville: Roush Fenway Racing drivers #16-Biffle, #17-Stenhouse, Jr., and #99-Edwards will go pink for Martinsville Speedway in support of the National Breast Cancer Foundation and the early detection plan app.(Roush Fenway), see images of the cars on the #16 team paint schemes, #17 team paint schemes, and #99 team paint schemes pages.(10-24-2014)

Roush to be inducted into Kentucky Motorsports Hall of Fame: Legendary motorsports team owner and innovator Jack Roush has long been identified with the state of Michigan, where his corporate empire is headquartered in Livonia (suburban Detroit). While he may have committed the last several decades of his racing career to the blue oval of Ford, the man nicknamed "The Cat In the Hat" is actually a native of the Bluegrass State. And because of that distinction, Roush, who was born in Covington, Ky., will be one of 13 new members inducted Saturday into the Kentucky Motorsports Hall of Fame in Owensboro. Induction into the Kentucky Hall is one of countless honors Roush has received in his career, including the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in 2006 and the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame in 2010.(NBC Sports)(10-24-2014)

Roush Fenway Racing "Fan Day" Set for Thursday, October 9: Roush Fenway Racing will hold its annual "Fall Fan Day" on Thursday, Oct. 9 at its team headquarters. Team owner Jack Roush and NASCAR drivers Greg Biffle, Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Carl Edwards, Trevor Bayne, Ryan Reed and Chris Buescher will be on hand to interact with fans and sign autographs. Sirius/XM NASCAR Radio (Ch. 90) will again broadcast its popular "Tradin' Paint" mid-day program with Jim Noble and Chocolate Myers live from the event. In addition, Roush Fenway will host a live "Google+ Hangout" on its award-winning Google+ platform beginning at 10:00 a.m. Also featured will be a Fan Day 'Selfie' booth, where fans will be encouraged to take selfie photos with special pink props, highlighting Roush Fenway's 'Pit for a Pair' program to raise awareness for the National Breast Cancer Foundation and National Breast Cancer awareness month. Fans will be encouraged to tag the photos with the special hashtag #Pit4APair, as well as vote for one of two pink items that the Roush Fenway drivers will wear during driver introductions later in the month at Martinsville Speedway. Ticket distribution for the autograph sessions will be held on site and begin at 8:00 am/et.(RFR), more info at roushfenway.com.(10-2-2014)

Fifth Third Bank renews with #17 Roush Fenway Racing team: Roush Fenway Racing today announced that Fifth Third Bank has renewed its relationship as a primary sponsor of the #17 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) Ford with driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. in a multi-year deal (supposedly thru 2017). "We are really thrilled to have Fifth Third Bank back with us next season" said Stenhouse, who is currently competing in his sophomore season at NASCAR's highest level. "It has been an honor to represent Fifth Third over the past two seasons and I am looking forward to working with them over the years to come. We have them on the car here in Atlanta this weekend and again in Richmond next weekend. Hopefully we can celebrate this announcement with a trip to victory lane and a 'Chase' berth for the #17 team." Fifth Third Bank came onboard with Roush Fenway Racing in 2012 and has served as a primary sponsor on the #17 NSCS entry for the past three seasons. "Fifth Third Bank is proud to extend our relationship with Roush Fenway Racing and Ricky Stenhouse, Jr.," said Greg Carmichael, President and COO of Fifth Third Bank. "Our two companies share many of the same values including a commitment to teamwork and a drive to compete at the highest level. We look forward to continuing our relationship with Roush Fenway Racing and delivering innovative financial solutions to companies associated with the motorsports industry."
Stenhouse Jr., who captured NSCS Rookie of the Year honors in 2013, is a two-time NASCAR champion after winning back-to-back titles in the NASCAR Nationwide Series in 2011 and 2012. He will make his 66th career Sprint Cup Series start this weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway, with a career best finish of second earlier this year at Bristol.
"Fifth Third Bank been a terrific supporter of Roush Fenway's race cars on the track for the last three years, but our business relationship with them goes back much further," said Roush Fenway president Steve Newmark. "The best relationships for our team are ones where we can realize synergies across multiple touch points. Our relationship with Fifth Third Bank is a great example of that as we rely on them for all of our banking needs and they have been an integral part of our daily business operations for many years. We are thrilled to be able to continue working with them and supporting their commitment to motorsports for many years to come."(RFR)(8-31-2014)

Stenhouse Reveals 2015 Fastenal Fusion at Fastenal Headquarters: #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. traveled to Fastenal headquarters in Winona, Minnesota last week to unveil the 2015 #17 Fastenal Ford Fusion in front of the 'Blue Team'. "It was great to unveil our 2015 Fastenal paint scheme at Fastenal's headquarters in front of their employees," Stenhouse said. "I got to meet a lot of individuals and their excitement has me looking forward to the 2015 season. On our tour, they showed me a wall that was designated for win banners so our #17 team will have to work on that for them." In Indianapolis, Roush Fenway Racing announced that long-time partner Fastenal will serve as the anchor partner on the #17 Ford in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series for a multi-year agreement beginning next season. Fastenal first joined with Roush Fenway in 2010 and has served as a primary partner for multiple Roush Fenway teams and drivers in both the NASCAR Nationwide Series (NNS) and NSCS.(RFR), see images of the scheme on the 2015 #17 Team Schemes page.(8-23-2014)

Mark Martin returns to Roush...as a coach UPDATE: Roush Fenway Racing announces that legendary NASCAR driver Mark Martin is returning to the race team where he excelled behind the wheel for almost 20 years - this time as the team's driver development coach. Martin was the first driver hired by team owner Jack Roush when he founded his NASCAR operation in 1988. The two went on to become one of the most successful duos in sports history, accumulating 83 NASCAR wins, four NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Championship runner-up finishes, and building Roush Fenway into the winningest team in NASCAR history.
"I'm excited to return to Roush Fenway Racing, as it feels like I'm going home to where I belong," said Martin. "I was fortunate to help build this team from the beginning and it's very humbling to be a part of Jack's team again. When Jack first hired me in 1988 we didn't talk about salary or benefits or perks, we talked about testing, tires and putting the right personnel into place to win on the track. That commitment is what stood out to me then and it's still what stands out to me today."
Martin piloted Roush Fenway's flagship #6 Ford from 1988 until 2006. During that time he accumulated 35 NSCS victories. At the end of his tenure at Roush Fenway he held a record five prestigious IROC (International Race of Champions) Championships and a then record 47 NASCAR Nationwide Series wins. For his career Martin posted 96 career NASCAR victories.(Roush Fenway Racing)(7-31-2014)
UPDATE: Mark Martin is back working for Jack Roush. As a driver coach, not as a driver. The 55-year-old Martin has enjoyed his time away from the track this season. He has spent the last two years driving in most, but not all, of the Cup races. "I don't ever flip on the TV and wish I was there," Martin said in a phone interview Friday morning. "I am happy where I am at. It's probably less (of an urge) than I even expected to get back into a racecar." While at Roush Fenway Racing from 1988-2006, Martin earned 35 of his 40 career Cup wins and four of his five career runnerup finishes in the standings. Since then, he has run five part-time seasons and three full-time seasons. He has 882 Cup starts, and it appears he's not all that interested in 883. "You know me well enough to know that I'm not going to say (never)," Martin said. "But I'll just tell you I have no interest at this time. I have no interest in even practicing a car or testing a car at this time.(Sporting News)(8-2-2014)

Zest renews sponsorship of Stenhouse, Jr.: Roush Fenway Racing announced that it has extended its partnership with Zest and the #17 Ford Fusion driven by two-time NASCAR champion Ricky Stenhouse Jr., into the 2015 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series season. Zest first joined Roush Fenway in 2012 and has served as a primary partner on the #17 Ford in NSCS competition the past three seasons. The company will again serve as a primary for Stenhouse for multiple races in 2015, as well as a season-long associate for the #17 entry.(Roush Fenway Racing)(7-30-2014)

Roush Fenway Racing Announces 2015 NASCAR Sprint Cup Lineup: Roush Fenway Racing's 2015 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) lineup will consist of three teams anchored by two-time NASCAR champion Greg Biffle. Biffle, driver of the #16 Ford and Ricky Stenhouse Jr., driver of the #17 Ford and also a two-time NASCAR champion will be joined by Daytona 500 champion Trevor Bayne in the #6 Ford. The lineup features a veteran perennial 'Chase' contender in Biffle - who is currently competing to become the first driver to win a championship at all three of NACAR's premiere series - as well as two of the sport's most promising up and coming drivers.
"I have had the privilege of fielding entries for the world's best race car drivers in NASCAR for nearly 30 years, and feel quite fortunate to have an opportunity to do that again next year," said team co-owner Jack Roush. "We have always prided ourselves in developing talent at Roush Fenway, and our 2015 line-up is a testament to the success of our organization in that respect. Greg Biffle is one of the most purely talented racers I've ever seen behind the wheel of a car, and his experience combined with the raw natural abilities, enthusiasm and desire in both Ricky Stenhouse, Jr. and Trevor Bayne have me very excited for the future. Although we still have a lot to accomplish this year, both John Henry and I are looking forward to going to the track in 2015 with this blend of veteran leadership and youthful potential."
Biffle, who has 746 NASCAR starts, first joined Roush Fenway in 1998, and earned the organization its first NASCAR championships in the NASCAR Truck Series in 2000 and in the NASCAR Nationwide Series (NNS) in 2002. He has qualified for the NASCAR Chase for the Sprint Cup in five of the last six seasons; with a runner-up finish in 2005. Of his 55 NASCAR wins, 19 came in the NSCS, including Ford's 1,000th NASCAR victory last year.
"I don't have the words for what Jack Roush has meant to my career," said Biffle. "During our 16 years together, we have won multiple championships and numerous races on every level. I am as excited about what the future holds for me here as I am about what we have been able to accomplish in the past. Our goal remains to run up front, win races and become the sports' first triple-crown winner by having a championship in all three series. I know that we have the right ownership, the right team, the right resources and the right manufacturer to get that done here here at Roush Fenway."
Stenhouse joined Roush Fenway in 2008, going on to win back-to-back NNS championships in 2011 and 2012. In addition, he captured NASCAR rookie honors in NNS and NSCS in 2010 and 2013, respectively. Bayne, the 2011 Daytona 500 Champion, joined Roush Fenway in 2010 and has competed full-time in the NNS, while also running a limited NSCS schedule with Wood Brothers Racing. He will make the transition to full-time NSCS racing with AdvoCare as his primary partner on Roush Fenway's iconic #6 Ford.
#99-Carl Edwards will not be with the team for the 2015 season. "I will always be thankful for Carl's contribution and the role he played in many Roush Fenway wins and championships," said Roush. "We wish him well for the future. In the meantime, we are excited about continuing our quest for a championship with Carl and the #99 team in 2014."(RFR), rumors have Edwards going to Joe Gibbs Racing in 2015, but nothing is expected to be announced until September 2014.(7-27-2014)

Fastenal to Serve as Primary Partner for Stenhouse in 2015: Roush Fenway Racing announced that long-time partner Fastenal will team with Ricky Stenhouse Jr., serving as the anchor sponsor on the #17 Ford in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) for a multi-year agreement beginning next season. Fastenal first joined with Roush Fenway in 2010 and has served as a primary partner for multiple Roush Fenway teams and drivers in both the NASCAR Nationwide Series (NNS) and NSCS. "Fastenal is a first class partner and we are extremely pleased to have them team with Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and the #17 team starting next year," said Roush Fenway co-owner Jack Roush. "Ricky has accomplished a great deal in a short time, and continues to improve each week. We have very high expectations for his success in the future and I'm thrilled that Fastenal will be a part of that."
Stenhouse, who earned NSCS rookie of the year honors in 2013, will move into his third full-season of Sprint Cup competition in 2015. Considered one of the most talented up-and-coming drivers on the circuit, Stenhouse posted back-to-back NNS championships in 2011 and 2012.
Fastenal is currently in its third season as a primary partner on the #99 NSCS entry driven by Carl Edwards, and was the primary partner on the #60 NNS team that captured the owner's championship in 2011. Fastenal has also served in a limited role as a primary partner for the #16 and #17 NSCS teams the past two seasons.
"We appreciate everything Carl has done and wish him nothing but the best," said Fastenal President Lee Hein. "That said, we're looking forward to continuing our partnership with Roush Fenway Racing as the anchor sponsor of the #17. We already have a strong relationship with Ricky, and we're 100% confident that he'll do a great job representing our company on and off the track."
"As a driver, I'm thrilled to have Fastenal on board for next season," said Stenhouse. "I grew up working in a race shop, helping my dad build cars and racing engines. I appreciate the chance to work with a partner like Fastenal that plays such an important role in building our race cars and helping us win on the track. I've had the opportunity to work with them in the past and meet a lot of the men and women that are part of the 'Blue Team.' I look forward to representing them on the racetrack, and to taking them to victory lane."(RFR)(7-27-2014)

EcoPower returns to sponsor Stenhouse Jr. at Indy: Ecopower Re-Refined Oil will serve as the primary sponsor at Indianapolis on the #17 EcoPower Ford Fusion, driven by Ricky Stenhouse Jr. EcoPower is a recently introduced brand of motor oil that is re-cycled and re-refined from used lubricating oils. It protects engines and protects the environment. EcoPower is primarily sold to large corporate and government fleets, as well as consumers through do-it-for-me oil change outlets. EcoPower is by far the largest seller of lubricants to the U.S. Military for all branches all over the World; Safety-Kleen has been the majority supplier for almost 20 years. EcoPower protects some of the largest State and municipal fleets.(RFR), see images of the car on the #17 Team Schemes page.(7-25-2014)

Roush Fenway tests at Michigan: Roush Fenway Racing Cup drivers #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr., #16-Greg Biffle and #99-Carl Edwards spent Monday and Tuesday using one of their NASCAR allotted tests at Michigan International Speedway in preparation for both the August MIS race and this weekend's Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.(Ford Racing)(7-23-2014)

Hamlin, Stenhouse, Waltrip compete on golf tournament: #11-Denny Hamlin, #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr., and #66-Michael Waltrip competed in the 2014 American Century Championship at Lake Tahoe over the weekend. Stenhouse was initially the favorite of the group, listed at 50-1 odds by Harrah's/Harveys Lake Tahoe Race & Sports Book to win. Hamlin and Waltrip were both listed at 200-1. The American Century Championship was celebrating its 25th Anniversary this year with a special salute to America's Armed Forces. As part of that initiative, Col. Chad Pfeifer, three-time winner of President George W. Bush's Warrior Open and the 2011 National Amputee Tournament champion, joined the field. Pfeifer lost his leg in an IED explosion while on patrol in Iraq in 2007.
At the conclusion of the tournament, Hamlin was 55th, Stenhouse was tied for 56th, and Waltrip finished tied for 71st. The tournament was won by former NFL quarterback Mark Rypien. See more about the tournament on the NASCAR Related Charities Events and News page.(7-21-2014)

Sprint Cup teams form Race Team Alliance UPDATE: A group of nine multi-car teams participating in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series (NSCS) announced today they have formed a collaborative business association called the Race Team Alliance (RTA). The purpose of the organization is to create an open forum for the teams to explore areas of common interest and to work collaboratively on initiatives to help preserve, promote, and grow the sport of stock car racing. The organization intends to open up its membership to all full time NSCS teams in the very near future. In providing a vehicle for the teams to work together, the organization creates for the first time a single entity to engage with stakeholders on creative ways to market and experience the power of the sport's teams and drivers. As part of its focus, the RTA also plans to explore innovative ways to harness the combined purchasing power and scale of the teams' operations to drive efficiencies in costs. Rob Kauffman, co-owner of Michael Waltrip Racing, has been elected the first chair of the RTA.
"With the encouragement of NASCAR and the manufacturers, the teams have met in various forms and forums over the years to explore areas of common interest. This simply formalizes what was an informal group." said Kauffman. "The key word is 'Collaboration'. We all have vested interests in the success and popularity of stock car racing. By working together and speaking with a single voice, it should be a simpler and smoother process to work with current and potential groups involved with the sport. Whether it be looking for industry-wide travel partners or collaborating on technical issues - the idea is to work together to increase revenue, spend more efficiently, and deliver more value to our partners."
The following teams are the executive members of the RTA: Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates, Hendrick Motor Sports, Joe Gibbs Racing, Michael Waltrip Racing, Richard Childress Racing, Richard Petty Motor Sports, Roush Fenway Racing, Stewart-Haas Racing and Team Penske.(RTA)(7-7-2014)
UPDATE: Statement from NASCAR: "We are aware of the alliance concept the team owners have announced, but have very few specifics on its structure or purpose. It is apparently still in development and we're still learning about the details so it would be inappropriate to comment right now. NASCAR's mission, as it has always been, is to create a fair playing field where anyone can come and compete. Our job is to support and strengthen all of the teams, large and small, across all of our series and we'll continue to do that. NASCAR is a unique community with hundreds of stakeholders. They all have a voice and always will."(NASCAR)(7-7-2014)

Cargill makes first appearance on Stenhouse, Jr's car: Cargill will make its debut on the #17 at Daytona International Speedway in the July 5th Coke Zero 400. Cargill provides food, agriculture, financial and industrial products and services to the world. Cargill has 143,000 employees in 67 countries who are committed to feeding the world in a responsible way. Cargill is also one of the largest beef producers in the U.S. Cargill previously partnered with Stenhouse and NASCAR champion crew chief Mike Kelley during the duo's back-to-back NASCAR Nationwide Series Championships in 2011 and 2012. Cargill first joined Roush Fenway Racing during the 2010 season.(Roush Fenway Racing), see an image of the car on the #17 team paint schemes page.(7-3-2014)

Ecopower Re-Refined Oil returns to the #17 at Sonoma: EcoPower will serve as the primary sponsor on the #17 EcoPower Ford Fusion, driven by Ricky Stenhouse Jr. for the 2nd of fiv races at Sonoma Raceway. EcoPower is a recently introduced brand of motor oil that is re-cycled and re-refined from used lubricating oils. It protects engines and protects the environment. EcoPower debuted as the primarily sponsor at Michigan last week (RFR), see images of the car on the #17 Team Schemes page.(6-21-2014)

Five drivers to run K&N Pro Series West race: #42-Kyle Larson, #3-Austin Dillon, #7-Michael Annett, #51-Justin Allgaier and #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. are entered in the NASCAR K&N Pro Series West race at Sonoma Raceway this weekend. They're seeking additional road course experience before Sunday's Sprint Cup race there.(Motor Racing Network)(6-18-2014)

Jack Roush comments on 2015 driver lineup and performance: car owner Jack Roush participated in a press conference this morning announcing their involvement with EcoPower re-refined motor oil, produced by Safety-Kleen. In addition, team owner Jack Roush answered questions regarding the 2014 season and 2015, the transcript in part:
Q) WHERE DO YOU FEEL YOUR PROGRAM IS AT THIS POINT AND DO YOU HAVE ANY UPDATE ON YOUR DRIVER LINEUP FOR NEXT YEAR?
Roush: "In due time we'll have announcements for 2015. We've got a lot of 2014 in front of us and we're obviously focused on that. If you looked at our year we've been probably challenged more than some of the teams have with the difference in the ride height. I know that's changed the dynamic of the underbody of the car and it's been a revelation. How low is low enough and how low is too low. Too low is higher than we thought it might have been a month ago and we're sorting that out. We're committing to test as much as we can. We've got a test going somewhere virtually every week, either a tire test at a NASCAR race track - a sanctioned test - or a bootlegged race track test that's not on the NASCAR circuit, so we're testing. We're running our eight-post machine in the lab real hard and we're taking very careful note of the ride height changes on the race track and where we seem to have our challenge and our best result returned. I think that most of the answer for the things that we need are in our box of parts - it's the bump stops, it's a rubber, it's those spring combinations - it's the roll bars. We don't seem to have a kinematic problem. We don't seem to have a fundamental error problem. Certainly the Penske guys are running really well with very similar cars and we've just got to get back to where we need to be. This business cycles. We've had times when we've been the cars to beat for an extended period of time to everybody's frustration and now we're just struggling to get back to where we need to be."(Ford Racing)(6-13-2014)

Ecopower Re-Refined Oil debuts on the #17 at MIS: EcoPower will serve as the primary sponsor on the #17 EcoPower Ford Fusion, driven by Ricky Stenhouse Jr. for five races in the NSCS - with the first race being this weekend at MIS. EcoPower is a recently introduced brand of motor oil that is re-cycled and re-refined from used lubricating oils. It protects engines and protects the environment. EcoPower is primarily sold to large corporate and government fleets, as well as consumers through do-it-for-me oil change outlets. EcoPower is by far the largest seller of lubricants to the U.S. Military for all branches all over the World; Safety-Kleen has been the majority supplier for almost 20 years. EcoPower protects some of the largest State and municipal fleets (RFR), see images of the car on the #17 Team Schemes page.(6-13-2014)

Fastenal to Honor Military Workforce with Three Car Salute at CMS: For the third straight year, Fastenal will display appreciation for our nation's military forces through its sponsorship of the entire Roush Fenway Racing (RFR) fleet at the Coca-Cola 600. The patriotic paint schemes that will grace the racecars of #99-Carl Edwards, #16-Greg Biffle and #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. represent the organization's gratitude to military personnel who are a part of the Fastenal Blue Team as well as all other men and women who have served our country. In 2013, Fastenal held an essay contest for its active and retired military employees, selecting three winners who were individually featured on the hoods of the #99, #17 and #16 cars. This year, 630 Fastenal employees who have represented our great nation will see their names under the lights of Charlotte Motor Speedway as they are proudly displayed on the hood of the #99.
"Behind every one of those names is a story of tremendous sacrifice," said Fastenal President Lee Hein. "It's our small way of paying tribute to their service and letting them know that we couldn't be more proud to have them as members of the Fastenal Blue Team."
Twelve of the 630 veterans highlighted on the hood of Edward's car will be in attendance at Charlotte Motor Speedway this Memorial Day weekend for a behind-the-scenes experience at the 55th running of the Coca-Cola 600. Former Army Sergeant Robert Thompson, who now works out of Lincolnton, N.C. as a Fastenal Sales Associate, is proud to be part of an organization that recognizes its large military workforce.
"It feels pretty awesome that I work for a company like Fastenal that honors, respects and values veterans," said Thompson. "In the short time that I have been with Fastenal I have come to find out that there are a lot of veterans at the company. They realize that the military gives their personnel a wide assortment of skills. It's great to see that Fastenal understands that and hires us to perform those skills."
In addition, Fastenal would like to acknowledge Roush Fenway Racing employee and veteran Randy Fuller by including his name on the hood as an honorary Blue Team member. Fuller, who served in the Air Force for 26 years and retired as a Chief Master Sergeant, has been the Media Relations Manager for Edwards for over a decade. This is Fastenal's third season in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series as the primary sponsor for Edwards in the #99 Ford Fusion. (RFR / Fastenal Racing), see image of the schemes on the #99 Team Schemes page.(5-22-2014)

Cargill 'Beefs Up' Partnership with Roush Fenway, Stenhouse Jr.: Roush Fenway Racing has announced that long-standing partner Cargill Beef will move to the Sprint Cup Series, serving as a primary partner for the #17 team with NASCAR Champion driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. The pair will make its debut together at Daytona International Speedway in the July 5th Coke Zero 400. "We are pleased to continue to grow our partnership with Roush Fenway Racing and to reunite with Ricky Stenhouse Jr.," said John Keating, president of Cargill Beef. "We recognize that NASCAR fans love beef and they have proven to be brand loyal by supporting companies that back teams within the sport. This makes NASCAR an ideal marketing venue for Cargill and our customers. Beef is a perfect choice for NASCAR racing fans everywhere, including trackside grilling, and this partnership provides us the avenue to make Cargill Beef products their top choice." Cargill previously partnered with Stenhouse and NASCAR champion crew chief Mike Kelley during the duo's back-to-back NASCAR Nationwide Series Championships in 2011 and 2012. Cargill first joined Roush Fenway Racing during the 2010 season.
"It's only fitting that Cargill has opted to make the move up to Sprint Cup with Ricky," said team owner Jack Roush. "Cargill entered the sport in 2010 and took a chance on a young and unproven driver in Ricky. They went on to play a major role in his back-to-back Nationwide Series Championships, and we are excited to extend our relationship into the Sprint Cup Series as Ricky's career continues to grow and as his potential is further realized."
"I'm thrilled to have Cargill become a part of the #17 team," said Stenhouse. "They have been a great partner with Roush Fenway for the past four seasons and we had a great run with them in the Nationwide Series. It is our intention to pick up where we left off in 2012. I can't think of a better way to bring them into the Sprint Cup Series than racing for a win at Daytona on July 4th weekend -- the biggest grilling weekend of the year."
In addition to serving as a primary partner with Stenhouse in 2010, 2011 and 2012. Cargill teamed with Daytona 500 winner Trevor Bayne in 2013 in the Nationwide Series. "We are delighted to grow our partnership and to team up with Ricky coming off his Sprint Cup rookie-of-the-year season," stated Tammy Shaw, Cargill Beef vice president of marketing. "The enthusiasm we have experienced from our customers, employees, and race fans during our time with Roush Fenway Racing has confirmed that high quality beef products and NASCAR racing fit perfectly together. Our customers provide consumers value by promoting Cargill beef and our affiliation with Roush Fenway Racing on the NASCAR circuit has served as a clear point of differentiation. We look forward to another terrific season with Roush Fenway, Ricky and Mike and to continue to find unique ways to market our products and support our customers through NASCAR."
Cargill will serve as the primary partner on the #17 car for five races during the 2014 season. (RFR)(5-22-2014)

Roush Leads Kentucky HoF Inductees: One of the most successful team owners in all of motorsports, a legendary car show promoter and some of Louisville 's most successful short track oval racers will be part of the 2014 class of the Kentucky Motorsports Hall of Fame. The seventh annual induction ceremony will be held in October at the SpeedZeum inside the Owensboro Museum of Science and History in downtown Owensboro. Topping the class of 2014 is Covington native Jack Roush, whose motorsports career has spanned the upper echelon of NASCAR, drag racing, sports car racing and automotive aftermarket engineering and development.
Other members of this year's class include: Carl Casper and Chub Lorah of Louisville, promoters of the annual Carl Casper custom car show in Louisville; V.V. Cooke race team, a Louisville-based oval racing team; Hal Miller, of Owensboro , who built and promoted the first oval race track and drag strip in Owensboro; Bob Taylor of Louisville , a nationally recognized show car builder, painter and pin-stripe artist; Chuck Winders of Louisville, the most successful driver in the history of the former Louisville Motor Speedway. In addition, this year the Hall of Fame will present only its third Pioneer Award to Tony Schiller of Frankfort.(National Speed Sport News)(5-17-2014)

Roush Fenway Racing makes a change: Release of long-time Roush Fenway Racing lead engineer Chip Bolin signals change in direction for NASCAR powerhouse Chip Bolin and Roush Fenway Racing have parted ways. Roush Fenway Racing confirmed on Thursday morning that Bolin had been released. Bolin, 40, joined RFR in 1998 along with Bob Osborne to start the company's engineering department following an internship with Andy Petree Racing. The North, S.C.-native has worked in a variety of roles at RFR over the years including as both crew chief and team engineer. His first season was 1999, the same year Matt Kenseth and Robbie Reiser (now GM). Bolin became the #17 team engineer in 2001 and was an integral part of Kenseth's 2003 Sprint Cup championship. At the end of 2007 season when Reiser transitioned into a management role, Bolin was named crew chief for Kenseth's team. Bolin's release comes at a time when both of Roush's top drivers have contracts up for renewal. While Biffle insists it's his intent to remain with the organization, there has been a rash of speculation surrounding Edwards' plans.(Motorsport)(5-15-2014)

RFR, Stenhouse Jr. Building for America's Bravest at Shootout: Roush Fenway Racing and Ricky Stenhouse Jr. announced they are teaming with the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation to support the organizations' continued effort to build 'smart' homes for injured military heroes. In addition, the organizations' '9/11 Never Forget' mobile exhibit will make its return to its North Carolina roots at RFR's Fan Appreciation Day on May 22. The exhibit was built in North Carolina and was unveiled in Fayetteville in September 2013.
"It's a great cause and I am proud to carry their colors on our race car," said two-time NASCAR champion Ricky Stenhouse Jr. "It's our duty as American Citizens to give back to the guys that give everything for our freedom and are true heroes. They are the ones that allow us to be able to chase our dreams each week - on and off the race track - and I am very excited to be able to help raise awareness for the work that these great organizations are doing to give back to them."
Stenhouse's #17 Sprint Cup Ford Fusion will run a special paint scheme in the Sprint Cup Showdown. The partnership will help raise awareness to build a smart home for Tom McRae, a Marine Gunnery Sgt. who served three tours of duty in Iraq before suffering life altering injuries while on his second deployment in Afghanistan.
"We are honored that the Roush Fenway Racing team, and their driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr., are supporting our efforts to build 'smart' homes for our catastrophically injured military heroes," said Frank Siller, chairman of the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation. "By featuring our 'Building for America's Bravest' and 'Tunnel to Towers' logos on the paint scheme of Ricky's #17 Ford Fusion, they are helping to raise awareness for the work we're doing. Then, the fact that Lionel Racing will be making die-cast cars of the model, and donating a portion of the proceeds to us, makes it even more fantastic."
"Having Ricky Stenhouse Jr. drive his racecar in the All-Star Race with the 'Building for America's Bravest' logo is really cool," said McRae. "I can't thank him and the Roush Fenway Racing team enough. And to know that Lionel Racing is going to take Ricky's car and make die-cast models of it, and that part of the money raised from sales will go to building smart homes for military like me who've been badly injured, makes it really awesome."
The '9/11 Never Forget' mobile display is a traveling monument that honors those who lost their lives in the 9/11 attacks. It will be on hand at Roush Fenway for its annual fan day on May 22, marking its first appearance at the team's headquarters. The partnership marks the fourth season that RFR has teamed with the Stephen Siller Tunnel of Towers Foundation to raise awareness.(RFR / Lionel Racing), see an image of the scheme on the #17 Team Schemes page.(5-6-2014)

Jack Roush discusses possible engine changes: With NASCAR officials focusing on engine changes in the Sprint Cup Series for 2015 that will result in a reduction of horsepower, such a move should involve "a restriction on the intake side," according to Sprint Cup Series team co-owner [#16, #17, #99] Jack Roush. Roush, an owner in the series since 1988, isn't suggesting the use of restrictor plates similar to those used at Daytona and Talladega. Instead, he said, a reduction of the throttle bore size "without a plate underneath" would accomplish the objective. "(It is) straightforward and it is easily reversible if you decided that the quality of the racing was hurt by it," Roush said. "If they want to take 100 horsepower off ... reduce horsepower significantly, the least expensive and most palatable way to do that is with a restriction on the intake side." Today's Cup engines, limited to 358 cubic inches, produce approximately 850 horsepower. Speeds have increased, in part due to a new rules package and the continued development of the Generation-6 car, now in its second year. While officials with the three auto manufacturers currently involved at the series' top level, Chevrolet, Ford and Toyota, have been a part of the discussions, they say it is too early in the process to respond to potential engine changes. "From an owner's standpoint, NASCAR has got to be mindful of ... what it costs," Roush said. "The race teams can only afford to change so many things at a time. With the expanding technology and the engineering costs that everybody has with the pressure for sponsorship and investment in the sport, a dramatic or unnecessary engine change would not be welcome in my world."(see full article at NASCAR.com)(4-20-2014)

Roush Fenway Racing and EcoPower Re-Refined Oil Announce Multi-Year Partnership: Fresh off its one-two finish at Bristol Motor Speedway last weekend, Roush Fenway Racing (RFR) announced a multi-year team-wide partnership with Safety-Kleen and its premium re-refined motor oil brand, EcoPower. EcoPower will serve as the official oil partner of NASCAR's winningest team, as well as the primary sponsor for multiple races with the #17 Sprint Cup Ford and driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. The #17 EcoPower Ford Fusion will make its debut at Michigan International Speedway in June (and four other races). "We are pleased to have EcoPower on board as our official oil partner," said team owner Jack Roush. "The partnership reflects Roush Fenway's commitment to both sustainability and using highest quality products. EcoPower protects engines and protects the environment. We have had great success in our race cars with re-refined oil and we look forward to continuing that success with EcoPower, while promoting environmental responsibility throughout this season and into the future."
"The environmental benefits of re-refined oils have been rigorously evaluated and proven," said Curt Knapp, Safety-Kleen executive vice president, marketing and oil re-refining sales. "Fleet operators and consumers want to be absolutely confident that the oil will protect their valuable investment. We can't think of a stronger, more authentic endorsement for EcoPower than Jack Roush using it in his race cars to achieve peak protection and performance."
EcoPower re-refined oil helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80%. And it requires up to 85% less energy to produce than oil made from virgin crude, because it has already been refined. It also helps reduce America's dependence on foreign oil. That's why car dealerships, quick lubes, other DIFM installers, consumers and fleets rely on EcoPower to protect engines and protect the environment.
Safety-Kleen is a founding partner of NASCAR Green; an initiative focused on making NASCAR the greenest sport. Safety-Kleen collects all used fluids from the tracks during race weekends - and from most team facilities year round - and then recycles or responsibly disposes of those fluids. The used motor oil collected from all of these sources, including RFR's race cars, will find its way back into EcoPower. This "closed-loop" philosophy is by far the most environmentally responsible approach to handling used oil. EcoPower is more than just engine oil. It is part of a much bigger effort by Safety-Kleen, the largest collector and re-refiner of used oil in the world. In 2013, Safety-Kleen collected over 220 million gallons of used oil. EcoPower doesn't just conserve resources; it protects them by keeping used motor oil out of our land and groundwater, making it truly an oil change for the better.(Roush Fenway Racing)(3-20-2014)

Nationwide Insurance Features Ricky Stenhouse Jr. in the Driver's First National Television Campaign: The 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Sunoco Rookie of the Year, Ricky Stenhouse Jr., seeks to improve his performance on the track and off as the Nationwide Insurance member debuts his first national television commercial for a sponsor. The spot airs for the first time on Saturday, Feb. 22 during the NASCAR Nationwide Series Drive4COPD 300 race at Daytona International Speedway. "Spotter" brings to life how NASCAR spotters are looking out for their driver's best interests, just as Nationwide does for its members. The commercial also airs during "The Great American Race" on Sunday, Feb. 23 on Fox and throughout the 2014 NASCAR season. Stenhouse also will be featured in a co-branded consumer promotion for Nationwide Insurance and ESPN. NASCAR fans are able to register to win a 2014 Ford Mustang beginning Thursday, Feb. 20 at espn.com/nationwide.(PR)(2-22-2014)

Stenhouse Jr. and Zest offer PSA to help those in need: #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and one of his primary sponsors, Zest personal care brand, have teamed up to tackle a serious issue across the country, joining Family-to-Family.org to create a public service announcement video. The program that Stenhouse promotes in the PSA, called Shower To The People, addresses the serious and sadly overlooked issue of getting basic personal care items into the hands of people who struggle to afford them. The PSA starring Ricky Stenhouse Jr. will debut this weekend on the big screen at Daytona International Speedway. In it, Stenhouse Jr. addresses a serious and sadly overlooked issue: getting basic personal care items into the hands of people who struggle to afford them.(PR)(2-22-2014)

Nationwide to sponsor Stenhouse in 2014: Nationwide Insurance has finalized its 2014 sponsorship of Ricky Stenhouse Jr. in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series beginning with season opening events at Daytona International Speedway. Nationwide's primary sponsorship of Stenhouse in the #17 Nationwide Insurance Ford Fusion includes seven races, while maintaining its associate sponsor status for the balance of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series season. "Our partnership with Ricky was an easy decision and race fans can expect to see more of him when we introduce our new season kick-off campaigns in a few weeks," said Matt Jauchius, chief marketing officer for Nationwide Insurance. "Our company has been an active NASCAR sponsor for 15 years, but fielding our first car in 'The Great American Race' will make the 2014 season even more special for our members, agents and associates."
Stenhouse will drive the #17 Nationwide Insurance Ford Fusion in NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races on Feb. 15 in the Sprint Unlimited, Feb. 20 in The Budweiser Duel and on Feb. 23 in the Daytona 500. Other races include March 16 at Bristol, April 12 at Darlington, April 26 at Richmond and June 1 at Dover. "To be with Nationwide Insurance and reunited with my two-time NASCAR Nationwide Series championship crew chief, Mike Kelley, for seven races, will be pretty special for us," said Stenhouse. "I am thrilled Nationwide is partnering with me this year and look forward to creating something magical together again."(RFR), see an image of the scheme on the #17 Team Schemes page.(1-29-2014)

Best Buy (12? races) is scheduled to be the sponsor at the following races in 2013:
Daytona 500 - 2/24
Phoenix - 3/3
Bristol - 3/17
Texas - 4/21
Talladega - 5/5
Darlington - 5/11
Charlotte - 5/18, Sprint Showdown/All-Star Race
Dover - 6/2
New Hampshire - 7/14
Watkins Glen - 8/11
Atlanta - 9/1
Chicago - 9/15
Charlotte - 10/12, My Best Buy

Zest (7 races) is scheduled to be the sponsor at the following races in 2013:
Las Vegas - 3/10
Kansas - 4/22
Richmond - 4/27
Darlington - 5/11
Michigan - 6/16
Pocono - 8/4
New Hampshire - 9/22

Fifth Third Bank (4 races) is scheduled to be the sponsor at the following races in 2013:
Martinsville - 4/7
Kentucky - 6/29
Daytona - 7/6
Michigan - 8/18

Nationwide Insurance (3 races) is scheduled to be the sponsor at the following races in 2013:
Bristol - 8/24
Richmond - 9/7
Talladega - 10/20

Ford EcoBoost was the sponsor at the following races in 2013:
Sonoma - 6/23
Indianapolis - 7/28
Dover - 9/29
Kansas - 10/6
Homestead - 11/17

NOS (1 race) is scheduled to be the sponsor at the following races in 2013:
Auto Club - 3/24

Fastenal (1 race) is scheduled to be the sponsor at the following races in 2013:
Charlotte - 5/26

Valvoline NextGen (1 race) is scheduled to be the sponsor at the following races in 2013:
Pocono - 6/9

Unknown sponsorship for the following races in 2013:
(usually runs Ford EcoBoost at these races)
Kansas - 10/6, Ford EcoBoost
Martinsville - 10/27, Driven for a Cure
Texas - 11/3, Ford EcoBoost
Phoenix - 11/10, RFR Driven
Homestead - 11/17, Ford EcoBoost

Stenhouse getting more than a new crew chief: The # 17 Roush Fenway Racing team will have a different look when Ricky Stenhouse Jr. returns to the track Wednesday for the Charlotte Motor Speedway test. With his former crew chief, Mike Kelly, replacing Scott Graves, several crewmen - including car chief Pierre Kuettel, engineer Mike Bugarewicz and mechanics Brent Wentz and Joey Elliott - have parted ways with the team. Former Nationwide Series crew chief Patrick Magee is replacing Kuettel. "It's going to be good, I'm excited," Stenhouse said. "I've been in the shop hanging out with the guys. I think there was a little something we were missing last year - a little excitement with the team. One thing I feel like this year is everyone wants to be there. They all believe in Mike. They all believe in me. They're ready to go to battle. It's been a fun offseason being in the shop and feeling the atmosphere of the shop." (Fox Sports)(12-11-2013)

Changes at Roush Fenway Racing? UPDATE: hearing that Mike Kelley will replace Scott Graves as Ricky Stenhouse Jr.'s crew chief on the #17 Cup team in 2014 and Graves will move to Roush Fenway Racing's Nationwide team with driver Trevor Bayne. Current Roush Fenway Racing General Manager, Robbie Reiser will move to RFR's Competition Director position.(11-11-2013)
UPDATE: Roush Fenway Racing has announced it is reorganizing its crew chief lineup in 2014. Mike Kelley, who has served as the crew chief on the #6 NASCAR Nationwide Series team for the past four seasons, will move to the Sprint Cup Series, where he will reunite with Ricky Stenhouse Jr. on the #17 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series team. "It's really exciting to team back up with Mike," said Stenhouse, the 2013 Sprint Cup rookie of the year and two-time NASCAR champion. "Obviously we have a great chemistry and we have had a great deal of success in the past. Scott (Graves) did a great job of guiding us through our rookie season this year and we look forward to continuing that growth next season." Kelley and Stenhouse partnered to win NNS championships in 2011 and 2012.
Veteran crew chief Chad Norris will take the helm of the #6 AdvoCare team with Trevor Bayne, which will look to be a front-runner for the 2014 NNS title. Scott Graves, who helped lead Stenhouse to the 2013 Sprint Cup rookie of the year award as the crew chief of the #17 NSCS team, will crew chief former ARCA Champion Chris Buescher in the historic #60 car. Seth Barbour, who was impressive in his performance with Buescher and Ryan Reed in 2013, will sit atop the #16 NNS Ford full time with Reed in 2014. On the Cup side, legendary crew chief Jimmy Fennig will again lead the #99 Fastenal team with Carl Edwards and Matt Puccia will once again team with Greg Biffle and the #16 3M team.(Roush Fenway)(11-19-2013)

Stenhouse Jr. is NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Rookie of the Year: Though #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. didn't enjoy as much success as he might have liked in 2014, his performance was strong enough to secure Sunoco Rookie of the Year honors. Stenhouse, who finished 22nd Sunday, beat out girlfriend #10-Danica Patrick for the recognition as top rookie in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. "It means a lot, looking at all the other names that have won this award," Stenhouse said. "It definitely wasn't the season that we wanted, but we slowly but surely got a little bit better throughout the season. I was proud of what we did, of getting better, qualifying better, having runs up front, leading laps throughout this year. I thought we had a chance at winning some races there, at least being in contention. I was proud of those moments. All in all, it was a huge learning experience. Thankful we made it through; it's behind us now. We can move on to next year, look on improving every spot at every track that we can in the final points standings."(NASCAR Wire Service)(11-18-2013)

Calinoff Launches New Company: NASCAR notable, Mike Calinoff [current #17 spotter], has spent a good part of his career creating mutually-beneficial business relationships and designing creative funding models in the motorsports arena. Now, Calinoff has created a separate entity from his successful Public Relations, Social Influence and Branding company, 140BUZZ, to serve drivers and teams in their quest for sponsorships. GENER8PARTNERS, LLC with offices in Huntersville, NC and New York, NY will specialize in experiential marketing, leveraging consumer products and business-to-business relationships to develop sponsorship programs in motorsports with a dedicated staff. "We're not 'sponsor hunters', we're more like matchmakers," said Calinoff. "We're about creating opportunities for companies to not only gain exposure, but increase their businesses as a result of product leverage and creative relationships. The days of just vinyl on sheet metal are long gone."(140 BUZZ)(11-14-2013)
UPDATE: Mike Calinoff leaves the spotters stand following this weekends NASCAR Sprint Cup Series finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway. Starting in 2014, Calinoff will spend more time with family and continue to grow his five companies, 140BUZZ, ENCORE140, GENER8PARTNERS, Mike Calinoff Driver Development and PopularSpeed.com which serve both the motorsports and music industries. "I've been so fortunate to have worked with such a great organization like Roush Fenway and amazing talents like Matt Kenseth, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Trevor Bayne. I never dreamed that I would be able to enjoy the successes that I have been blessed with." Calinoff will continue to be an engaging figure on both Twitter and Facebook. For more information on his companies visit mikecalinoff.com.(11-15-2013)

Congrats Pete Williams: Roush Fenway Racing's Pete Williams and wife Storee welcomed a baby girl (7lbs 21 inches), born on Sunday, Nov 10, 2013.(11-11-2013)

RFR Driven scheme for Stenhouse at Phoenix: Ricky Stenhouse, Jr. heads to Phoenix International Raceway in 17 #RFRDriven Ford. You could win the hood signed by the RFR crew. After 25 "Winning Years", a record 300 wins and numerous championships, Roush Fenway Racing remains "Driven" to succeed. To drive the point, RFR launched its 2013 "Driven" campaign at the 2013 NASCAR Media Day. The "Driven" program will include new and increased fan interaction, as well as partner promotions and special events throughout the season (RFR), see an image of the car/scheme on the #17 Team Schemes page.(11-7-2013)

Spotter Calinoff Not Returning to Roush Fenway in 2014: Mike Calinoff, a fixture atop the spotter's stand for Roush Fenway Racing since 2000, will not return as spotter for #17-Ricky Stenhouse, Jr. in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, or Trevor Bayne in the NASCAR Nationwide Series in 2014. "Jack Roush, Robbie Reiser and Matt Kenseth took a chance on me in 2000 and afforded me the opportunity to build a career in NASCAR that has far exceeded my expectations," said Calinoff. "I've worked with a number of amazing drivers and crew chiefs who will continue to be great friends."
"I've enjoyed working with Mike," said Stenhouse, "and I appreciate his help over the past four years."
Calinoff's resume at Roush Fenway Racing includes 47 victories in NASCAR's three National Touring Series with Kenseth, Stenhouse and Ricky Craven. He won the 2003 Sprint Cup title and two Daytona 500s (2009 & 2012) with Kenseth, in addition to back-to-back Nationwide crowns with Stenhouse in 2011 and 2012. "Even though I will not return to RFR in 2014, I remain focused on trying to win a Sprint Cup race with Ricky Stenhouse, Jr.," said Calinoff. "That would be an awesome way to end the season."(Godfather Motorsports)(11-5-2013)

Stenhouse and Biffle in pink Fords at Martinsville: Roush Fenway Racing's Ricky Stenhouse Jr. will drive the pink #17 'Driven for a Cause' Ford Fusion this weekend at Martinsville Speedway to raise awareness and support the National Breast Cancer Foundation(NBCF). "It is great to be able to team up with the National Breast Cancer Foundation and help bring awareness to a special cause" Stenhouse said. "Many families have been affected by breast cancer and it's an honor to help support the National Breast Cancer Foundation and all of their hard work." Throughout the month of October all of RFR's race cars carried a special 'pink ribbon Driven logos' in each of the month's events. In addition, teammate Greg Biffle's 3M Ford Fusion also features a special pink themed scheme for the event.(Roush Fenway Racing), see an image of the cars on the #16 team paint schemes page and #17 team paint schemes page.(10-24-2013)

Zest Extends Partnership with Roush Fenway and Stenhouse Jr.: Roush Fenway Racing and two-time NASCAR Champion Ricky Stenhouse Jr. will remain 'Zestfully Clean' into the 2014 season, as Zest has extended its partnership with the team to include six primary paint schemes next year. Stenhouse - the leading rookie of the year candidate in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series - made the announcement Wednesday night on Sirius/XM NASCAR Radio's Dialed In via Jack's Garage, a weekly segment with award-winning radio host Claire B. Lang. Sporting one of the most unique paint schemes in the sport, Zest first joined RFR in 2012 and has served as a primary partner on the #17 for the last two seasons.(Roush Fenway Racing)(10-10-2013)

Roush Fenway "Driven for a Cause" In Support of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Roush Fenway Racing (RFR) will utilize its 2013 'Driven' Marketing program in support of National Breast Cancer Awareness month in October. Through 'Driven for a Cause,' RFR will highlight cause awareness and support the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF) during the month of October. "We are very pleased to help raise awareness for such a special cause," said RFR president Steve Newmark. "So many have been touched by breast cancer and we are proud to team with the National Breast Cancer Foundation, and be able to play a small part in the great work that they do to make a difference in the lives of many." All of RFR's race cars will carry special 'pink ribbon Driven logos' in each of the month's events. In addition, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. will run a special pink 'Driven for a Cause' paint scheme on his #17 Ford Fusion at Martinsville Speedway on Oct. 27. Greg Biffle's #16-3M Ford Fusion will also run a special pink themed scheme for the event. RFR is offering "Driven for a Cause" merchandise, with a percentage of the proceeds going to the NBCF. RFR will also donate pieces of the No. 17 'Driven for a Cause' Ford for auction, with proceeds benefiting the NBCF.(Roush Fenway Racing), see an image of the schemes on the #17 Team Schemes page and #16 Team Schemes page.(10-3-2013)

Nationwide Insurance debuts on the #17 car: Nationwide Insurance will debut its two-year partnership with Roush Fenway Racing's #17 Ford by sponsoring Ricky Stenhouse Jr. at Bristol this weekend. Nationwide Insurance will be the primary sponsor for two other races in 2013 (Richmond & Talladega), four races in 2014 and will serve as associate sponsor for all other #17 team Sprint Cup races. The race dates in 2014 are yet to be determined. See an image of the scheme on the #17 Team Schemes page.(8-23-2013)

Some Pit Crew Changes: Last week Pit Talks posted a list of all the changes on pit road since the beginning of the season. Since then there have been a few more major changes to Chase contending teams. Here are the changes known:
#29-Rear Carrier Aaron Schields has been replaced by Ethan Marquette.
#24-Rear Carrier Gene Cornwell is out with injury and is replaced by Jody Fortson.
#99-Front Changer Corey Baldwin is changing places with Mike Lingerfelt on the #17.
#56-Front Changer Eric Maycroft is replaced by Terry Spalding.
All these changes are important because all of them are either in the Chase or on the bubble to make the chase. Changing teams this late in the season can prove to be very productive or simply slow the process down.(Pit Talks and see Jayski's 2013 Pit Crew Chart)(8-20-2013)

Stand Up To Cancer featured on #17: Ricky Stenhouse Jr. will carry Stand Up to Cancer on the decklid of the #17 Fifth Third Bank Ford at Michigan. Stand Up To Cancer and the Cancer Research Institute have joined forces in one of the most promising new research areas, using the science of immunology to get our bodies' own natural defenses to fight the disease. Immunotherapy has the potential to significantly change the treatment of cancer as we know it. Stand Up with us. Together, we can impact millions of lives.(RFR)(8-16-2013)

John Henry buys Boston Globe: New York Times Co., which put its Boston Globe newspaper up for sale this year, agreed to sell the publication to John Henry, owner of the Boston Red Sox baseball team, for $70 million in cash. The deal is $40 million short of the $110 million in pension liabilities said to be owed by the Globe properties collectively known as the New England Media Group, and is expected to close in 30 to 60 days. The sale also includes the Globe website, the Boston.com website, the Worcester Telegram & Gazette, a 49 percent stake in Metro Boston, and the Globe's direct-mail marketing company GlobeDirect, the New York Times said in a statement.
Henry is also the principal owner of Fenway Sports Group, one of the largest sports, media and entertainment companies in the world. In 2010, FSG bought Liverpool Football Club, the 18-time English soccer champion, and its Anfield stadium. The company also owns the New England Sports Network and a 50 percent share in Roush Fenway Racing, a NASCAR racing team.(Bloomberg)(8-4-2013)

Pastrana tries to get Edwards, Stenhouse to base jump: Travis Pastrana uses his connections in extreme sports to help fund his car for the Nationwide Series. That's just fine with owner Jack Roush, as long as Pastrana doesn't bring along any of his teammates to one of his more exhilarating expeditions. Pastrana planned a base-jumping trip for Sprint Cup star #99-Carl Edwards and fellow Roush driver #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. But it all fell apart, and a smiling Pastrana said Saturday he suspected the 71-year-old Roush might have been behind the failure. "I guess someone at the office got a hold of it the day before we left because I ended up showing up to the base-jump place all by myself," Pastrana said with a chuckle. "So I assume he's OK with me doing it but he doesn't want me dragging the rest of the crew into that shenanigans."(Associated Press)(7-21-2013)

Roush starting to scale back: Having achieved nearly everything he'd wanted in his racing career, [Jack Roush] the 71-year-old captain of industry prefers to revel in others' success in the dusk of his NASCAR career. "There aren't so many firsts left for me, but I've not lost my passion for competition or my desire to operate at the top of my game," the founder of Roush Fenway Racing told USA TODAY Sports. "I just look forward to enjoying vicariously the success of drivers winning their first race or championship, and the crew chiefs and engineers able to share in those firsts. It's less about me and more about being a parent or a grandparent to them."
Once the Sprint Cup Series' quintessential hands-on team owner, Roush quietly is moving toward the sidelines. After a quarter-century of owning stock-car teams that have 314 wins in NASCAR and two championships in its premier series, Roush still works seven days a week but doesn't set his alarm for dawn anymore. He no longer spends 90 minutes before every race tinkering with each of his cars' carburetors, which have been excised from stock-car racing by electronic fuel injection. The mechanical wizard ... has been marginalized somewhat by advances in technology. The survivor of two plane crashes has eased into a role he jokingly labels as public and human relations manager.
"I've gone from wanting to be the mechanic that I hoped everyone else would be to now I'm the point-and-grunt guy," Roush said with a laugh, "hopefully, I'll become less viable before I'm gone. The challenge is to give up the management and decision-making at the right time." Within the next five years, the plan is he won't attend every team meeting or race anymore, scaling back to spend more time with five grandchildren who range in age from 8 months to 12 years old.
"He's trying to empower the folks running the team on a daily basis," team president Steve Newmark said. "I suspect that is sometimes hard for him, but he's doing it of his own accord, which is great because you see a lot of patriarchs that hold on for too long and don't leave the company in a good state. He's focused very much on making sure the company continues regardless of the level of his involvement." So is there a clear plan for the enterprise once Roush steps away? "There's no written plan," Newmark said. "We'll welcome his leadership as long as we can get it."Read much more at USA Today.(7-11-2013)

Sixteen Cup teams found with modified roof flap spacers UPDATE: Sixteen teams found to have modified roof flap spacers (lighter) during NASCAR inspection. Teams listed: #1-McMurray, #2-Keselowski, #9-Ambrose, #11-Hamlin, #13-Mears, #15-Bowyer, #16-Biffle, #17-Stenhouse Jr., #18-Busch, #20-Kenseth, #21-Bayne, #22-Logano, #43-Almirola, #55-Waltrip, #56-Truex Jr. and #99-Edwards. The modified/confiscated roof-flap spacers are on display at Daytona in the NASCAR hauler. NASCAR's Kerry Tharp addressed media on confiscated roof-flap spacers - "Spacers not in compliance with those kits." The roof-flap kits are supplied to teams for #NASCAR by one company (a Roush company) and are not to be changed.(SPEED's, Dustin Long Fox/NASCAR on Twitter)
AND Thirty-one cars, including 16 in the Sprint Cup Series, failed inspection before Thursday's practices at Daytona International Speedway. NASCAR confiscated the teams' roof flaps, which are designed to keep cars on the ground during spins and wrecks at high speeds, for further inspection. Penalties could be possible. The roof-flap spacers had been illegally machined down to reduce weight. NASCAR inspectors made those Cup teams install new, unaltered roof flaps before drivers were allowed on the track for the first of two practices. Inspectors then went to the Nationwide garage and found similar issues on 15 cars. "When you find something in one garage, you communicate to the other garage," NASCAR spokesman Kerry Tharp said. "We looked into it and this is what we found."(Associated Press)(7-4-2013)
UPDATE: NASCAR Sprint Cup teams expect widespread penalties after 16 cars were found with illegal roof-flap spacers at Daytona Thursday, but they don't know how severe those penalties might be. The teams caught scrambled Thursday to make compliant spacers, which are used to attach the hinge of the roof flaps. Teams and manufacturers get roof flaps from Roush Composites and, according to the NASCAR rulebook, "the hinged air deflectors must be installed as specified in the instruction sheet supplied with the hinged air deflector kit." But it was apparent that many teams had lightened the spacers or changed them. It wasn't clear what tipped off NASCAR inspectors to the violations, but after a sweep of the Sprint Cup garage Thursday, NASCAR went through the Nationwide garage and took pieces from 15 Nationwide teams Thursday night. A non-compliant part might just be a monetary penalty but because it dealt with a safety piece - the roof flaps pop up during a spin to try to keep the car on the ground - a points penalty is definitely possible, as well as crew suspensions. NASCAR traditionally issues penalties the Tuesday after a race weekend. NASCAR Vice President of Competition Robin Pemberton said the widespread use of the illegal spacers most likely indicates that those pieces had gotten through inspection previously. "It's probably not something that was on a normal inspection routine," Pemberton said. "The teams are told that they must assemble all that stuff using all the parts that's in the kit. Once in a while you'll find things like that and it's probably something that teams have probably done a little bit in the past." Whether the number of teams involved will impact the penalties and whether crew chiefs who are on probation will face more severe penalties will be determined Monday and Tuesday, Pemberton said. Because teams didn't have extra kits at Daytona, NASCAR allowed the teams to make spacers that were compliant.(Sporting News)(7-5-2013)

Jack Roush reveals Ford Racing alliance with Penske Racing: Jack Roush had been around long enough to know that something had to change for his Roush Fenway Racing program to be successful. Roush explained how the team had doubled its engineering efforts. After the race, Roush elaborated more on what had transpired to make the Ford Fusion Gen 6 car more competitive. "We had a summit meeting with the Penske guys last week, and talked about some of the strategies,'' Roush said of the launch of two Ford Racing teams working together. "We have had one cooperative wind tunnel test. We just scratched the surface. It will be great to have someone to share information with.'' Penske Racing, with drivers #2-Brad Keselowski and #22-Joey Logano, switched over to Fords this season. Roush identified aerodynamics and front suspensions as the areas the Ford Fusion needs to make up ground. "We have to find that last tweak in the front suspension or aerodynamics,'' Roush said. "When we started on Gen 6 (car development), it was a jump ball, and the car changed during its development to have more downforce than was anticipated to start with. We are on the path, and we have nice, light cars that I'm not the least bit unhappy about.''(Michigan Live)(6-17-2013)

Valvoline colors on the #17 at Pocono: The Party in the Poconos Sprint Cup Series race at Pocono Raceway is Valvoline's debut on the #17 Ford of Ricky Stenhouse Jr. this season. Valvoline first partnered with RFR in 1989 and served as the primary sponsor on the #6 Sprint Cup Ford. In 2011, RFR first adopted NextGen motor oil technology, testing it at the lab and on track. Since 2011, overall regular season race wins using Valvoline with NextGen technology total 55, with 17 of those in NASCAR with RFR. In addition, Valvoline with NextGen technology won the last two NNS championships with RFR and Ricky Stenhouse Jr.(RFR), see an image of the scheme on the #17 Team Schemes page.(6-6-2013)

Roush to run triple Fastenal Ford's in the Coca Cola 600 UPDATE: Fastenal Racing will be on #16-Greg Biffle, #17-Ricky Stenhouse, Jr. and #99-Carl Edwards Ford Racing Fusions for the NASCAR Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway next weekend.(Roush Fenway Racing Facebook)(5-18-2013)
UPDATE: Held on Memorial Day weekend, the Coca-Cola 600 presents an opportunity for the NASCAR community to display appreciation for our country's military forces. This year, Fastenal is proud to honor military service men and women, both active and retired, with a three-car tribute on the #16, #17 and #99 Ford Fusions at Charlotte Motor Speedway. These three cars, known as the Fastenal Tribute Cars, will feature the names of current Fastenal employees who served in the military. David MacFadden (First Sergeant, U.S. Army) will be displayed on the hood of the #99, and Brian Ashbee (Chief Quartermaster, U.S. Navy) and Anthony Phillips (Private First Class, U.S. Army) will see their names on the hood of the #17. The displays are part of Fastenal's "Heroes Hired Here" campaign honoring employees who are active or retired military members. MacFadden, Ashbee and Phillips were the top three finishers in a Fastenal employee essay contest. As the contest winner, MacFadden will also receive a trip for two to the Bank of America 500 in Charlotte on October 12th. Fastenal will be posting the winners' stories on the Fastenal Racing Facebook page this week (https://www.facebook.com/fastenalracing). "We're extremely proud of the hundreds of former and current military personnel who are part of the Fastenal Blue Team," said Fastenal President Lee Hein. "The Tribute Cars are a small way of expressing our gratitude to them and all of the men and women who have served our country." This is Fastenal's second season in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series as the primary sponsor for Carl Edwards in the #99 Ford Fusion and second year sponsoring three Cup cars in the Roush Fenway Racing family for the Coca-Cola 600.(Roush Fenway Racing)
ALSO: Roush Fenway Racing's Spring Fan Day is scheduled for Thursday, May 23rd, more info at roushfenway.com. see images of the Fastenal schemes on my #17 Team Schemes page.(5-21-2013)

Roush Fenway Racing will host their 2013 Fan Day events, on Thursday, May 23rd. Fans are invited to Roush Fenway's corporate headquarters in Concord, N.C. to participate in an array of activities that kick off with autograph sessions by all seven Roush Fenway drivers and Jack Roush. Be sure to stop by and meet your favorite Roush Fenway Racing driver! Tickets for the autograph sessions will be distributed at 8:00am/et. More info at roushfenway.com.(5-16-2013)

Nationwide Insurance sponsoring Stenhouse, Jr. in Cup: Nationwide Insurance announced a two-year partnership with Roush Fenway Racing's #17 Ford Fusion powered by Ricky Stenhouse Jr. in the Sprint Cup Series. Nationwide Insurance will be the primary sponsor for three races in 2013, four races in 2014 and will serve as associate sponsor for all other #17 team Sprint Cup races. "We've had a 15-year presence in NASCAR and this is the first time we've sponsored a car in any NASCAR series," said Matt Jauchius, chief marketing officer for Nationwide Insurance. "We built a solid relationship with Roush Fenway and two-time NASCAR Nationwide Series champion and Nationwide Insurance member, Ricky Stenhouse Jr., and we're eager to carry that momentum forward and enhance our existing integrated NASCAR marketing platform." The #17 Nationwide Insurance Ford Fusion will contend in NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races on Aug. 24 at Bristol, Sept. 7 at Richmond and Oct. 20 at Talladega. The race dates in 2014 are yet to be determined.(Nationwide PR)(4-25-2013)

Roush Fenway Racing Shows Boston Support with "B-Strong": In the aftermath of the tragic events that occurred during Monday's Boston Marathon, Roush Fenway Racing (RFR) will show its support for the city of Boston with a "B-Strong" tribute this weekend at Kansas Speedway. All three Roush Fenway Ford Fusions will carry "B-Strong" decals during this weekend's NASCAR event and RFR team owner Jack Roush has pledged to donate $100 for every lap the team leads during Sunday's Sprint Cup race.
"When events occur such as what happened earlier this week in Boston, it is our nature to be overwhelmed with a variety of emotions," said Roush. "To have to withstand an act of such senselessness and cowardice against innocent people is disheartening to us all. Our hearts go out to the victims and their families, as well as the entire city of Boston. "As Americans we can all be proud of the way the city of Boston - and the entire nation - has banded together in the wake of this tragedy. We are proud of our Boston connections and feel privileged to be able to play a very small part in supporting the 'B-Strong' effort."
Roush Fenway is half owned by Boston's Fenway Sports Group; the same company that owns and operates the Boston Red Sox, Fenway Park as well as a majority stake in the region's premier sports network, NESN. In support of its sister team, RFR will carry the "B-Strong" decal that the Red Sox organization has used as a rallying point for Bostonians since the events that tragically took the lives of three people, while wounding well over 100 others. "The deplorable acts committed in connection with the Boston Marathon have impacted the entire nation," said Roush Fenway president Steve Newmark. "And it is inspiring to watch the resiliency and unyielding determination of the entire city of Boston in the wake of this tragedy. Their resolve helps to remind us what makes our country so great. We obviously work very closely with the Fenway Sports Management group on a regular basis, and for this to happen right there in their back yard really grabs your attention and drives it home. We are humbled as an organization to be able to support the "B-Strong" effort."
In addition, Roush Fenway will distribute "B-Strong" decals at the race track this weekend that pays tribute to the '617' Boston area code, the "B-Strong" program and provides information on how to support the "The One Fund Boston", an initiative formed by Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick and Boston Mayor Tom Menino to help the people most affected by the tragic events. For more information about "The One Fund Boston" and how you can help those most affected visit: www.onefundboston.org.(Roush Fenway Racing)(4-18-2013)

Fifth Third Bank making first appearance on #17: Fifth Third Bank will make its 2013 debut with the two-time Nationwide Champion, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. this weekend at Martinsville for the STP Gas Booster 500. This will be the Sprint Cup rookie's first attempt at the famed paper-clip half-mile track. Fifth Third Bank joined Roush Fenway Racing in 2012 and will continue to serve as a primary sponsor for the #17, as Stenhouse and the team fight for the Rookie of the Year honors. The next scheduled event for Fifth Third Bank is Kentucky Speedway on June 29, 2013. Stenhouse ran a # 6 Fifth Third Ford Fusion in the 2012 Sprint Cup finale last season at Homestead.(Roush Fenway)(4-4-2013)

Roush Fenway adds marketing resources for partners: Roush Fenway Racing has increased the marketing resources available to the team's partners through the addition of six new hires and the creation of a new department focused on delivering incremental value to team sponsors. The new personnel bring to Roush Fenway areas of expertise including brand marketing, event marketing, television production, digital engagement, NFL player representation and retail activation. Included in RFR's new hires is marketing and industry veteran Mike Mooney, as vice president of partnership development. In addition, the business development department has brought in Garrett Hess as an account executive. Hess moves to RFR from K Sports & Entertainment in Boston where his was Sponsorship Sales Manager and an athlete liaison. In addition to the new personnel is the creation of a strategic marketing department focused on delivering incremental value to team partners through ideation and execution of activation, digital and public relations channels. This team is led by industry veterans Kevin Thomas, Amber Darnell and Kevin Woods, who represent nearly 40 years of NASCAR marketing experience. As one of its first moves, the strategic marketing department added Yasin Id-Deen as Social and Digital Marketing Manager. The team also bolstered its talent and diversity, bringing on television production veteran Rob DiFrank and former Octagon coordinator Amanda Weis as account/pr managers in its sponsor operations department.(Roush Fenway)(4-1-2013)

Jack Roush to be inducted in Texas Motorsports Hall of Fame: Jack Roush's success at Texas Motor Speedway has become a part of the speedway's growing history. It was Roush who became the first team owner to sweep both events at "The Great American Speedway!" during the inaugural season in 1997. His success has not stopped there as he has since gone on to win 18 races as a car owner across NASCAR's top three national series at Texas Motor Speedway, including a record nine in NASCAR Sprint Cup Series competition. His dominance at Texas Motor Speedway has earned him the honor of becoming the 15th member inducted into the Texas Motorsports Hall of Fame. Roush will be honored Thursday, April 11, during the Texas Motorsports Hall of Fame Gala benefitting Speedway Children's Charities that will be held in The Speedway Club's Grand Ballroom.
Roush's induction culminates an evening that celebrates the accomplishments of motorsport's most talented drivers and contributors. Other honorees will be five-time NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson; 2004 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Kurt Busch; IZOD IndyCar Series driver Graham Rahal; and legendary motorsports journalist Chris Economaki posthumously.
Johnson will receive the Texas Motor Speedway Racer of the Year award. In the AAA Texas 500, Johnson became just the second driver to win from the pole for his second career victory at Texas Motor Speedway.
Busch has been instrumental in helping Speedway Children's Charities-Texas Chapter raise funds to benefit children in North Texas. He will be recognized as this year's recipient of the Maj. General Thomas Sadler Award. Busch has helped Speedway Children's Charities-Texas Chapter raise more than $40,000.
Rahal will receive the Texas Motor Speedway Sportsmanship Award for displaying a demeanor both on and off the track that exemplifies the meaning of sportsmanship.
Economaki, motorsport's most noted and accomplished journalist, will be honored posthumously with the Bruton Smith Legend Award.(TMS)(3-29-2013)

Stenhouse Jr. to have NOS as sponsor: NOS Energy Drink will sponsor Ricky Stenhouse Jr.'s #17 Roush Fenway Racing Ford in the Auto Club 400 at Auto Club Speedway this coming weekend. Six winners of the #IMNOSome Twitter campaign will be featured on the #17 decklid this weekend. Stenhouse on Auto Club: "We are bringing the same car that we tested with at Las Vegas. We had a lot of speed during the test so I feel confident going into this weekend. NOS Energy Drink sponsored me last year and stepped up to the Cup Series this year so it would be great to get a solid finish in their paint scheme this weekend. We've been strong at other mile-and-a-half tracks so I feel we should have a strong showing in our #17 NOS Energy Drink Ford this weekend."(RFR), see an image of the scheme on the #17 Team Schemes page.(3-20-2013)

Roush Fenway selected as finalist for Social Media Icon Award: Roush Fenway Racing has been named a finalist for the PR News' Social Media Icon Award. The program is sponsored by PR News and is designated to honor those that "took chances, made incredible strides and understand the power of social media in public relations." RFR has been named a finalist in the category of "Use of Google+", with its marketing efforts through the platform in 2012. Roush Fenway become the first motorsports team to build a significant footprint in the Google+ space and the first team to exceed one million fans in its combined circles. A leader in NASCAR marketing solutions, Roush Fenway has brought home MarCom awards the past two years for its award-winning campaigns for RickyVsTrevor.com and "25 Winning Years." The significantly upped its level of fan engagement with a behind the scenes look at the organization kicking off at the 2012 Daytona Speedweeks with the first ever 'Five Driver Hangout.' The platform also featured live pre and post-race driver 'hangouts' from Daytona International Speedway, as well as G+ Hangouts from Fenway Park and RFR Fan Days.(Roush Fenway Racing)(3-7-2013)

Roush Fenway Racing honored: Roush Fenway Racing has accumulated a NASCAR record 311 victories during its celebrated 25 year history. It's 2012 "25 Winning Years" marketing platform - designed to highlight and celebrate those accomplishments - has brought home its own accolade; being awarded the 2012 MarCom International Gold Award for public relations/communications campaigns. It marks the second consecutive year that RFR's marketing team has been recognized by MarCom (RFR)(3-3-2013)

Stenhouse Visits With Troops in Phoenix: #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. visited troops at Luke Air Force base in Phoenix, Arizona on Thursday. As part of the USO effort, the two-time reigning Nationwide Champion met with service men and women and their families to talk racing and extend thanks for all of their efforts and sacrifices. "The sacrifices these men and women make for our country is remarkable," Stenhouse said. "This is my second USO Tour and I always leave in amazement. Because of the men and women in the armed forces, we enjoy many freedoms including getting to race each and every weekend. They are true heroes."(RFR)(3-2-2013)

Valvoline extends partnership with Roush Fenway: Roush Fenway Racing and Valvoline have announced the extension of their long-running and equally successful NASCAR partnership. The relationship, which spans over a decade and a half, pairs two elite organizations with long histories of automotive performance excellence. RFR will continue to use Valvoline's revolutionary NextGen recycled, re-refined motor oil, which last season helped the team to a win in the famed Daytona 500 and its second consecutive NASCAR Nationwide Series Championship. Valvoline, a leading innovator and supplier of quality, high-performing automotive products, will continue to be the exclusive motor oil provider for Roush Fenway Racing; NASCAR's winningest Team.(Roush Fenway)(1-31-2013)

Danica and Stenhouse Jr. are dating: #10-Danica Patrick revealed to The Associated Press she and #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. are a couple, ending widespread speculation about the nature of their relationship. "I have a boyfriend, his name is Richard," she said during an exclusive telephone interview with AP. The couple waited until the end of Charlotte Motor Speedway's weeklong annual media tour to go public with their relationship, which started as a friendship as they raced each other the last two seasons in the Nationwide Series. Stenhouse became a mentor of sorts to the 30-year-old Patrick, who left IndyCar after the 2011 season to make the full-time switch to NASCAR. Stenhouse, 25, confirmed the relationship. "Yes we are dating," he said. "I don't normally say too much about my private life, always been focused on the track. I didn't want to confirm at media day so that we could keep the focus on the season, the Gen-6 (car), my sponsors and team. That's what it's all about for me." Patrick announced in November she and husband Paul Hospenthal were divorcing after seven years, and said in the Jan. 3 filing that her marriage to the 47-year-old Hospenthal was "irretrievably broken."(full story at the Associated Press)(1-25-2013)

Ford Racing - RPM & RFR Notes from the NASCAR Sprint Media Tour: the first stop on the final day of the 2013 NASCAR Sprint Media Tour was at the hotel where Ford drivers from Richard Petty Motorsports and Roush Fenway Racing talked and met with the media: Some notes from Twitter world
Roush on working with Penske: "They have a dramatically different car than our car. The underbody and the suspension doesn't relate."
Robbie Reiser promoted from general manager to vice president of competition at Roush Fenway.
Roger Penske says his team's main contact with the RFR is Robbie Reiser.
Jack Roush said he's looking to put Trevor Bayne in a Cup car, full-time for the 2014 season, depending on sponsorship and driver performace.
Roush Fenway Racing had 9 sponsors up for renewal entering 2012 who are back.
There is sponsorhip available for #17-Stenhouse.
Ricky Stenhouse Jr. was asked directly whether he is dating Danica Patrick. He said he preferred not to talk about his personal life.
Smithfield Foods will expand the number of races it will sponsor the #43 to 25 races.
Marcos Ambrose shaved off his bushy beard he sported at testing.
(from many Twitter reports/feeds)(1-24-2013)

Danica vs. Ricky for Rookie of the Year: For the first time since 2006, when Denny Hamlin beat out Clint Bowyer, Martin Truex Jr. and a host of others, there's a legitimate rookie of the year battle. It's not a deep class, but the intrigue of two-time Nationwide Series champion #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. going against former IndyCar star #10-Danica Patrick will draw a lot of attention.(ESPN), the rule used to be once a driver ran more then seven races in a season, they were not eligible for Rookie of the Year, but the rules changed when NASCAR required drivers to declare which seres to accrue points for.(1-11-2013)

2013 silly season notes for #17-Ricky Stenhouse Jr. / Roush Fenway Racing: Two-time NASCAR Nationwide Champ Ricky Stenhouse Jr. moves up to the Sprint Cup level in 2013. Stenhouse Jr. will run for the Rookie of the Year and take over the #17 from Matt Kenseth, who ran the car since 2000. Scott Graves will lead the #17 team as the crew chief. Graves worked with Stenhouse Jr. in his three final Sprint Cup starts in 2012. Graves did a lot of R&D work for RFR on the 2013 car. Best Buy will be the sponsor for 12 races. Zest for an unknown number of races and Fifth Third Bank for four races. See images of the Best Buy, Zest and Fifth Third Bank schemes on my #17 Team Schemes page. See more about other teams on my 2013 Team / Driver Silly Season Chart.(1-8-2013)

Best Buy (10 races) is scheduled to be the sponsor at the following races in 2012:
Daytona - 2/26
Phoenix - 3/4
Bristol - 3/18
Texas - 4/14
Talladega - 5/6
Dover - 6/3
Richmond - 9/8
Chicago - 9/16
Charlotte - 10/13, with National Breast Cancer Foundation
Homestead - 11/18

Zest (6 races) is scheduled to be the sponsor at the following races in 2012:
Las Vegas - 3/11
Darlington - 5/12
Daytona - 7/7
Pocono - 8/5 [added]
New Hampshire - 9/23
Kansas - 10/21
Martinsville - 10/28

Fifth Third Bank (4 races) is scheduled to be the sponsor at the following races in 2012:
Charlotte, All-Star Race - 5/19
Kentucky - 6/30
Indianapolis - 7/29
Michigan 8/19

Ford EcoBoost (10 races so far) is scheduled to be the sponsor at the following races in 2012:
Auto Club - 3/25
Kansas - 4/22
Richmond - 4/28
Pocono - 6/10
Michigan - 6/17
Sonoma - 6/24
Watkins Glen - 8/12
Atlanta - 9/2
Dover - 9/30
Martinsville - 10/28

Fastenal (1 races) is scheduled to be the sponsor at the following races in 2012:
Charlotte - 5/27, with NASCAR Unites

Valvoline NextGen (? races) is scheduled to be the sponsor at the following races in 2012:
Bristol - 8/25

Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation/Gary Sinise Foundation was on the #17 at:
Martinsville - 4/1

Logano & Stenhouse Jr. bring holiday cheer to Troops on USO tour: NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Joey Logano and two-time and reigning NASCAR Nationwide Series champion Ricky Stenhouse Jr. recently teamed up with the USO to deliver good times and holiday cheer to troops overseas in the Middle East and Germany. Logano and Stenhouse extended America's thanks to men and women in uniform, and let them know their service, sacrifice and dedication are appreciated - not just during the holiday season but every day. After meeting troops serving in the Middle East and Germany, they wrapped up their USO tour by visiting recovering warriors at the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, also located in Germany.
In all, Logano and Stenhouse visited six installations and touched the lives of hundreds of service men and women overseas. The tour was part of an ongoing partnership with the USO that continues to strengthen the connection between the military and motorsports. During this year's NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Champion's Week in Las Vegas, NASCAR teamed up with the USO to host healing heroes and their families at NASCAR Victory Lap and the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Awards.
This was the second USO tour for Logano, who last year, along with 2012 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Brad Keselowski, visited hundreds of troops and military families stationed at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. This was the first USO tour experience for Stenhouse.
"We had the chance to meet some amazing men and women on our USO tour," said Logano. "I have so much respect for our troops; they do their jobs day in and day out without complaint and are always giving it their all. We are lucky to have these men and women serving and protecting our country, and I can't thank them enough for all that they do."
"My first USO tour was an amazing experience. It was an honor to meet our troops and see them in action," Stenhouse said. "The service and sacrifice of these men and women and their families are inspiring, and I have nothing but admiration and gratitude for what they do for our country." More about the USO and usowishbook.org and uso.org.(NASCAR), see images at uso.box.com.(12-13-2012)

#17 & #99 to swap crews for 2013? Stenhouse crew chief? UPDATE 2: hearing that the #17 & #99 pit crews will swap for the 2013 season. Current crew chief of the #17, Jimmy Fennig could move over to the #99 Ford of Carl Edwards or go back to his position in Roush Fenway's R&D Department. Supposedly Scott Graves, who currently is Ricky Stenhouse Jr.'s crew chief when he drives the #6 Ford in the NASCAR Sprint Cup, will move over to the #17 Sprint Cup Series ride with Stenhouse when he moves to the Sprint Cup Series in 2013. Edwards could end up with Fenning as his crew chief, or keep Chad Norris. his current crew chief. Also, former Edwards crew chief, Bob Osbourne could return to the #99 pitbox. In September Roush Fenway Racing owner Jack Roush said he didn't expect any crew chief changes for the team in 2013 and that Osbourne's "health is still a question mark.''(11-9-2012)
UPDATE: veteran crew chief Jimmy Fennig will move to the #99 team with driver Carl Edwards. Fennig replaces Chad Norris, who filled in after Bob Osborne stepped down in July due to health concerns. Norris is expected to oversee the #60 Nationwide Series team. Scott Graves, who has been working as Edwards' team engineer, will take the reins for Ricky Stenhouse Jr.'s rookie campaign.(FoxSports)(11-14-2012)
UPDATE 3 Roush Fenway Racing has announced that veteran crew chief Jimmy Fennig will lead Carl Edwards and the #99 Roush Fenway Sprint Cup team in its championship run in 2013. In addition, up and coming crew chief Scott Graves will lead the #17 team and defending Nationwide Series Champion Ricky Stenhouse Jr. during his rookie campaign next season. "We are excited about this change on both fronts," said team owner Jack Roush. "Pairing two highly successful veterans like Carl and Jimmy should be quite a matchup and it is our expectation based on what Jimmy has been able to accomplish with many high profile drivers, that it will provide the spark to get the #99 program and Carl back into championship form. However, we are particularly excited about teaming up Scott Graves and Ricky. Through his extensive research and development work, Scott has an excellent understanding of the new 2013 body style. In his short time as a crew chief he has demonstrated a cunning knack as a leader on the pit box and he is going to be a great match for Ricky as he makes his move upwards into the Sprint Cup ranks."(Roush Fenway Racing)(11-15-2012)

3000th Cup start for Roush Fenway: This is a milestone week for Roush Fenway Racing owner Jack Roush, whose organization celebrates its 3,000th NASCAR Sprint Cup Series start in Sunday's Tums Fast Relief 500 at Martinsville Speedway. Roush's Ford team made its series debut on Feb. 14, 1988, when Mark Martin finished 41st in the Daytona 500. Since then, Roush has celebrated 130 victories - most recently last weekend, when Matt Kenseth drove his #17 Ford into Victory Lane at Kansas Speedway.(NASCAR)(10-24-2012)

Kenseth wins at Kansas: #17-Matt Kenseth won the Hollywood Casino 400 Sprint Cup Series race at Kansas Speedway for his 3rd win of year and 24th career win.
#56-Truex, Jr. finished 2nd followed by #27-Menard, #5-Kahne, #14-Steart, #15-Bowyer, #88-Smith, #2-Keselowski, #48-Johnson, and #24-Gordon.
#48-Johnson led a lap early in the race while #2-Keselowski did not lead a lap. With Johnson finishing just behind Keselowski, Keselowski's points lead remains at 7.
There were a season high 14 cautions for 66 yellow flag laps. There were 16 lead changes among 10X drivers. The average speed was 115.086mph.
The estimated attendence was 78,000, up from 75,000 in the spring race but down from 82,000 last October.
See race results, awards, money won, laps led, cautions and more on the Kansas Race Results page (pdf) and the official race and points rundown on the Official Race & Points Report.
See drivers championship points standings on the Drivers Points Standings (pdf)
For the owner points standings, see the Owners Points Standings (pdf).(10-21-2012)

Kenseth wins at Talladega: #17-Matt Kenseth won the Good Sam Roadside Assistance 500 race at Talladega Superspeedway for his 2nd win of year and 23rd career win.
#24-Gordon finished 2nd followed by #18-Busch,#34-Ragan, #78-Smith, #16-Biffle, #2-Keselowski, #93-Kvapil, #39-Newman, and #31-Burton.
The race finished under caution after a big wreck on the final lap that collected 25 cars, including many chase contenders. #14-Stewart was leading when he pulled down to block #55-Waltrip. He got turned around and everyone was collected after that. NASCAR had to review video after the race to determine many finishing positions.
#2-Keselowski retains the points lead with 2179, a lead of 14 points over #48-Johnson.
There were 5 cautions for 17 yellow flag laps. There were 54 lead changes among 18 drivers. The average speed was 171.194mph.
The estimated attendence was 88,000, down from 108,500 in May and down from 105,000 last October.
See race results, awards, money won, laps led, cautions and more on the Talladega Race Results page (pdf) and the official race and points rundown on the Official Talladega Race & Points Report.(10-7-2012)

Kenseth will get a new spotter at Joe Gibbs Racing Mike Calinoff will end his long run as spotter for former NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion Matt Kenseth at season's end, remaining with Roush Fenway Racing when Kenseth jumps to Joe Gibbs Racing next season. Calinoff has remained mum about his plans for 2013, but Kenseth revealed this weekend that his longtime spotter will move on. Asked via Twitter whether Calinoff will accompany him to JGR and the #20 Home Depot Toyota, Kenseth replied "No, he is a great spotter, I will miss him." Calinoff subsequently confirmed those plans, revleaing that he will spot for 2011 NASCAR Nationwide Series champion Ricky Stenhouse, Jr. when Stenhouse takes the wheel of Roush Fenway's #17 Ford next season. He currently serves as Stenhouse's "eye in the sky" in Nationwide Series competition, and also spots for youngster Nelson Piquet, Jr. on the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series.(Godfather Motorsports)(10-7-2012)

Best Buy sponsoring Stenhouse at Charlotte: Roush Fenway Racing's Ricky Stenhouse Jr. will pilot the #6 Best Buy Ford in the October 13th Sprint Cup event at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Stenhouse, along with RFR teammate Matt Kenseth, will form a formidable pair of Best Buy Fords, with Kenseth's #17 Fusion also featuring the Best Buy blue and yellow for the event. It will mark the first time that Best Buy has sponsored two cars in a single race, with race fans treated to both the present and the future of the sport with the unique 'one-two punch' of Roush Fenway's first Sprint Cup Champion in Kenseth and its latest NASCAR Champion in the youthful Stenhouse. The race will be Stenhouse's third Sprint Cup event of the season and his fourth career Cup start.(Roush Fenway)(10-4-2012)

Roush Fenway looking for 700th top 5: This weekend Roush Fenway Racing will look for its monumental 700th NASCAR Sprint Cup top-five finish as NASCAR rolls into the "Monster Mile" at Dover International Speedway. The team earned its first top-five finish on April 10, 1988 at Bristol Motor Speedway, with a second-place finish that saw Mark Martin edge out future Hall-of-Famers Rusty Wallace, Bobby Allison and Richard Petty. The finish came in RFR's sixth career NASCAR start. As an organization Roush Fenway has totaled no less than 11 top-five finishes in any Cup season since 1989. The team set an organizational record with 61 top-five finishes in 2005, the same year it placed all five of its Sprint Cup entries inside the 10-race "Chase" for the Cup. The team scored 50 top-five Cup finishes in 2008 and 45 in 1998. Roush Fenway has totaled 30 or more top-five Sprint Cup finishes in 12 of its 24 completed seasons.(Roush Fenway)(9-29-2012)

Kenseth goes pink at Talladega: Matt Kenseth, driver of the #17 for Roush Fenway Racing, will sport a pink Ford Fusion when he rolls into Talladega Superspeedway for the Oct. 5-7 Good Sam Roadside Assistance 500 weekend. The pink ride came about through a partnership between Roush Fenway Racing, Talladega Superspeedway and the National Breast Cancer Foundation. In addition to Kenseth's pink ride, Roush Fenway Racing is also auctioning off an honorary pit crew experience to raise funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation. Fans can bid on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity through the NASCAR Foundation auction page. Bidding for the honorary pit crew experience with the No. 17 team closes at 8:00pm EST on Monday, October 1st. "When it comes to spreading the message of early detection of breast cancer, we need partners like Talladega Superspeedway and Roush Fenway Racing," says NBCF Founder & CEO, Janelle Hail. "Their support will help us fulfill our mission to save lives by providing free mammograms for the underserved, and their tradition of excellence and winning spirit will inspire hope in the many NASCAR fans and families that are facing this disease today."(Roush Fenway Racing), see an image of the car on the #17 team paint schemes page.(9-27-2012)

Fifth Third returns to #17 to sponsor Stenhouse in 2013 UPDATE: Fifth Third Bank will sponsor Ricky Stenhouse Jr. in the 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. Fifth Third is sponsoring the same car it backed earlier this season, but with a different driver [Matt Kenseth]. Stenhouse will drive the #17 Fifth Third Ford Fusion next season. Fifth Third will be the primary sponsor of Stenhouse at Daytona, Michigan, Kentucky and Martinsville next year and an associate sponsor at all other Sprint Cup races in 2013. It also will be the primary sponsor of Stenhouse's #6 Ford at this year's last Sprint Cup race of the season, the Ford EcoBoost 400 at Homestead-Miami Speedway Nov. 18. Jack Roush, co-owner of Roush Fenway Racing, which owns the car, said Fifth Third is one of three main sponsors of Stenhouse and the #17 team. "We have seen Ricky develop into a NASCAR Nationwide Series champion and we're pleased to provide this opportunity for him to begin his Sprint Cup Series career next season with Fifth Third Bank, Best Buy and Zest on board," Roush said. The deal follows a Fifth Third sponsorship announced in May of Matt Kenseth driving the same #17 Fifth Third Ford Fusion for four races this summer (Business Courier ), Kenseth will leave the team after 2012 and drive the #20 Job Gibbs Racing Toyota in 2013.(9-21-2012)
UPDATE: Ricky Stenhouse Jr. will run at least three Sprint Cup races for Roush Fenway Racing - Dover, Charlotte and Homestead - during the remainder of this season. "Right now, we're organized for three races with him at Dover, Charlotte and Homestead," said Jack Roush, "but if we decide his prospects for winning the Nationwide championship are improved by running more Sprint Cup races, we'll do that, and if we decide there's a sponsor that expresses interest and wants to take a look at him, or to be on board for an additional venue, we'll do that as well."(Gaston Gazette)(9-23-2012)

Best Buy Unveils Evolved Viewing Experience for Sports Fans: Best Buy launched the Best Buy Evolved Viewing Experience at Chicagoland Speedway. The Best Buy Evolved Viewing Experience showcases what you can do when you combine normal technology with some imagination and innovation resulting in an out-of-this-world experience. Optimized for racing, Best Buy partnered with Two Bit Circus to create a fully immersive experience for fans that makes them feel like they are actually part of the race. Best Buy launched the Evolved Viewing Experience in Chicago as part of its Roush Fenway Racing sponsorship activation program. In addition to the Chicago launch, the Best Buy Evolved Viewing Experience will be at track in Charlotte and Homestead during the Chase races this season. Best Buy has been a team sponsor for the past eight years, and the 2013 season will mark the company's ninth year with the sport.(RFR)(9-22-2012)

Sponsors returning to #17 team in 2013: UPDATE: Roush Fenway Racing confirmed that 2011 Nationwide Series champion Ricky Stenhouse Jr., will pilot its historic #17 Ford Fusion next season in the Sprint Cup Series. One of the emerging talents in NASCAR, Stenhouse steps into a championship-caliber program in the # 17, with current team partners Best Buy, Fifth Third Bank and Zest each returning to the team as primary sponsors in 2013. "I can't think of a better fit for Ricky than the #17 team," added Jack Roush. "Ricky will have the luxury of being flanked by a championship-level team from the start. His drive, determination and commitment to winning will mesh very well with the demeanor of the #17 team. It will be our job to put him in the best equipment possible, as well as to guide him through the learning curves that are part of his rookie season. Best Buy, Fifth Third Bank and Zest each joined Roush Fenway's #17 team as primary partners in 2012. These three partners will return to the #17 again next year, with each increasing their commitment in 2013 for Stenhouse's entry into Sprint Cup competition. With their involvement, the majority of Stenhouse's races for 2013 are fully sponsored.(Roush Fenway)(9-14-2012)
UPDATE: Roush Fenway announced that Best Buy, Fifth Third Bank and Zest will increase their sponsorship roles with the organization in 2013. Best Buy will be on Stenhouse's car for 12 races and #99-Carl Edwards' car for four, an increase of three races. Team president Steve Newmark said the #17 is 70 percent sponsored for next year, calling it a good sign since this time a year ago there was 100 percent availability for 2012 with Kenseth. Newmark said RFR's goal is to return to four cars in 2014. The organization shrank to three teams this season due to lack of sponsorship for the #6 car.(ESPN)(9-15-2012)

No crew chief changes expected at Roush next season: Team owner Jack Roush said on Friday at Chicagoland Speedway that he anticipates Jimmy Fennig remaining the crew chief for the #17 team with Ricky Stenhouse Jr. when he replaces Matt Kenseth. Kenseth is leaving the organization to drive the #20 at Joe Gibbs Racing next year. Roush also anticipates Chad Norris, who replaced Bob Osborne in mid-July due to unspecified health issues, to remain with #99-Carl Edwards. #16-Greg Biffle and crew chief Matt Puccia, who led the standings before they were reshuffled to reflect wins for Sunday's Chase opener, also are staying together. "Bob, his health is still a question mark,'' Roush said. "Chad Norris has done a great job. The team has rallied around Chad. There is no reason for me to believe from what I've seen so far that Chad won't be able to build that team to carry forward in 2013.'' Roush gave a similar evaluation of Fennig staying with Stenhouse.(ESPN)(9-14-2012)

It's Official - Matt Kenseth signs with Joe Gibbs Racing: Joe Gibbs Racing announced that 2003 NASCAR Cup Series Champion and two-time Daytona 500 winner, Matt Kenseth, has signed with the team to drive the #20 Toyota Camry with sponsorship from Dollar General and The Home Depot starting in 2013. "We are thrilled to be able to officially announce Matt will join Joe Gibbs Racing starting at the conclusion of this season," said Joe Gibbs, owner of Joe Gibbs Racing. "Everyone knows what he has accomplished in our sport as a champion and a consistent winner. He is well respected in the garage and his experience and knowledge will be extremely beneficial to our entire organization, especially Denny and Kyle." Kenseth is currently third in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series point standings with a win, nine top-five and 14 top-ten finishes thus far this season. Over the course of his career he has won a total of 22 Cup races while earning 122 top-five and 223 top-ten finishes.
"I'm excited to announce what the next chapter in my career will be," said Kenseth. "I remain totally committed to this season and working with my current team toward a championship and having this settled will only help my focus. JGR is an impressive organization with tremendous leadership and strong support from sponsors like Dollar General and The Home Depot. I'm very fortunate to have the opportunity to move from one great situation into another starting in 2013."(JGR), Gibbs also said during the press conference that Jason Ratcliff would remain as the crew chief for the #20 team.(9-4-2012)

Stewart talks about run in with Kenseth and helmet: #14-Tony Stewart, met with members of the media at Atlanta Motor Speedway and discussed some topics including the incident with #17-Matt Kenseth at Bristol, the transcript in part:
Q) YOU AND MATT (KENSETH) TALKED THIS MORNING IS EVERYTHING GOOD BETWEEN YOU TWO THEN?
Stewart: "Yeah, we are fine. It's like we mentioned earlier in the week, we have too much to do the last 10 weeks to be worrying about each other. It's just like we always said there are 43 people out there and they are not always going to agree on the track at the same time. The big thing is getting it done and over with now."
Q) THIS SPORT WAS BASICALLY THRUST INTO THE MAINSTREAM IN 1979 WHEN CALE (YARBOROUGH) AND DONNIE (ALLISON) WENT AFTER IT IN A FIGHT. THE FANS APPRECIATION FOR THAT RAW EMOTION HASN'T CHANGED ANY OVER THE YEARS. WHY DO YOU THINK THAT RESONATES SO MUCH WITH THE FANS?
Stewart: "I don't know it still makes me wonder why NASCAR won't let that moment be relived fully. People like emotion every other sport gets a cool off period, every other sport you get time to calm down where our deal it's a little bit different we don't have that. It's not like one play is a bad play and you go to another play the bad deal for us is we are done for the day. That is where it's different."
Q) IF YOU GET THAT HELMET BACK WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO WITH IT?
Stewart: "Charity auction if I get it back. For some reason it's MIA (Missing in action)."
Q) IT MIGHT END UP IN THE HALL OF FAME...
Stewart: "That's fine too if it ends up in the hall of fame so be it. There have been a lot of charities that have asked to have that for an auction right now."
Q) HAVE YOU ASKED FOR IT (THE HELMET) BACK?
Stewart: "No, not yet."(Team Chevy)(9-1-2012)

Comments from Kenseth about Bristol incident: #17-Matt Kenseth met the media shortly after 1 p.m. on Friday. Afterwards, he met with Tony Stewart to discuss the much-discussed incident at Bristol Motor Speedway last weekend that resulted in Stewart hurling his helmet at Kenseth's #17 Ford. "Honestly, last week I was really surprised," Kenseth said. "I wasn't trying to put our cars in a bad situation. I thought we were going to make it through there and I thought it was going to be alright, so I'm not sure what all went down there. But Tony and I, 99% of the time at least, show each other probably more respect and more room on the track than probably most people have. There have been a couple instances here and there, but I think, overall, we try to show each other a lot of respect and we usually get that back."(RacinToday)(9-1-2012)

JGR to announce Kenseth as driver next week: Joe Gibbs Racing plans to announce next Tuesday [Sept. 4th] that Matt Kenseth will be its newest driver beginning in 2013. The 2003 Sprint Cup champion will take over the #20 team driven by Joey Logano with Home Depot as his primary sponsor. JGR president J.D. Gibbs said on Saturday at Bristol Motor Speedway he still held out hope of re-signing Logano and adding a fourth team if sponsorship can be found. Logano is not expected to be a part of Tuesday's press conference. Logano also is a candidate for the #22 Cup team at Penske Racing. He recently said he was not interesting in a part-time Cup ride and full-time Nationwide Series ride that was one of his options at JGR. "He was OK with that until another opportunity came up," Gibbs said of Logano.(ESPN)(8-29-2012)

Kenseth still not talking about 2013 deal: #17-Matt Kenseth isn't exactly a man without a race team, but he still hasn't announced his deal for next year. It's a poorly kept secret that Kenseth will be driving for Joe Gibbs Racing in 2013, but sources have told the NASCAR Wire Service that Kenseth is embargoed contractually from announcing his new ride until a later date, perhaps before the end of August. Asked about the possible timing of the announcement, Kenseth was typically circumspect. "I would if I knew, but I don't know," Kenseth said. But is the deal for next year still in place? "I hope so," Kenseth said with a laugh.(NASCAR Wire Service)(8-12-2012)

Ford EcoBoost returns for Kenseth: #17-Matt Kenseth may never lay claim to being 'King of the Road' when it comes to turning left and right in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, but the 2003 series champion isn't about give up trying as he prepares for Sunday's annual Finger Lakes 355 at The Glen. In 25 career road course starts, Kenseth is still looking for his first victory and first top-five finish. In the only other such event this season at Sonoma in June, the Wisconsin native finished 13th but this figures to be tougher for Kenseth, who has only three top-10 performances in 12 all-time appearances at famed Watkins Glen International. Besides trying to get his initial victory on a road course, Kenseth will also be looking to get the #17 EcoBoost Ford Fusion its first series triumph. This is the seventh time in 2012 that Kenseth will be carrying the EcoBoost brand, which is in the midst of a global motorsports marketing campaign to raise its visibility among fans.(Ford Racing), see images of the scheme on the #17 Team Schemes page.(8-9-2012)

Roush says Penske will use Roush-Yates engines: UPDATES: Jack Roush says Penske has decided to run Roush-Yates Ford engines next season. Penske has said he will not be shutting down the 80-man operation he currently has, but it would seem unlikely that Ford would care for one of its star new players to also continue building Dodge engines on the side. A possible sale of that engine shop to Dodge itself has been speculated as the only logical solution.
Roush: "Roger and I will cooperate on things that are in our common interests, and we will compete on things that reflect our need to be independent and justify our space on the race track. We've done the bulk of the work on the 2013 car; we did invite them to have a look at what we've done in concert with Ford, and made sure we had their blessing, along with the other Ford teams involved. The indication are -- though I don't know if the papers have been signed yet -- that he will use our engines. He does have a few things he does different with his cars and the way the engines are mounted; so we'll respect his experience and his package preference. Whether we wind up with the same package for all Ford cars or not is yet to be determined."
Roush, asked about the possibility of Penske becoming a business partner with Roush and Doug Yates in the engine operations, said "There is no plan on the table for Roger for any ownership in the engine program. But I stop short of saying that would never be a consideration going forward."(MikeMulhern.net)(8-4-2012)
UPDATE: Roush Yates Engines announced that it will provide Ford FR9 engines to Penske Racing beginning with the 2013 NASCAR season. Penske Racing announced earlier this year that it would be returning to Ford Racing in 2013 in the Sprint Cup and Nationwide Series. "It's truly an honor to provide Penske Racing with Roush Yates Ford engines," said Doug Yates, CEO of Roush Yates. "I have always admired Roger Penske as a team owner and a respected businessman in our sport and beyond. I am looking forward to many wins, championships, and other successes in supporting the Penske organization." Penske Racing fielded Ford entries from 1991 through 2002. "Ford has been consistent in its belief that we will be stronger with one engine specification rather than continuing with an independent approach," said Tim Cindric, President of Penske Racing. "Roush Yates has a proven record and we are looking forward to many successes together."(Roush Yates)(8-6-2012)
UPDATE 2: Penske Racing will switch to Roush Yates horsepower in its 2013 move to Ford in the Sprint Cup Series, but the team still is exploring ways to keep its 63 engine employees. Penske President Tim Cindric told USA Today Sports that still building motors for Dodge teams in NASCAR's premier series wouldn't be an option, though. "Relative to us, they said they're going in a different direction," Cindric said. "We don't see there being any more potential on the NASCAR side with Dodge." Cindric said Penske has explored sending some of its engine staff to Roush Yates, reassigning others within Penske Racing and perhaps pursuing engine projects in other series with the rest of the employees in a scaled-down engine room. "We feel our biggest asset wasn't the (horsepower) but the people," Cindric said. "That's a strong group of people we didn't want to break up."(USA Today)(8-7-2012)

Roush Fenway names Senior VP: Roush Fenway Racing has announced the addition of sports marketing veteran Pete Thuresson to its marketing operations. Thuresson will serve as senior vice president of sales and business development, overseeing Roush Fenway's business development and marketing partnership efforts. A 20-plus year veteran of sports marketing, Thuresson boasts an extensive background in partnership management and industry marketing. He previously headed up national partnerships for FOX Sports in Chicago.(Roush Fenway Racing)(8-2-2012)

Kenseth can't talk about 2013 deal yet but: Matt Kenseth will drive for Joe Gibbs Racing in 2013, but according to multiple sources, the Sprint Cup points leader can't talk about it until mid- to late-August at the earliest due to a stipulation in his current contract with Roush Fenway Racing. Roush announced last month that the 2003 Sprint Cup champion was leaving after the 2012 season and would be replaced by reigning Nationwide Series champion Ricky Stenhouse Jr. Kenseth confirmed at the time he has a deal for 2013, but declined to discuss details. RFR officials declined to comment on any portion of Kenseth's contract. Joe Gibbs Racing president J.D. Gibbs declined on Sunday at Indianapolis Motor Speedway to comment on Kenseth's situation. But Gibbs said the goal was to have four teams in 2013, and that every effort was being made to re-sign Joey Logano, whose contract expires after this season, if sponsorship can be found. "We want him to retire at JGR," Gibbs said. "We're trying to figure out how to make all of that work." Sources said Kenseth would take over the Home Depot and likely Dollar General sponsors currently on Logano's #20 Toyota. They left open the possibility of Kenseth running the #20 or another number. Sources said JGR has looked at several options for Logano, from running a full-time Nationwide schedule and part-time Cup schedule to running a full-time Cup schedule with a part-time or full-time Nationwide slate. "We've talked a number of different potentials, but obviously we'd like him to be in Cup full-time," Gibbs said. Logano also has been shopping for other options in 2013. The #22 car at Penske Racing could become one spot with driver AJ Allmendinger indefinitely suspended for violating NASCAR's drug policy. Kenseth isn't talking to anybody, at least not about his future after Roush. "No," he recently said when asked if he could shed light on his 2013 plans. "I hoped to do it a couple of weeks ago. I don' t know when it's gonna happen. You guys will know the same time I do, I guess."(ESPN)(7-30-2012)

Ford EcoBoost Will be Seen Around the World: EcoBoost is taking over the world - at least when it comes to Ford Motor Company's motorsports program in the month of August. Ford's latest engine technology, which provides increased fuel efficiency and decreased emissions without sacrificing power, has been a major hit with consumers worldwide. Beginning with the first weekend in August, motorsports fans will get a heavy dose of Ford EcoBoost highlighted through a unique livery on selected racing vehicles around the world. Ford will use its North American racing programs in NASCAR Sprint Cup and Nationwide, NHRA drag racing and Best in the Desert, while its FIA World Rally Championship and China Touring Car Championship programs will also participate. The livery campaign kicks off on the weekend of Aug. 3-5 with NHRA in Seattle and the World Rally Championship event in Finland. The promotion will continue the following weekend of August 10-12 at Watkins Glen International as champion drivers Matt Kenseth and Ricky Stenhouse Jr. compete in the NASCAR Sprint Cup and Nationwide Series, respectively. Kenseth will be in his #17 Ford EcoBoost Fusion while Stenhouse drives his #6 Ford EcoBoost Mustang. Two other series will round out the Ford EcoBoost blitz August 17-19 in the Las Vegas to Reno off-road race sanctioned by the Best in the Desert Racing Association and at the China Touring Car Championship event at the Ordos International Circuit in China. The Ford EcoBoost livery made its debut on the 2013 NASCAR Fusion that debuted in January and race fans have also seen the livery debut earlier this year in series such at Rally America and Formula Ford Great Britain.(Roush Yates)(7-27-2012)

Kenseth remains mum on team switch: For nearly two weeks, #17-Matt Kenseth has been hounded by one question. And moments after guiding his Harley-Davidson into Bristol Motor Speedway Tuesday afternoon, the NASCAR Sprint Cup points leader heard it again. Now that his profitable 14-year partnership with car owner Jack Roush is over, just what team will Kenseth drive for next season? Once again, Kenseth deftly danced around the answer. "We've been together forever with Roush," Kenseth said. "Three or four years ago we made a commitment to race together through 2012. That never got extended through 2013, so we will just race as hard as we can until the end of this season." The hottest rumor involves Kenseth landing at Joe Gibbs Racing. Meanwhile, defending Nationwide Series champion Ricky Stenhouse Jr. will replace Kenseth in the familiar #17 Ford next season. Kenseth was in Bristol Tuesday as part of the NASCAR Winner's Circle program to promote the IRWIN Tools Night Race at BMS on Aug. 25. Along with NASCAR television personality Kyle Petty, Kenseth rode his motorcycle from Smokies Park in Sevierville to BMS with members of Rolling Thunder, a group made up mostly of military veterans. Rolling Thunder's purpose is to bring awareness to those military members who were prisoners of war or are missing in action. The 40-year-old Kenseth refused to offer any hints as to his future place of employment. He added that he hasn't discussed the issue with fellow competitors. "I really haven't talked to anyone about it, except for the parties involved," Kenseth said. "After Roush put the release out that I wasn't going to be back in 2013 and I got through last weekend, it was almost a relief in a way because the last two or three months have been somewhat stressful. I wasn't sure what I was going to do and what was going to happen. With all that being out there now, I can just concentrate on the season." #24-Jeff Gordon, who has been affiliated with Hendrick Motorsports since 1993, is the only NASCAR Sprint Cup driver who has a longer partnership than Kenseth and Roush.(Bristol Herald Courier)
BUT am hearing the Kenseth will be in the #20 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota with Home Depot and Dollar Genreal as the primary co-sponsors. Current driver Joey Logano could end up in a 4th JGR Toyota or could head elsewhere, such as the #22 Penske Racing Ford if A.J. Allmendinger doesn't return to that ride in 2013.(7-11-2012)

Different look for Kenseth at New Hampshire: This weekend at Loudon NH at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Matt Kenseth will pilot the #17 NESN National Ford Fusion where he has an average starting position of 20.7 and an average finishing position of 14.0 (RFR). The New England Sports Network (NESN) is owned by the Boston Red Sox and Boston Bruins and delivered to over 4 million homes throughout the six-state New England region and nationally as NESN National. The definitive source for New England sports programming, NESN has consistently been one of the top rated regional sports network in the country and was the first regional sports network in the country to originate every game and studio show in high definition.(7-10-2012)

Kenseth wins Slinger Nationals; Kyle Busch second: Matt Kenseth has won a NASCAR championship. He's won two Daytona 500s. And now he's won a record six titles in the 33-year history of the Miller Lite Slinger Nationals. While that's not quite the same, it's not a bad accomplishment, either, for the old-school short-track racer from Cambridge. "It's always fun to win, that's for sure," Kenseth said Sunday in Slinger Speedway's victory lane. "It's always fun when you can beat Kyle. It's hard to beat him." That's Kyle Busch, always a threat in NASCAR and the 2011 Nationals champ. Kenseth beat him on a restart with 24 laps to go - after a caution flag he didn't want - and pulled away by nearly a second at the checkered flag. Busch didn't look happy when he climbed from his car and did not talk to reporters. Ross Kenseth, Matt's son and the pole-sitter, rallied and benefited from attrition to finish third, another second behind. Michael Bilderback and Rich Bickle filled out the top five.(Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel)(7-2-2012)

Roush would like to have kept Kenseth: NASCAR team owner Jack Roush said Friday he was surprised to learn Matt Kenseth was leaving Roush Fenway Racing, and Roush wished he would have done more things to keep him. RFR announced Tuesday that Kenseth would leave the organization at the end of the season and Ricky Stenhouse Jr., the defending Nationwide Series champion, will replace Kenseth in the #17 Ford in Sprint Cup. "I will say I was surprised when I learned [Kenseth] would not be signing with us," Roush said at Kentucky Speedway. "I won't comment on any of the negotiations because we have an agreement not to talk about that." But Roush added that he probably could have done more to re-sign Kenseth, the 2003 Cup champion, had he known Kenseth was serious about leaving. "If I was as diligent on that end as I am about finding out why a fuel pump broke, I might have been able to stop it," Roush said. "From my standpoint, he will be moving to the dark side. But the friendship part for us will survive. I've not lost respect for Matt and I hope he hasn't for me. I've enjoyed the 15 years with Matt and the success he's had as a driver. He is a cornerstone here and his DNA is all over this organization."(ESPN.com)(6-30-2012)

Logano says no change in his status: #20-Joey Logano didn't know anything more about his 2013 plans Friday than he did Tuesday morning before Roush Fenway Racing announced that Matt Kenseth was leaving its organization. Kenseth is expected to join Joe Gibbs Racing, either in a fourth car or as a replacement for Logano, who does not have a contract for next year. "I've heard nothing new," Logano said following qualifying at Kentucky Speedway. "We're still up in the air on a lot of things." Team president J.D. Gibbs said Wednesday that he would like Logano to remain at JGR long term but the sides don't have a deal done for 2013. Gibbs declined to discuss whether Kenseth was joining the organization. "We want (Logano) to be here forever," Gibbs said Wednesday. "That's kind of what we're working on. Until you have stuff laid out (and can say), 'Here's the plan,' it's not really worth talking about."(Sporting News)(6-30-2012)

No Cup champion has changed teams at end of year: Looking back at the history of the Chase, we've had just five drivers qualify knowing they'd be with a different organization - or not even racing - the following season. None of them were in serious contention for the title, and just one finished inside the top 5:
Year, Driver, Pending Silly Season Move, Points Finish
2005: Rusty Wallace (from Penske to retirement) - 8th
2005: Kurt Busch (from Roush to Penske) - 10th
2006: Mark Martin (from Roush to part-time schedule with Bobby Ginn) - 9th
2007: Kyle Busch (from Hendrick to Gibbs) - 5th
2008: Tony Stewart (from Gibbs to self-owned team) - 9th
[2012: Matt Kenseth (Roush to Gibbs?) - ?]
(Frontstretch)(6-29-2012)

Kenseth leaving Roush: UPDATES: #17-Matt Kenseth declined to discuss his future with Roush Fenway Racing before Sunday's race at Sonoma, where there was rampant speculation he's been talking to other race teams. Kenseth acts as his own agent, and has been with Roush his entire career. But his #17 Ford has limited sponsorship, and team owner Jack Roush has been paying out of his own pocket to ensure Kenseth runs a full season. "You know I don't talk about my contract," Kenseth said. "I'd like to have something to tell you, but I don't have anything to talk about right now. Until I have something to announce, I don't talk about it."
Everybody else was talking, though, and Kenseth's name this weekend was linked to both Joe Gibbs Racing, a Toyota team, and Penske Racing, which is moving from Dodge to Ford in 2013. Kenseth is a longtime Ford driver. JGR team president J.D. Gibbs declined to discuss any possible negotiations with Kenseth. JGR not only has room for expansion to a fourth car, but Joey Logano's status as driver of the #20 is currently unresolved. Logano is in the final year of his contract. "I'm not allowed to talk," he said.
Roger Penske was not at Sunday's race, but senior vice president of Penske Corp., Bud Denker said the team is not talking to Kenseth and is content with AJ Allmendinger in the #22. "Our expectations are that AJ will be in the car and Todd (Gordon) will be the crew chief next year," Denker said. "So we are not talking to Matt, that's confirmed." The Penske move to Ford has led to talk the organization could be a potential home for Nationwide Series champion Ricky Stenhouse Jr. or 2011 Daytona 500 winner Trevor Bayne, who are both in long-term contracts with Roush but are stymied because of sponsorship woes.(ESPN/Associated Press)(6-24-2012)
UPDATE: Roush Fenway Racing announced that 2011 NASCAR Nationwide Series champion Ricky Stenhouse Jr. will compete for the team full-time in NASCAR Sprint Cup Series competition beginning in 2013, while Matt Kenseth and Roush Fenway will part ways at the conclusion of the 2012 season. "Ricky Stenhouse Jr. has more than proved his abilities on the race track," said team co-owner Jack Roush. "We feel that he is not only a key piece of our team's future, but a key piece of the future of the sport. Roush Fenway is an organization with a wonderful past and present, as well as an extremely promising future, and I can't think of a better candidate than Ricky to usher in the next era of success for the team. Of course, I'd like to thank Matt Kenseth for his many years of loyal service," added Roush. "Matt has been an integral part of this organization for well over a decade, and we are extremely appreciative of his accomplishments and contributions to the team, and will always consider him a part of the Roush Fenway family."(Roush Fenway Racing)(6-26-2012)
UPDATE 2: Statement from Ford's Jamie Allison, "All of us at Ford are certainly disappointed to hear that Matt will be leaving, and he will be certainly missed by us and the Ford Racing fans. We are thankful for Matt's winning efforts and championship-caliber success with the Roush and Ford racing programs these past 16 years, both on and off the track. We will focus on this year and look forward to more success on the track in his #17 Ford Fusion this season."(Ford Racing)(6-27-2012)
UPDATE 3: Roush Fenway president Steve Newmark said Roush Fenway's likely 2013 scenario would be for the organization to have three Cup teams with #99-Carl Edwards, #16-Greg Biffle and Stenhouse while Trevor Bayne, who currently runs a part-time Cup schedule for Wood Brothers Racing and select Nationwide races for Roush Fenway, would replace Stenhouse in the team's full-time Nationwide car. Whether current Kenseth crew chief Jimmy Fennig will be Stenhouse's crew chief is still to be determined, Newmark said.(Sporting News)(6-27-2012)
UPDATE 4: Matt Kenseth has a Sprint Cup ride in place for 2013 and beyond, the NASCAR point leader from Cambridge told the Journal Sentinel on Wednesday in his first print media interview since announcing he would leave Roush Fenway Racing at the end of the season. When that deal is announced is undetermined, Kenseth said. The decision to leave was made in a meeting last week with team owner Jack Roush, Kenseth said. "There's a lot of stuff through the season that's probably led us to this point," Kenseth said. "There isn't really a smoking gun, there really isn't an inside story about a firing or an argument or really any of that. At the end of the day, I had an opportunity to go try something else. The timing all worked out. I think everything happens for a reason. Things just kind of lined up to maybe try something else in 2013 and beyond that I'm kind of excited about.(Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)(6-27-2012)

Roush plane crash in 2010 attributed to pilot error: The National Transportation Safety Board has concluded that the 2010 plane crash in which team owner [#'s 16,17,99] Jack Roush was injured was caused by pilot error. The NTSB released Friday its determination of probable cause in Roush's July 27, 2010 crash at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wis. The report confirmed Roush's version of what happened - that he was concerned about a plane taking off on the same runway where he was landing, causing him to ground-loop his airplane. The NTSB stated that after Roush aborted the landing, he should have throttled to full power instead of throttling to about 33 percent of full power. The NTSB report indicated that Roush could have landed the plane safely, but Roush told investigators that he didn't throttle to full power because he was making sure there were no other planes in the area.(Sporting News), see full NTSB report at ntsb.gov.(6-24-2012)

Roush to drive pace car in Michigan NNS race: What's next for Jack Roush, NASCAR team owner, successful Northville businessman, passionate pilot and two-time plane-crash survivor? What about pace-car driver? "Well, they're going to let me drive the Ford Mustang pace car for today's Nationwide Series race," Roush said Friday. "At 8:30 (in the morning), I'm going to get my instructions. I don't know if they'll let me drive afterwards. My guess is I'll just be in the pace car for one of the preliminary laps and won't be there when it's time to turn them loose for the green flag." Roush, 70, is a very competent driver -- he raced dragsters as a youngster and plenty of muscle cars over the years. Today, Roush will be at the wheel of one of his Roush-built Stage 3 Mustangs to pace the race. The vehicle was donated by Roush for auction with a portion of the proceeds going to the SAE International Foundation for science and math education.(Detroit Free Press)(6-16-2012)

Kenseth interviews himself: With no NASCAR official at the podium when he entered the Charlotte Motor Speedway media center Thursday, #17-Matt Kenseth took control of the situation and introduced himself. "Joining us in the media center right now is Matt Kenseth," he deadpanned. "He comes in second in points. Don't know where he finished last year. Matt, why don't you talk about it." Kenseth scooted from behind the podium microphone to his usual seat at the table and started answering his own question, to the guffaws of a roomful of reporters.(CMS Pit Notes)(5-25-2012)

Roush Fenway Racing to have three Fastenal sponsored cars: Victory Lane can be an elusive destination for many teams and sponsors, but Fastenal has an advantage Sunday night in the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway by sponsoring all three of Roush Fenway Racing's Sprint Cup entries. RFR has an impressive record at Charlotte, winning the 600-mile race four times and totaling 20 victories there in NASCAR competition. "Everyone on the Fastenal 'blue team' has been looking forward to this race all season long," said Fastenal president and CEO Will Oberton. "When we started out as a sponsor in the truck series six years ago, we never would have dreamed that we'd see the Fastenal name on three of the premier Cup Series cars in a single race."
The Fastenal "NASCAR Unites" paint schemes will be carried on the #16 of Greg Biffle, the #17 of Matt Kenseth and of course the #99 of Carl Edwards. The three drivers have a combined total of two wins, 15 top-five and 27 top-10 finishes at Charlotte.(Roush Fenway Racing), see images of the schemes on the #16 Team schemes page, #17 Team schemes page and #99 Team schemes page.(5-24-2012)

Roush, Kenseth working on new contract: Despite sponsorship issues, #17-Matt Kenseth's future is secure at Roush Fenway Racing. Team owner Jack Roush said Monday that the 2003 Sprint Cup champion, in the final year of his current contract, will have a ride with RFR as long as he wants one. "Matt Kenseth is a cornerstone of Roush Fenway and he'll be part of it as long as I am, as long as he wants to be,'' Roush said. "He certainly has a place here as long as I'm able to stay at the head of it.'' RFR president Steve Newmark said Kenseth's No. 17 car still has eight to 10 unsponsored races. While sponsorship remains an issue for 2013 as well, Newmark echoed Roush's comments on negotiating a new deal for Kenseth. "It is my hope, expectation and desire that Matt continue with Roush,'' Newmark said. "I expect to see him retire (at Roush). He is an integral part of the organization. When you think of Matt you think of Roush. When you think of Jack you think of Matt Kenseth.'' Newmark said the sponsorship focus at RFR, not only for Kenseth but the entire organization, is on 2013 and getting back to four full-time Cup cars and one full-time Nationwide Series car. The organization shrank to three Cup cars this season when sponsorship couldn't be found for the #6 and David Ragan. The anticipation is Nationwide Series points leader Ricky Stenhouse Jr. will move into the #6 Cup car in 2013 and Trevor Bayne will drive Nationwide full time.(ESPN)(5-15-2012)

New sponsor for Kenseth? number? UPDATE 2: Roush Fenway Racing is scheduled to make announcement at the NASCAR Hall of Fame on Monday, May 14th for an announcement regarding the new number on Matt Kensethąs #17 Sprint Cup Ford Fusion, as well as a new multi-year partner for RFR and Kenseth. Kenseth and team co-owner Jack Roush will be on hand for the event.(Roush Fenway Racing), NOTE: the PR doesn't say Kenseth will have a new car number but a new number on the car. And it could be a special number for the All-Star race like last season when Jimmie Johnson ran the #5 in the event.(RFR PR)(5-10-2012)
UPDATE: Remember that advisory about the announcement of a "new number" on the two-time Daytona 500 winner's Sprint Cup Series Ford Fusions? "They did what they wanted to do," Kenseth said Friday from Darlington, S.C. "They created a big buzz. That's for sure." Kenseth, a Cambridge, Wis., native who won the 2003 Cup title, said he read the news release like everyone else. Just more carefully than most. "Everybody's kind of worked up about it," he said. "I just read the release at the same time everybody else did, and I didn't read anything in there that said we were changing our car number." An explanation of the "new number" and an announcement of a "new multi-year partner" -- notice it didn't say anything about a full-time primary sponsor -- are scheduled for Monday morning at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, N.C.(Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)(5-12-2012)
UPDATE 2: Fifth Third Bancorp announced a multi-year marketing partnership with Roush Fenway Racing, beginning this season with four races as the primary sponsor of Matt Kenseth's #17 Ford Fusion in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. A similar number of races for the following years will be announced at a later date.
Fifth Third will be the primary sponsor of Kenseth's Ford at four Sprint Cup Series races in 2012 including:
Sprint All Star Race in Charlotte, NC on May 19
Quaker State 400 in Sparta, KY on June 30
Crown Royal's "Your Hero's Name Here" race in Indianapolis, IN on July 29
Pure Michigan 400 in Brooklyn, MI on August 19
"Fifth Third Bank is excited to partner with Roush Fenway Racing and Matt Kenseth on this Sprint Cup Series sponsorship," said Greg Carmichael, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Fifth Third Bancorp. "Our organizations share many common values including a focus on teamwork and a desire to challenge the status quo to be the best at what we do. We are looking forward to working with the Roush Fenway Racing organization, and Matt Kenseth, to help drive our business and build the Fifth Third Bank brand." The partnership between Fifth Third Bank and Roush Fenway Racing was announced Monday, May 14th at the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte where the paint scheme for the Fifth Third Ford Fusion was also unveiled.(4-traders.com), see an image of the car on the #17 Team Schemes page.(5-14-2012)

Roush Fenway Racing to Host Fan Day on May 24: Roush Fenway Racing will host its annual Fan Day on Thursday, May 24 at its Concord, N.C. campus. The Roush Fenway drivers, show cars and sponsor booths will highlight the activities planned that day. The event will kick off at 8am when tickets will be handed out for the autograph sessions. The autograph sessions begin at 10:00am with Roush Fenway drivers Matt Kenseth, Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Trevor Bayne and team owner Jack Roush. Then Carl Edwards and Greg Biffle will sign for fans at 11:30am.
Several displays will be on hand along with show cars, free samples, food and a band. The RFR gift shop and museum will also be open extended hours throughout the race weekends at Charlotte. "Our fan day is a great opportunity for people of all ages to get to meet the drivers, see the show cars up close and learn about the wide range of products our sponsors offer," said Jack Roush. "It is a fun way to kick off the Memorial Day race weekend and we enjoy having so many fans visit our facility." Admission is free and fans of all ages are encouraged to attend.(RFR)(5-12-2012)

Fastenal to sponsor all 3 Roush cars in Coca-Cola 600: Fastenal will sponsor all three Roush Fenway Racing entries in the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway on May 27. The Fastenal paint schemes for #99-Carl Edwards, #16-Greg Biffle and #17-Matt Kenseth will also incorporate the "NASCAR Unites - An American Salute" red, white and blue theme. This is not the first time Fastenal has sponsored the RFR fleet. Last year all three RFR Nationwide Series Fords displayed the Fastenal colors at the Charlotte race in May. The Blue Team placed first (Kenseth), second (Edwards) and fourth (Ricky Stenhouse Jr.).(Roush Fenway Racing)(5-3-2012)

Ross Kenseth Gets His First PASS South Win: Ross Kenseth [son of Matt Kenseth] took his first major Southern Super Late Model victory Saturday night in the PASS South Orange Blossom Special at Orange County Speedway (NC). The victory made Ross Kenseth the second driver to win Super Late Model events in three of the country's top series, the Pro All Star Series, ARCA/CRA Super Series and the ASA Midwest Tour. The other driver was Kyle Busch who complete the task last July in Oxford, Maine.(51 Sports PR, more at rosskenseth.net)(4-24-2012)

Ford EcoBoost to sponsor Kenseth: #17-Matt Kenseth, will sport the primary colors promoting Ford EcoBoost at Kansas Speedway this upcoming weekend. This is the 2nd that the #17 entry for Roush Fenway Racing will carry the Ford EcoBoost paint scheme after running the scheme at Auto Club Speedway in March. Ford EcoBoost technology uses turbo-charging and direct gasoline injection to boost engine output, thus reducing emissions and improving fuel efficiency by as much as 20%, see images of car/scheme on the #17 Team Schemes page.(4-17-2012)

Zest to sponsor Kenseth another race: from Zest's Facebook - "Zest would like to thank all fans for their continued support of our products and our Zestfully Clean driver, #17-Matt Kenseth. Due to this enthusiasm, we are happy to announce we will be sponsoring Matt in another race on May 12th in Darlington, SC.", see images of the car on my #17 Team Schemes page.(4-17-2012)

Kenseth celebrates Daytona 500 win: About a month and a half after winning the 54th annual Daytona 500 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race, #17-Matt Kenseth was finally able to reunite with his winning car and celebrate his historic victory with race fans during the Champion's Luncheon at Daytona International Speedway on Wednesday afternoon. "It's pretty cool to see (the car) sitting there with all the confetti on it, just like it was sitting in Victory Lane, and seeing the fans lined up out there," said Kenseth, who was joined by his owner Jack Roush and crew chief Jimmy Fennig. "It's unusual to celebrate today, but it was kind of an unusual race so I might as well just keep that going." For the first time in history, rain postponed the start of this year's Daytona 500 as well as the traditional day-after Champion's Breakfast. The "Great American Race" was rescheduled for Monday night, Feb. 27 and a great crowd returned to witness Kenseth hold off Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Greg Biffle to capture his second career Daytona 500 triumph. During the Champion's Luncheon, Kenseth, Roush and Fennig took part in a fan forum, signed autographs and participated in media interviews. Kenseth also joined Daytona International Speedway President Joie Chitwood III in unveiling the logo for the 2013 Daytona 500 scheduled for February 24, 2013. "It's always good when you see the fans enthused and show up to these events especially a couple months later and on a Wednesday around lunch time," Kenseth said. "It's pretty neat." The confetti-covered #17 Best Buy Ford will remain on display at Gatorade Victory Lane inside the Daytona International Speedway Tours and Ticket Office and will be returned to the team prior to the 2013 Daytona 500.(DIS)(4-12-2012)

Kenseth to return to Daytona for Daytona 500 Champion's Breakfast: Roush Fenway Racing's two-time DAYTONA 500 Champion, #17-Matt Kenseth, is set to return to the site of his historic win this week for a rescheduled fan event celebrating the team's victory. The win in the 54th "Great American Race" also earned a milestone victory for Roush Fenway Racing as the organization earned its 300th NASCAR win in the process. Originally scheduled as the Champion's Breakfast for the morning of February 27, 2012, the event had to be rescheduled after rain showers forced the DAYTONA 500 to be run Monday night on February 28th. The event is open to fans and includes a fan forum question and answer event with Kenseth, team owner Jack Roush, and crew chief of the #17 Best Buy team, Jimmy Fennig. Doors open at 10:45 a.m. and fans will have the opportunity to have their picture taken with the winning No. 17 Best Buy Ford Fusion which is on display at the facility for the next year. Lunch will also be available for those in attendance, and guests will have the opportunity to get a tour of Daytona International Speedway. Tickets for the original Champion's Breakfast event for February 27, 2012 will be honored for the Champion's Lunch on April 11th. Tickets are also available for $40 by calling 1-800-PITSHOP or online at daytonainternationalspeedway.com.(Roush Fenway Racing)(4-10-2012)

#17 to honor wounded U.S. Marine at Martinsville: In an effort to salute those who have given so much to protect our freedoms, Roush Fenway Racing and driver of the #17 Ford, Matt Kenseth, will be running a special paint scheme at Martinsville Speedway for the Goody's Fast Relief 500. Kenseth's car will be the #17 Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation/Gary Sinise Foundation Ford and will feature a salute to United States Marine Corps Corporal Josh "J.B." Kerns. Kerns was a combat engineer with the U.S. Marine Corps and was on a mine sweep on April 7, 2011 in Afghanistan during his third tour of duty. An improvised explosive device (IED) detonated nearby and Kerns lost both of his legs along with his right arm due to the blast. Almost a year later after that fateful day, Matt Kenseth will race the #17 Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers/Gary Sinise Foundation Ford at Martinsville as a tribute to Kerns for the sacrifices he made for this country. As part of their Building for America's Bravest program, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation and the Gary Sinise Foundation announced that they will build a "smart home" for Kerns in his hometown of Ararat, Virginia which is located nearby to Martinsville Speedway. As part of the fundraising efforts associated with this program, Lionel NASCAR Collectables will create a die-cast of the #17 Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation/Gary Sinise Foundation Ford and a large portion of those proceeds will go to building Kerns' new smart home.(Roush Fenway Racing), and more info about a fundraiser on Saturday, see my Racing Charities page.(3-27-2012)

Ford EcoBoost to sponsor Kenseth: #17-Matt Kenseth, will sport the primary colors promoting Ford EcoBoost at Auto Club Speedway this upcoming weekend. This is the first time that the #17 entry for Roush Fenway Racing will carry the Ford EcoBoost paint scheme and comes at a track where Kenseth has achieved success at in the past; including three Sprint Cup victories. Ford EcoBoost earned its first NASCAR [Nationwide] victory as a primary sponsor at Las Vegas Motor Speedway with Roush Fenway Racing's Ricky Stenhouse Jr. in the #6 Ford [Stenhouse also ran the EcoBoost scheme in the Daytona 500 on the #6 Ford]. Ford EcoBoost technology uses turbo-charging and direct gasoline injection to boost engine output, thus reducing emissions and improving fuel efficiency by as much as 20%. Ford will offer fuel-efficient EcoBoost engines in 11 vehicles in 2012, up from seven in 2011, tripling the production capacity of EcoBoost-equipped Ford vehicles. Expanded availability in high-volume nameplates helps make fuel economy more affordable for hundreds of thousands of drivers.(Roush Fenway Racing)(3-20-2012)

NASCAR says Kenseth legally beat Keselowski to line on Bristol restart: Generally, there are two cardinal rules when it comes to NASCAR's double-file restarts: don't change lanes before you cross the start/finish line and if you're in second, don't beat the leader to the start/finish line. With 154 laps to go in Sunday's Food City 500, #17-Matt Kenseth restarted second. The leader, #2-Brad Keselowski, was next to him on the inside line. It was the first time the leader had taken the inside line all day. Kenseth clearly beat Keselowski to the start/finish line as you can see in the video above, and the two entered turn one side-by-side before Kenseth prevailed and cleared Keselowski a few laps later. Kenseth never conceded the position to Keselowski, nor was he black-flagged by NASCAR. Why? Because according to NASCAR spokesman Kerry Tharp, race officials deemed that Keselowski hadn't mashed the gas in the designated restart zone before the start/finish line, allowing the second-place driver -- Kenseth -- the right of way to accelerate on his own.(Yahoo Sports)(3-19-2012)

Matt Kenseth wins the Daytona 500: #17-Matt Kenseth won the 54th running of the Daytona 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Daytona International Speedway for his 2nd Daytona 500 win and 22nd career win. Kenseth won in a green-white-checkered finish after a wreck on lap 197, the race ran 202 laps. The race was twice delayed by rain, first from Sunday to Monday at 12:00noon/et, then to 7:00pm/et. Then there was a 2:05:29 red flag when #42-Montoya had a transmission break during a caution as he was catching up to the field, lost control of the car and slammed into the safety truck / jet dryer, destroying his #42 Target Chevy and causing the jet dryer to leak get fuel and catch fire. There was a line of fuel on fire from the jet dryer at the top of the track to the bottom of the banking. After the fire was put out, the track was cleaned up, inspected and the race restarted with 40 laps to go.
#88-Earnhardt Jr. finished 2nd [his sixth 2nd place finish since his last win] followed by #16-Biffle, #11-Hamlin, #31-Burton, #27-Menard, #29-Harvick, #99-Edwards (pole sitter), #20-Logano and #55-Martin. 2011 Champ, #14-Stewart was involved in a late accident and finished 16th. #48-Johnson got tapped by #33-Sadler and caused the first caution on lap 2, taking Johnson out of the race [finishing 42nd] and collecting #10-Danica Patrick [who got repairs and finished 38th]. Three-time Daytona 500 winner #24-Gordon has an engine expire and finished 40th.
There was 10 cautions for 42 laps along with a 2 hour 5 minute red flag for the track cleanup after the jet dryer accident. There were 27 lead changes among 13 drivers. The estimated attendence was 140,000 (originally estimated at 180,000), down from 182,000 in 2011.
See race results, wards, money won and more on the Daytona Race Results page (pdf) and also on the Official Daytona Race Report (pdf)(2-27-2012)

Roush Fenway Scores Historic 300th Victory with Daytona 500 Win: Roush Fenway Racing officially kicked off it's 25th Anniversary season in grand fashion on Monday night, with #17-Matt Kenseth holding off teammate #16-Greg Biffle as the organization claimed its historic 300th NASCAR victory with its second Daytona 500 victory in the first ever night-time running of the famed event at Daytona International Speedway.
"It feels great," said Kenseth. "We even went overtime a little bit since we didn't quite go the whole distance the first time we won it. We had a really fast car all day and overcame a lot of adversity and problems with the car that we figured out. We had a great pit stop at the end that put us into position. It feels great. I wasn't expecting to win when I woke up this morning so it feels good to be sitting here."
Kenseth and Biffle combined to lead 83 of 200 laps in the race, with Kenseth taking the lead for the final time with 37 laps remaining and holding the point until the race's conclusion with a green-white-checkered finish. With the victory, Roush Fenway becomes the first team in NASCAR history to win 300 races.
"This is a special night," said team co-owner Jack Roush. "It feels great. It is very fitting that Matt won the 300th victory that we have had since we started in 1988 and (crew chief) Jimmy Fennig has been with us for most of the time and Matt has been here most of the time as well. It is great to celebrate our 300th win here with the 54th Daytona 500. This is Matt's second 500 win and that makes it special as well."(Roush Fenway Racing)(2-28-2012)

All Roush Fenway Racing teams switch to Valvoline NextGen oil: Less than one year after the Valvoline brand introduced a revolutionary recycled motor oil that stands up to racing's demanding standards and high-quality performance, Roush Fenway has decided to switch all its Sprint Cup and Nationwide teams to Valvoline NextGen motor oil technology for the duration of the 2012 NASCAR season. RFR will kick off the shift at the 54th annual Daytona 500 race on Feb. 26, 2012. The announcement represents the culmination of a rigorous validation process that began last summer with drivers like Greg Biffle and Carl Edwards, and is a continued illustration of Roush Fenway Racing's commitment to going green on the track while keeping performance paramount. NextGen motor oil is made of 50 percent recycled motor oil and delivers 100 percent Valvoline quality, offering optimum engine protection in a product that's also better for the environment. "Closing the Loop" - for professional drivers and everyday consumers alike - is a step towards reducing our dependence on foreign crude oil and preserving our existing resources by collecting and returning your used oil for recycling, and then refilling crankcases with NextGen. NextGen's debut in the Sprint Cup Series is a journey that started last summer when NextGen's racing formulation was put through extensive validation testing by Roush Yates Engines, earning approval from some of motorsports' top teams. Roush Fenway Racing, home of Carl Edwards, Greg Biffle and Matt Kenseth, started using NextGen recycled motor oil technology in competition to protect the engines of their stock cars. "RFR is committed to sustainable operations - from our solar energy system to our waste reduction efforts. We recycle 96% of every race car, so the ability to use a high quality recycled motor oil that can help us win on the track and help the environment is a no-brainer," said Roush. For committing to performance and the environment by returning used oil and refilling crankcases with NextGen, Advance Auto Parts will reward those who Close the Loop with a $20 mail-in gift card offer.(Valvoline)(2-26-2012)

Kenseth wins Gatorade Duel 2: #17-Matt Kenseth won the 2nd Gatorade Duel 150 Qualifying Race for the Daytona 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Daytona International Speedway followed by #78-Smith, #48-Johnson, #33-Sadler, #16-Biffle, #20-Logano, #18-Busch, #24-Gordon, #39-Newman and #5-Kahne. #36-Blaney (12th) and #87-Nemechek (22nd) got the two transfer spots and will race in the Daytona 500. #26-Raines fell back early and will use qualifying speed to make the race. #32-Terry Labonte will use the past champions provisional to make the Daytona 500. #09-KWallace had fuel pressure issues and finiished 21st, failing to make the race. The average speed was 194.175mph. There were 7 lead changes among 5 drivers and 0 cautions for 0 laps.
Go-or-Go Homers: making the Daytona 500 were #98-McDowell [transfer spot 6th Duel 1], #7-Gordon [transfer spot 9th Duel 1], #36-Blaney [transfer spot 12th Duel 2], #87-Nemechek [transfer spot 22nd Duel 2], #21-Bayne [qualifying speed], #26-Raines [qualifying speed],#30-Stremme [qualifying speed] and #32-Terry Labonte [past champions provisional].
DNQ's not making the Daytona 500 were #09-KWallace, #40-Waltrip, #37-MWallace, #97-Elliott, #23-Richardson Jr. and #49-Yeley.
See race results on the Gatorade Duel 150 Race 2 Results page (pdf) and see the Daytona 500 Starting Lineup page.(2-23-2012)

Zest to sponsor Kenseth: Roush Fenway Racing announced a new primary sponsorship for the 2003 Cup Series Champion, Matt Kenseth and his #17 Sprint Cup team. Zest brand of bar soap and body wash will serve as the primary sponsor for four races during the 2012 Sprint Cup Series season for Kenseth starting with Las Vegas in March (March 11). The remaining three races of the sponsorship are slated for Daytona (July 7), Kansas (October 21), and Martinsville (October 28). "NASCAR has some of the best fans when it comes to brand loyalty, so we're looking forward to welcoming Zest to our sport, and thrilled to have them as part of our Roush Fenway team," said Kenseth, driver of the #17 Zest Ford.
"Partnering with the No. 17 Ford of Matt Kenseth and the Roush Fenway team is a natural fit for Zest," said Jim Daniels, President and CEO of High Ridge Brands, the owners of Zest bar soap and body wash. "Matt and the Roush Fenway team are perennial winners with a loyal following who respect their ability to deliver high energy performances on the track and a first class, clean image off the track. We look forward to another successful year for Zest, Roush Fenway, and of course, Matt and his #17 Zest Ford." Go to Zest.com for money saving coupons and to see the latest "Zestfully Clean!" TV commercial.(Roush Fenway Racing), see an image of the scheme on the #17 Team Schemes page.(2-16-2012)

Ford Eco Boost to sponsor Stenhouse in Daytona 500: EcoBoost, the line of Ford production car engines that provides increased power and fuel efficiency while reducing emissions, is coming to NASCAR, but not under the hood. Ford is reaching out to its huge racing audience through a multi-tiered marketing campaign focused on EcoBoost beginning with this month's Daytona 500. EcoBoost, which first appeared on the NASCAR landscape as the paint scheme on the 2013 Fusion race car for its reveal in Charlotte, N.C., January 24, will serve as the primary paint scheme when defending NASCAR Nationwide Series champion Ricky Stenhouse Jr. makes his Daytona 500 debut in the #6 Roush Fenway Ford Fusion at the end of the month. EcoBoost will also be featured for select races on the #17 Fusion of former NASCAR Sprint Cup champion Matt Kenseth throughout the 2012 Sprint Cup campaign. EcoBoost will also appear on the Mustang race cars of Stenhouse Jr. and Roush Fenway Racing teammate Trevor Bayne for select races on the 2012 Nationwide Series schedule. "EcoBoost is one of the smart technologies from Ford that blends performance and fuel economy into one package. That's something all racers and racing fans can relate to," said Jamie Allison, director, Ford Racing. "EcoBoost engines are available now, and they will be widely available on most vehicles from Ford. We want to raise awareness of EcoBoost among NASCAR fans, so they will look for it, and ask about it when they shop for their new Fords." In addition to making appearances on the track, EcoBoost will be featured as the title sponsor for the NASCAR Nationwide Series EcoBoost 300 event March 17, 2012 at Bristol Motor Speedway.(Ford Racing NASCAR), see image of the scheme on the #6 Team Schemes page.(2-15-2012)

Kenseth's Cup Championship chosen as Top Roush Fenway "Winning" Moment: The NASCAR media named #17-Matt Kenseth's 2003 NASCAR Cup Championship as the top moment in Roush Fenway's "25 Winning Years." The 2003 Championship won the vote, much in the same fashion as Kenseth meticulously dominated the 2003 season, receiving almost 50 percent of the vote. As part of the launch of Roush Fenway's "25 Winning Years" program, media were asked to vote for the team's top moment at its stop last week on the annual NASCAR media tour at Charlotte Motor Speedway. On display at the event were over 50 trophies from Roush Fenway's 299 wins, including a trophy set as the centerpiece of each of the 25 tables at the venue. "We have had a lot of big moments over the past 24 years," said team co-owner Jack Roush, who founded the team in 1988. "Matt Kenseth winning our first Cup championship in 2003 ranks up there for sure. Roush Fenway is the last team to win the NASCAR Winston Cup championship under the old point system and a year later became the first team to win under the "Chase" system with Kurt Busch hoisting the inaugural Nextel Cup trophy in 2004. Busch's 2004 championship along with Kenseth's 2009 Daytona 500 win, Biffle's 2000 Truck Series Championship (Roush Fenway's first) and Mark Martin's 1989 win at Rockingham (the team's first) all received several votes in the poll.(Roush Fenway Racing)(2-8-2012)

2013 cars to be tested at Homestead: UPDATES: All four 2013 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series car models are scheduled to be tested at Homestead-Miami Speedway February 1st...in a test that will apparently be closed. That may be the first time crewmen get to see all four models. Why is NASCAR, and its big marketing operation, taking such seemingly a low-keyed approach? Apparently because the sanctioning body has not yet 'aero-matched' the four models in the wind tunnel. Ford is billing its new model as a Fusion (not Mustang, as once planned), and when the car maker officially unveiled its 2013 street version, it was then free to take the wraps off the NASCAR version - which is decidedly different from the current Sprint Cup model, the still controversial and not greatly liked by many car-of-tomorrow. Chevrolet, for example, still hasn't officially named its model for its 2013 NASCAR Cup racer.(MikeMulhern.net)(1-25-2012)
UPDATE: #5-Kasey Kahne tweeted that he will be participating in the test. No other drivers have been announced.(2-1-2012)
UPDATE 2: #18-Kyle Busch (Toyota), #17-Matt Kenseth (Ford), and Sam Hornish, Jr. (Dodge) are also participating.(PRN Garage Pass)(2-1-2012)

Roush Fenway to Commemorate "25 Winning Years" in 2012: Coming off one of the strongest seasons in its quarter-decade history, Roush Fenway Racing will commemorate 2012 by celebrating its 25th Anniversary of racing at NASCAR's highest levels. Roush Fenway kicked off its "25 Winning Years" program this week on Charlotte Motor Speedway's annual media tour, where they asked media to name what it considers the top moment of the organization's celebrated 24-year racing history. "We've had a number of critical milestones since we started in 1988," said team co-owner Jack Roush. "I looked around the room at the media tour at all the trophies we had on display and there is a great deal of emotion that comes to mind when I see each piece. Each trophy has a different story and represents a different milestone and sacrifice. From the first win with Mark Martin at Rockingham in 1989 to our 299th win last season with Trevor Bayne in Texas, they all mean something. Along the way we've won multiple championships in all three NASCAR Series, with Greg (Biffle) getting the first two and Matt Kenseth getting our first Cup championship in 2003." Since founding the company in 1988, Jack Roush has seen the organization amass a record 299 victories. Roush Fenway currently boasts 125 Sprint Cup wins and is the winningest team in both NASCAR's Nationwide and Truck Series'. To properly commemorate the season, Roush Fenway will celebrate four specific areas vital to the organization's success in 2012; performance, people, partners and innovation.(Roush Fenway Racing)(1-28-2012)

Roush plans to expand back to a four-car team: Team owner Jack Roush said despite the "economic pressures" that forced his organization to shrink from four to three Cup teams this season, he is looking to expand back to a quartet when possible. "The plan is to go back to that four-car stable ... yes," Roush said. "In the meantime, we've been able to reposition personnel and resources within the organization because of the downsizing that I think will make us very strong." Roush also confirmed that his team will run Ricky Stenhouse Jr. for the full Nationwide Series schedule this season and is still working on sponsorship to run Trevor Bayne for a complete campaign.(Motor Racing Network)(1-25-2012)

Kenseth loses bet with Dale Jr.: Matt Kenseth grew a beard during the offseason-and it cost him. At Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s 1970s-themed New Year's Eve party, Kenseth was sporting a Fu Manchu and mutton-chop sideburns. Earnhardt bet Kenseth he wouldn't keep the beard through this week's Preseason Thunder test sessions at Daytona. Through a series of subsequent text messages between the drivers, the ante grew to $2,500. "I was actually going to (keep the beard), and it looked really stupid, but I hate losing any money, and he kept upping the money and upping the money until finally I said, 'OK.' I checked first to make sure I didn't have any photos, and then I get a call saying that I had a photo shoot here and an interview there--and anyway I guess I lost. "Although technically this should count," Kenseth added, stroking the stubble on his chin. "It is three days old." That's not the way Earnhardt sees it. "He shaved his beard," Earnhardt said. "You guys can remind him. I told him to go to the bank, but maybe he forgot. "I want my $2,500."(NASCAR.com)(2-13-2012)

Best Buy scheme posted: found on Best Buy Racing's twitter, an image of the #17 Best Buy Ford scheme that is Matt Kenseth scheduled to run in nine 2012 Sprint Cup races, see this image and many other 2012 schemes on the #17 Team Schemes page.(1-7-2012)

Roush Yates teams up with Impact: Roush Yates Performance Products has reached a distribution agreement with Impact by MasterCraft Safety to create a 1,500 square foot safety center within Roush Yates Performance Products' Mooresville, N.C. retail center. This partnership will continue Roush Yates' goal of offering "one stop" shopping for drivers and pit crews throughout the racing spectrum. "We're very proud to be associated with a great company like Impact," said Roush Yates CEO Doug Yates. "This new partnership certainly broadens our reach and product offerings as a whole, which should further underscore the fact that Roush Yates Performance Products is truly a complete solution center for any racer of any caliber or series." The safety center will be staffed with personnel well versed in the intricacies of critical safety matters such as helmet fitment, custom race suit measurements, and choosing the proper restraints for specific genres of racing. "We couldn't be happier," said MasterCraft Safety president Robbie Pierce. "While our product lines are different, both Roush Yates and Impact offer premium racing products with absolutely no compromises."(Roush Yates Performance Products/Impact by MasterCraft)(12-27-2011)

Best Buy to sponsor Kenseth?: UPDATE: Roush Fenway Racing and #17-Matt Kenseth appear to be well on their way to securing the Best Buy sponsorship for 2012, according to sources familiar with the situation. The Roush organization has pledged to run Kenseth, the 2003 Cup champion, without sponsorship but has been working hard to find funding for the driver coming off a three-win season where he placed fourth in the Cup standings. Kenseth's primary sponsor Crown Royal opted not to sponsor a race team in 2012. Best Buy's sponsorship of #43-AJ Allmendinger at Richard Petty Motorsports was for 24 races in 2011. RPM has not announced any sponsorship for the #43 car for next season. An RPM spokesman said the team would have no comment on its sponsorship search.(SceneDaily)(12-15-2011)
UPDATE: Best Buy Co., Inc. announced a new sponsorship deal for the 2012 Sprint Cup Series Season. Best Buy will serve as primary sponsor of Carl Edwards' #99 Ford for two races and the Matt Kenseth #17 Ford for nine races. In addition, Best Buy will serve as associate sponsor for each. "Best Buy is thrilled to announce this new NASCAR sponsorship deal with Roush Fenway Racing," said Drew Panayiotou, senior vice president of marketing for Best Buy. "Roush Fenway Racing is a great fit for Best Buy Racing. NASCAR continues to be a relevant way for us to connect with our customers. Our goal is to reach our target audiences in a meaningful way, while maximizing the value of our marketing and sponsorship investments." Best Buy has been a NASCAR sponsor for the past 7 years.(Best Buy)(12-20-2011)
AND: Richard Petty Motorsports statement: "We have had a successful and rewarding relationship with Best Buy for the past few years and appreciate all they have done for us," stated Richard Petty, co-owner of Richard Petty Motorsports. "Although it is very disappointing that Best Buy is changing directions at this late date, we wish all of our friends there the best in their future endeavors. Our plan has always been to run a two-car team in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series in 2012 and we are continuing down that path," said Petty. "We have several partners that remain committed to the #43 team. We will move forward and explore all of our options in regard to the #43 program in the coming weeks."(RPM)(12-20-2011)

Kenseth expects team to find sponsorship: Even in a tough economy, the fact that Matt Kenseth is riding into the off-season with a blank quarter-panel is a mystery. With Crown Royal's last sponsorship dollars having been poured from the glass, Kenseth's #17 Roush Fenway Racing team is looking toward 2012 from a rather lonely position. The team does not have a major sponsor for next season, and time is rapidly running out. Kenseth said he remains hopeful that his Fords will carry major sponsorship when the team reports to Daytona International Speedway in February. "I think they'll find something," he said. "I think we have too competitive of a team to be unsponsored. From my standpoint, it's frustrating because I don't know how the whole process works. But, from a driver standpoint, if you perform well and don't act like an idiot too much, things are good.(SPEED)(12-7-2011)

Significant layoffs at Roush: Multiple sources have confirmed significant layoffs this week at Roush Fenway Racing. According to sources, more than 100 workers were released by the team Monday and [Tuesday]. One source put the number at 125. Prior to today, the team employed about 440 people. Roush Fenway is expected to reduce its NASCAR Sprint Cup car count from four cars to three next season, with the #6 driven by David Ragan likely to be shuttered. At last report, the team is also without sponsors for the #17 of Matt Kenseth. The team may also reduce the size of its NASCAR Nationwide Series operations from three cars to one or two.(SPEED)(1-22-2011)

NASCAR didn't see Kenseth-Vickers wreck as retaliation: NASCAR officials didn't see Sunday's incident at Phoenix International Raceway between Brian Vickers and Matt Kenseth as retaliation. Kenseth disagreed. "Had we felt it was more than a racing incident we would have reacted,'' Sprint Cup Series director John Darby said afterwards. Kenseth called NASCAR out for not responding to Vickers wrecking him the way the governing body responded to Kyle Busch deliberately running Ron Hornaday Jr. into the wall during the Truck Series race last week at Texas Motor Speedway. "Obviously, it is retaliation for retaliation, I guess,'' said Kenseth, whose championship hopes basically ended three weeks ago when he and Vickers got into several on track exchanges at Martinsville Speedway. "I was out of brakes and I was up on everybody and I saw him coming and I lifted at least 10 car lengths before where I normally would lift, and he drove in there at 165 miles per hour and cleaned us out.'' Kenseth reminded NASCAR that Vickers vowed payback after Martinsville. "If NASCAR is going to start parking people for being mad 25 seconds after you wreck and wrecking somebody, then you would park somebody for that,'' he said. "It was so premeditated. It just surprises me that [NASCAR] didn't do anything. I am disappointed, but I expected it.'' Vickers told reporters that he didn't intentionally run over Kenseth, and that he was surprised when Kenseth lifted. "If he wants to doubt us, that's fine," Vickers said. "He wrecked me at Martinsville, he got wrecked here, but it actually wasn't (payback). I'm not saying I wasn't going to pay him back, but I'm just saying that wasn't it."(ESPN)(11-14-2011)

Kenseth to visit AFB: #17-Matt Kenseth will head to Luke Air Force Base on Thursday, November 10 to host a special care package-stuffing event leading up to Veteran's Day. The event will officially launch The Crown Royal Heroes Project-an on-going commitment from the whisky brand to recognize, honor and give back to America's finest-and will be the first in a series of celebrations to recognize local everyday heroes, as well as give back to their communities (RFR)(11-9-2011)

Roush Fenway expects to have 3 teams in 2012: Roush Fenway Racing expects to shrink from four full-time Sprint Cup cars to three in 2012. "The most likely scenario is three,'' RFR president Steve Newmark said before Sunday's race at Martinsville Speedway. "We're still plugging away at the fourth, but we all recognize the realities that when you're this late in the season it makes it more difficult to secure that. Only the #99 car of Carl Edwards and #16 of Greg Biffle is fully sponsored for next season. The #17 of 2003 Cup champion Matt Kenseth has no sponsorship for 2012, and Newmark said "nothing is eminent'' but added RFR is prepared to run that car unsponsored if necessary. Newmark said the #6 car driven by David Ragan could run limited races but was non-committal on whether Ragan, Nationwide Series points leader Ricky Stenhouse Jr. or Trevor Bayne -- or a combination of two or three -- would get those races. He said the plan is for Bayne, the defending Daytona 500 champion, to run a limited Cup schedule in the #21 for the Wood Brothers. Newmark said RFR hopes to field two Nationwide Series cars, with at least one of them fully sponsored. No decision has been made on who would fill those seats, although Stenhouse has been promised a ride for RFR next season.(ESPN)(10-31-2011)

Tattoos For A Cause: Knowing that tattoos are one of the most iconic symbols of badass NASCAR fans, #17-Matt Kenseth and his Talladega sponsor Jeremiah Weed flavored malt beverages, will provide free Jeremiah Weed and Matt Kenseth-inspired tattoos to adult race fans on the Saturday of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race weekend at Talladega Superspeedway. A series of tattoos will be available for fans to choose from including Matt's signature, a number 17, Jeremiah Weed logos and a Jeremiah Weed Lightning Lemonade flavored malt beverage can. For every tattoo inked, Jeremiah Weed will make a $100 donation to The Air Force Village, a charity committed to providing a safe, secure and dignified place for indigent surviving spouses of retired Air Force personnel.(RFR)(10-21-2011)

#17 crew voted 3rd Qtr Mechanix Wear Most Valuable Pit Crew: The pit crew of the #17 Crown Royal Ford of Matt Kenseth and Roush Fenway Racing has earned third-quarter honors in the 2011 Mechanix Wear Most Valuable Pit Crew Award competition, taking home the $5,000 quarterly prize - a reward certainly worth a toast or two. The Mechanix Wear Most Valuable Pit Crew Award, which is determined by a vote of each team's crew chief, is given quarterly to the top-performing pit crew in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. The four quarterly winners are eligible for the year-end Mechanix Wear Most Valuable Pit Crew Award presented during Champion's Week in Las Vegas - and the $100,000 grand prize. This year celebrates the 10th annual Mechanix Wear Most Valuable Pit Crew Championship - the only authentic competition voted on by crew chiefs - as well as the safety innovator's 20th year in the sport. Mechanix Wear, the #1 glove in racing, is the Official Glove of NASCAR used by nearly all pit crew members in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.
"These guys were essential to us making the Chase for the Championship," said Kenseth. "They've kept us in the hunt every week so far, and we're looking forward to more fast, solid pit stops in the next five weeks. The #17 Crown Royal team has done a great job week in and week out on pit road and it's great to see them get credit for their hard work."
So far, Kenseth and the #17 team have two wins, nine top-fives and 17 top-10s. As Kenseth continues to perform well on the track, Jimmy Fennig, crew chief on the #17 Ford, continues to maintain that same level of performance by keeping the pit crew at the top of its game. "When you get into the Chase, the pressure on the pit crew gets intense," said Fennig. "Every stop can contribute to winning or losing the championship. These guys have worked so hard all year, and continue to perform at an incredible level throughout the Chase."
Members of the #17 pit crew include:
Jack man -- Cameron Cobb; Front tire changer -- Justin Nottestad; Front tire carrier -- Joe Crossen; Gas man -- Shawn Ward; Rear tire carrier -- Ryan McCray; Rear tire changer -- Jon Moore. "A quick grip and a strong hand are crucial to any pit stop in any of the NASCAR racing series," said Ted Abdon, Director of Racing for Mechanix Wear. "The right kind of glove not only aids with this but works as a tool to keep the pit crews safer and more efficient. We continue to strive to produce the best product available to ensure they can continue to be the best."(Mechanix Wear)(10-20-2011)

Roush Yates Engines and Freescale Semiconductor partner on technology: Roush Yates Engines and Freescale Semiconductor announced a new partnership grounded in a shared vision for the expanding role of technology in motorsports. This partnership brings together two industry leaders in automotive and motorsports. Freescale, as one of the world's largest providers of automotive electronics, provides the processing power behind NASCAR's 2012 Sprint Cup Series switch to fuel injection and is the Official Automotive Semiconductor of NASCAR. Roush Yates is recognized as one of the premier engine manufacturers, and both of these companies have a long history in automotive and motorsports innovation. Together, Roush Yates and Freescale look to discover new ways in which technology can be used to improve the team, driver and fan experience within NASCAR and other racing series.(Roush Yates)(10-18-2011)

Kenseth wins at Charlotte: #17-Matt Kenseth won the Bank of America 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Charlotte Motor Speedway for his 21st career win and 3rd of the season. #18-Busch finished 2nd followed by #99-Edwards, #4-Kahne, #9-Ambrose, #29-Harvick, #43-Allmendinger, #14-Stewart (the pole sitter), #11-Hamlin, and #39-Newman. While running in the top 10, #48-Johnson got loose and wrecked with 17 laps to go. He finished 34th.
#99-Edwards now leads the Chase by 5 points over #29-Harvick.
There were 16 lead changes among 10 drivers and 8 cautions for 34 yellow flag laps. The attendance is listed as 105,000, up from 103,000 last year.
Scheduled Race Re-Airs:
ESPN2, Sunday, October 16 at 2:00am/et; SPEED, Wednesday, October 19 at 12:00pm/et
See race results, awards, laps led and more on Jayski's Charlotte Race Results/Awards page.
See drivers championship points standings on Jayski's Drivers Points Standings page
For the owner points standings, see my Owners Points Standings page.(10-15-2011)

Fluidmaster to sponsor Kenseth at Charlotte: Roush Fenway Racing announced a new primary sponsorship for Matt Kenseth, and his #17 team on behalf of Fluidmaster for this weekend's Bank of America 500 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. The sponsorship is the first of its kind for Fluidmaster and is a true testament to the appeal of sponsorship in NASCAR serving as a way to connect companies with customers. After researching the opportunity to participate in this weekend's Sprint Cup Series race, Fluidmaster recognized the strong appeal of motorsports racing among its key professional plumbing customers as well as do-it-yourselfers worldwide.(Roush Fenway), see an image of the car on my #17 team paint schemes page.(10-11-2011)

Could Roush drop to three teams in 2012? UPDATE: this week Jack Roush addressed the topic of Rosuh Fenway Racing dropping from a four-car to a three-car team in a SiriusXM Satellite Radio interview. "We're looking for a sponsor for #6-David (Ragan), but right now I can't tell you who that's gonna be," Roush told host Claire B. Lang. "I'll say that I'm not real close on it. So David has not been encouraged to not talk to other teams going forward for things that they might have or an interest because right now I don't see how I'm gonna run the fourth car unless things turn dramatically." #16-Greg Biffle, #99-Carl Edwards and #17-Matt Kenseth are RFR's other Cup drivers. Roush said he expected to remain active in the Nationwide Series but more likely with two cars than three. He has self-funded in large part the programs of Trevor Bayne (who won the Daytona 500) and Ricky Stenhouse Jr. (who is on pace to win the Nationwide title), and even Edwards hasn't had full backing.(Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)(10-7-2011)
UPDATE: Roush concedes that, while he is still looking for a sponsor to keep Ragan in his current ride, there are still no great prospects. And Roush says he's told Ragan to start looking for a new deal, because without major sponsorship Roush says he won't be able to run four full-time Cup teams in 2012. Speculation is that Ragan could be penciled in for a ride with Kevin Buckler [#71 TRG Ford], the sports car racer turned NASCAR team owner, and a Ford man. But Ragan himself says he's focused more on finishing this season as strongly as he can. "Right now I am not focused on 2012 just yet," Ragan says. "I think it's important for us to finish this season strong. And the stronger we can finish 2011, that will only help our chances of finding a sponsor and a package to go racing next year. Everyone at Roush Fenway is working hard at selling sponsors for us and for Matt. They have to sell some sponsorships for us to go racing next year. Jack has always done a good job of selling our race cars. Even though it's come to the last minute, we have confidence we'll be out on the track racing (next season). And hopefully we can find a partner we can announce, sooner rather than later.(MikeMulhern.net)(10-8-2011)

Katie Kenseth in wreck practicing for Better Half Dash: The wife of NASCAR driver Matt Kenseth left Charlotte Motor Speedway by stretcher early Monday evening after a crash at the race track during a practice session for a charity race next month. Katie Kenseth crashed in to what typically is the pit stop wall in a driving school bandolero vehicle after taking a sharp turn. Her husband rushed to check on her, and emergency track officials loaded her onto a stretcher. Other NASCAR drivers such as Joey Logano, Casey Mears, Michael McDowell and David Ragan were also in attendance to watch their wives and girlfriends practice for the inaugural Better Half Dash on October 15. The charity race will benefit Speedway Children's Charities and Motor Racing Outreach and will feature a 25-lap race on the front stretch quarter-mile oval before the Bank of American 500.(WCNC)
AND: Monday night, Kenseth tweeted, "That didn't turn out so well. Katie and I are home, she has a broken scapula and some bumps and bruises. Thanks for all the well wishes."(9-27-2011)

Kenseth Says Still No Word on 2012 Sponsorship: The Chase is not all on Matt Kenseth's mind. A couple of months ago, primary sponsor Crown Royal announced its departure from the team after the season and, so far, there is still no word on which company or companies will adorn the hood and quarter panels of the #17 Ford. "I am sure they are working on it as hard as possible back in the sales and marketing department at Roush Fenway Racing," Kenseth told News/Talk WSB. "That's really the only thing I know. I don't know of anything that right now they have and I don't know of anything they are close to getting signed up. I wish I did. I am going to worry about racing these next 10 weeks, doing the best job I can to win a championship for Crown Royal and I'll let them worry about it."(WSB Radio)(9-15-2011)

Ollie's to sponsor Kenseth at Richmond: Roush Fenway Racing announced a new primary sponsor for the driver of the #17 Ford, Matt Kenseth. Ollie's Bargain Outlet will serve as the sponsor of Kenseth's Ford Fusion for the Wonderful Pistachios 400 at Richmond International Raceway on Saturday, Sept. 10. The sponsorship marks the second time that Ollie's will serve as a sponsor in NASCAR's Sprint Cup Series, and the first time that the company has partnered with Roush Fenway Racing. "I'm happy to welcome Ollie's Bargain Outlet to the Roush Fenway team and I look forward to a great race weekend with them at Richmond," said Kenseth, driver of the #17 Ollie's Bargain Outlet Ford. "We always enjoy welcoming new sponsors to our organization and I'm happy to have them aboard our No. 17 Ford."
"Since the moment we were presented with the opportunity to sponsor Matt Kenseth for the race at Richmond, we have been looking forward to watching him race in our signature Ollie's colors in the Sprint Cup Series," said Mark Butler, President and CEO of Ollie's Bargain Outlet. "Partnering with Roush Fenway Racing to sponsor the #17 Ford gives us a great chance to showcase our company to NASCAR's fans at the highest level in the Cup series. I am personally a big NASCAR fan and am proud to partner with Roush Fenway Racing to support Kenseth and the great sport of racing." Founded in 1982, Ollie's Bargain Outlet is one of America's largest retailers of closeouts, salvage and surplus merchandise (RFR), see an image of the scheme on the #17 Team Schemes page.(9-7-2011)

Jack Roush ready to resume flying: It was a year ago when Sprint Cup car owner Jack Roush arrived at MIS with facial injuries, making his return to the series after he had crash-landed his plane in Oshkosh, Wis., the previous month. Roush, 69, enjoys flying his planes as much as he loves motor sports, and that is why he's so excited to return to piloting this week at Willow Run Airport for the first time since the crash. "I'm totally recovered," said Roush, of Livonia, wearing his trademark Panama-style hat while signing autographs. "I just got my medical back from the FAA, indicating that I'm medically sound and I'm without restriction. I have one more validation flight for the (injured) eye and I have that Tuesday. Once I get that done I can fly anything I did before. I plan to fly Tuesday." Roush suffered a ruptured left eyeball, broken jaw, damaged left cheekbone and had a compression fracture in his back from the crash. He said at the time "that everything will come back except the sight in my left eye."(Detroit News)(8-22-2011)

Kroger Sponsors Kenseth at Michigan: Kroger announced their sponsorship of Roush Fenway Racing's Matt Kenseth and his #17 Ford in the Pure Michigan 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series event this weekend at Michigan International Speedway. "We are excited to be a part of Michigan racing and to support the Michigan auto industry, in general," said Dale Hollandsworth, Customer Communications Manager, The Kroger Co. of Michigan. "Just as automobiles are a tradition in Michigan, Kroger supporting its customers and local organizations is a Michigan tradition, too." Whether it is Fuel Rewards or Kroger Community Rewards, Kroger will support its communities and customers. Kroger helps Michigan drivers save money through its fuel reward program by providing discounts on fill-ups. Kroger offers customers one point for every dollar they spend when they present their Kroger Plus card at any store within Michigan. Customers have the convenience of redeeming these points for fuel discounts up to $1 per gallon at any Kroger fuel center and up to 10 cents per gallon at participating Shell stations. Kroger has long sponsored various organizations in the communities it serves with programs such as Kroger Community Rewards, which contributes $2 million to participating organizations throughout Michigan each year. Kroger Community Rewards is open to groups that are tax exempt under 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code, with organizations earning cash rewards every time their members purchase food and other products at Kroger.(Roush Fenway Racing)(8-16-2011)

Kenseth suprised Crown Royal is leaving: from a Ford Racing press conference transcript, #17-Matt Kenseth is asked about sponsor Crown Royal leaving his team after 2011:
Q) DID THE DECISION BY CROWN ROYAL CATCH YOU BY SURPRISE AND HOW DOES THAT AFFECT YOUR FUTURE?
Kenseth: "I guess it caught me a little bit by surprise because we've been having a great season on-track and I figured they would be cutting back like most people are somewhat, but it caught me a little bit by surprise that they're totally leaving everything, except for that Richmond race. What that does to us, I'm not really sure. I drive the car and I kind of leave that to the marketing people and the sales team to figure that out. I feel like it's a great opportunity for a company to come into the sport. I think right now the on-track performance of the organization has been really good. It seems like everything is on the upswing in the sport as far as the on-track product and the TV ratings, and attendance is coming up a little bit, so I feel like it's a great opportunity. I've been there for a long time at Roush Fenway Racing. I think I've been there about 14 years doing miscellaneous things here or there. We had our sponsor before Crown Royal, we had DeWalt for over a decade, so I think it's a good, stable, competitive program and hopefully they can get something wrapped up there for the future."
Q) DOES SOMETHING LIKE THIS SPONSOR SITUATION IMPACT THE TEAM? DO YOUR GUYS WORRY ABOUT WHAT'S GOING TO HAPPEN?
Kenseth: "No, I don't think so, especially not now. If we were in the middle of a season where the car hasn't had a sponsor for half-a-season or something like that and you saw big cutbacks throughout the organization and stuff like that, then maybe you would be worried, but, right now, I think it's really early for that. We've been doing everything we can to make the program really competitive and I feel like all the Roush cars have been real competitive and I think we have a lot there to sell, so I don't think that's any concern to the team guys or takes any focus off anything that we're doing. Our goal every week is to go out and try to win races and try to race for a championship and that certainly hasn't changed. I've been fortunate. I haven't been through a lot of that through my Cup career. Like I said, DeWalt was there for over a decade and they've had different associates here or there, but that was it, and then Crown Royal had been there for a couple of years. They've been a great partner, not just to us but to NASCAR as well, doing the [International Race Of Champions] Series and then moving into the Cup Series when they started allowing spirits on the side of the cars. They've been a great partner for us and NASCAR and we sure appreciate all of that. They were on our car in '03 and '04 with the Smirnoff Ice brand before moving up to do a Cup car through Kurt and Jamie and then myself, so we sure appreciate all of that."(Ford Racing)(7-3-2011)

Crown Royal to end sponsorship of the #17 team UPDATE: Official Statement from Crown Royal: In evaluation of our NASCAR programming and after much consideration, we have made the decision to make a strategic shift to focus our resources against our annual Crown Royal "Your Name Here" program which awards race naming rights to an adult fan. The Your Name Here program has provided NASCAR fans with an experience that is unrivaled in sports and in recent years has shed light on some of the remarkable military servicemen and servicewomen who proudly serve our country. We look forward to elevating this program as well as continuing our presence in the sport through an experience that our fans have grown to love. The specific details regarding how we will honor these heroes at next year's entitlement will be announced at a later date.
In shifting our strategy, we will end our sponsorships with Roush Fenway Racing and NASCAR upon the conclusion of the 2011 season. We have developed strong relationships with the people at both organizations - they have not only been fantastic business partners, but have also become our friends. We thank them for working with us throughout the years to showcase the importance of our social responsibility initiatives. We look forward to a strong finish to the 2011 season and like the many fans we've gained along the way, we'll never stop rooting for the #17 car on its way to Victory Lane.(Crown Royal PR)(6-28-2011)
UPDATE: Statement from Roush Fenway Racing on Crown Royal: Roush Fenway Racing has been informed that Crown Royal will not return as the primary sponsor of Matt Kenseth and the #17 NASCAR Sprint Cup team for the 2012 season.
"We are obviously disappointed with the news, but first we would like to thank Diageo and Crown Royal for a terrific partnership that has spanned almost a decade," said Roush Fenway president Steve Newmark. "They have been a first-class partner all the way around. We look forward to finishing out the season with them on the No. 17 as Matt and the Crown Royal team continue to contend for another championship. It's unfortunate that they will not be able to continue to be a part of our organization. Fortunately, our race programs are operating at a higher level than ever. The #17 is an attractive, championship-winning program with a storied history and Matt Kenseth an elite driver. We have already opened the door for discussions and are currently in the process of speaking with companies interested in taking over the program for next season and beyond."(Roush Fenway Racing)(6-29-2011)

Affliction Clothing expands sponsorship with Kenseth: Affliction Clothing, who debuted as a primary sponsor for 2003 Cup Series Champion Matt Kenseth and his #17 Roush Fenway Racing team earlier this season, added two more races of primary sponsorship to the 2011 Sprint Cup Series schedule. Affliction will serve as the sponsor for Kenseth and the #17 team for the Sprint Cup Series race weekends in July at Daytona International Speedway as well as the July 17th race at New Hampshire Motor Speedway. "It's always great to bring a new sponsor to our team, but it's even more thrilling to have them add more races to their sponsorship," said Kenseth, driver of the #17 Affliction Clothing Live Fast Ford. "We're proud to have Affliction Clothing as part of our Roush Fenway organization and are looking forward to another pair of great races representing their brand."
"We enjoyed Matt and the Roush Fenway team's performance at both of our sponsored races and are looking forward to watching Matt race the No.17 Affliction Ford at Daytona" said Tom Atencio, Vice President of Entertainment and Sports Marketing for Affliction Clothing. The Affliction family of brands exists at the intersection between the spirited artistry and hard edged attitude of the fast-living modern generation.(Roush Fenway Racing)(6-28-2011)

Roush supportive of Childress: Jack Roush drew a few laughs after his team's NASCAR Nationwide victory, when he was asked his view of the fine handed down to fellow owner Richard Childress. Childress was fined $150,000 earlier this month for an altercation with Kyle Busch at Kansas Speedway. Childress was upset that Busch bumped into Joey Coulter on the cool-down lap after a race. "It was pretty high," Roush said about the fine. "I guess that pretty much puts the nail in the coffin of, 'Have at it, guys.' Maybe that was a boy and a man. I am not sure. Maybe that is different than the boys having at it. Kyle has been pretty rough on my cars over a period of time and for Richard to stand up for himself was OK," Roush said.(Associated Press)(6-19-2011)

IEG will measure ROO for new Roush sponsors: Roush Fenway Racing [#'s 6,16,17,99] has hired IEG's sponsorship measurement division to provide independent, third-party return-on-objective analysis to new sponsors. The race team and sponsorship analysis company are labeling the new service RoushFenwayOnTrack. IEG has never partnered with a team or property to do similar research in the past. Roush executives hope the service enables sponsors to better evaluate the value of their sponsorships with the race team. Roush will pay for the service from IEG and include it in its sponsorship packages alongside assets such as driver appearances, production days and show car programs. Sponsors will be able to hold independent meetings with IEG to define their objectives and develop measurement tools to track their sponsorship's performance. IEG will share the results with the partner. Four of Roush's major NASCAR Sprint Cup partners were up for renewal this season. 3M [#16 ]is the only one to renew to date, and IEG measurement services weren't included in the deal. The team remains in negotiations with Diageo's Crown Royal [#17], Aflac [#99] and UPS [#6].(Sports Business Journal)(6-13-2011)

Affliction Clothing sponsoring Kenseth in 2 races: Roush Fenway Racing announces a new primary sponsorship for 2003 Cup Series Champion, Matt Kenseth and his #17 team from Affliction Clothing. Affliction Clothing will serve as the primary sponsor for Kenseth's team for the Sprint Cup Series race weekends in June at Kansas Speedway for the STP 400 as well as the Pocono 500 at Pocono Raceway. The Affliction family of brands exists at the intersection between the spirited artistry and hard edged attitude of the fast-living modern generation. Affliction defines and meets the needs of their style savvy customer with an ever-expanding collection of contemporary fashion focused on an innovative combination of style, fit, fabrics, finishes and quality. A true culture phenomenon and a commercial powerhouse; Affliction brands are rooted in and beloved by the hard rock and sports communities.(Roush Fenway Racing)(5-31-2011)

Different colors for Kenseth at Charlotte...plus: This weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Matt Kenseth will pilot the #17 Jeremiah Weed Southern Style Ford Fusion in the Coca Cola 600. Also, on Friday, May 27th in Uptown Charlotte, Strongman Rendy DeLaCruz, star of the commercials for the new Jeremiah Weed Premium Malt Beverages, will attempt to pull Kenseth in his #17 Jeremiah Weed Ford 100 feet in 60 seconds or less. For every foot DeLaCruz successfully pulls the 3,500 lb stock car at Speed Street, Jeremiah Weed will distribute $10 pre-paid taxi vouchers to encourage responsible decision making among legal drinking age consumers. The Strongman will also act as honorary pit crew member of the #17 Jeremiah Weed team throughout race weekend.(RFR)(5-26-2011), see images of the car on the #17 Team Schemes page.(5-26-2011)

Kenseth wins at Dover: #17-Matt Kesneth won the FedEx 400 benefiting Autism Speaks Sprint Cup Series race at Dover International Speedway for his 2nd win of 2011, 2nd win at Dover and 20th win of his 411 race career.
#5-Martin finished second followed by #9-Ambrose, #18-Busch [who started at the rear], #83-Vickers, #33-Bowyer, #99-Edwards, #56-Truex Jr., #48-Johnson and #29-Harvick. #43-Allmendinger, who started 2nd, lost an engine and finished 37th.
There were 23 lead changes among 11 drivers; 6 cautions for 28 yellow flag laps. The attendance is listed as 82,000 down from 88,000 last year [133,000 seats].
Scheduled Race Re-Air: SPEED, Wednesday, May 18 at 12:00pm/et
See race results, awards, laps led and more on Jayski's Dover Race Results/Awards page.
See drivers championship points standings on Jayski's Drivers Points Standings page.
For the owner points standings, see my Owners Points Standings page.(5-15-2011)

Roush Fenway to Host Annual Spring Fan Day Event: Matt Kenseth, Carl Edwards, Greg Biffle, David Ragan, Trevor Bayne, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. & Jack Roush are scheduled to sign autographs as part of Roush Fenway Racing's 2011 Fan Day event on Thursday, May 26, 2011 at its corporate headquarters in Concord, North Carolina. Fans are invited to participate in an array of activities that kick off with autograph sessions by all seven Roush Fenway drivers and legendary team owner Jack Roush. In addition, Sirius NASCAR Radio will broadcast live on site and Roush Fenway will host its second annual fan tweet up at the event, featuring RickyvsTrevor.com. Autograph sessions are as follows:
11:30am -- Trevor Bayne, Carl Edwards, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Jack Roush
12:30pm -- Matt Kenseth, Greg Biffle and David Ragan
Tickets for both autograph sessions are limited and will be distributed on a first come, first serve basis beginning at 8:00am/et on the day of the event. In addition to the above activities, fans will be able to tour the Roush Fenway museum, shop in the store and peruse a variety of displays from Aflac, Scotts, Kellogg's, Avon and Blackwell Angus. There will also be live music performed by Luke Kauffman, as well as food and drink vendors so fans are encouraged to make a day of the festivities. Roush Fenway Racing address is; 4600 Roush Place, Concord, NC. For more information, visit the Roush Fenway Racing website.(5-14-2011)

Wiley X sponsoring Kenseth: Wiley X Eyewear's successful NASCAR sponsorship program has switched into high gear with announcement of the #17 Wiley X Sunglasses Ford. This car will be driven by Matt Kenseth and will make its nationwide debut Saturday, May 7th in the Showtime Southern 500 at South Carolina's historic Darlington Raceway. Kenseth will also drive this special paint scheme on Sunday, May 17th as he tries to win the Fed Ex 400 benefitting Autism Speaks at Dover International Speedway in Delaware. Large Wiley X Eyewear logos will be featured prominently on the Ford Fusion race car, perfectly complimenting the vehicle's black/red/white color scheme. The words "Wiley X Sunglass Machine" are emblazoned in large letters across the rear of the car - a view Kenseth hopes to show competitors as he fights for the checkered flag at these two events.(Roush Fenway)(5-4-2011)

Kenseth wins at Texas: #17-Matt Kenseth won the Samsung Mobile 500 Sprint Cup Series race at Texas Motor Speedway for his 1st win of 2011, his first win since Auto Club in February 2009, and the 19th of his career.
#33-Bowyer finished second followed by #99-Edwards, #16-Biffle, #27-Menard, #9-Ambrose, #6-Ragan [pole sitter], #48-Johnson, #88-Dale Earnhardt, Jr., and #22-Busch.
There were 31 lead changes among 13 drivers; 5 cautions for 24 yellow flag laps.
The attendance is listed as 168,400, up from last years 92,200 during the spring when the race was held Sunday afternoon.
Scheduled Race Re-Air: SPEED, Wednesday, April 13 at 12:00pm/et
See race results, awards, laps led and more on Jayski's Texas Race Results/Awards page.
See drivers championship points standings on Jayski's Drivers Points Standings page
For the owner points standings, see my Owners Points Standings page. (4-9-2011)

Marine to Serve as Honorary Pit Crew Member for Kenseth: As race fans gear up for the first and only NASCAR race in Fontana this season at Auto Club Speedway, the drivers aren't the only famous faces to keep an eye on. Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Matthew Hansen will get his first shot at NASCAR fame as he serves as an honorary pit crew member of the # 17 Crown Royal Ford driven by Matt Kenseth. Crown Royal and Kenseth will roll out the purple carpet for the local California Marine who was recently awarded naming rights to the Sprint Cup Series race in Richmond, Va. The April 30th race will be named Crown Royal Presents the Matthew & Daniel Hansen 400 in honor of Matthew and his fallen twin brother Daniel - also a Marine. Daniel was killed while serving in Afghanistan on Feb. 14, 2009. The brothers enlisted within weeks of each other and despite losing his brother in service; Matthew continues to proudly serve our country. Since Matthew was unable to attend the unveiling ceremony in Daytona, he will experience royal treatment for his first-ever NASCAR experience at his hometown race.(Roush Fenway)(3-25-2011)

Part owner of Roush Fenway changes name: The parent company that owned the Boston Red Sox, Liverpool FC and half of Roush Fenway Racing has changed its name to Fenway Sports Group. The umbrella group owned primarily by John W. Henry and Tom Werner was formerly known as New England Sports Ventures. Company officials said it was assuming a new corporate name to better reflect its reach into NASCAR and English Premier League soccer. Fenway Sports Group had been the name of NESV's marketing arm. It will now go by Fenway Sports Management.(Associated Press)(3-23-2011)

Valvoline renews oil partnership with Roush Fenway: Roush Fenway Racing and Valvoline, two organizations with long histories of excellence in automotive performance, announced an extension of their NASCAR partnership. Valvoline, the leading innovator and supplier of quality, high-performing automotive products, will continue to be the exclusive motor oil provider for Roush Fenway Racing and all of its NASCAR entries. Valvoline and Roush Fenway Racing are used to finding victory lane in NASCAR competition. In 14 seasons as the team's official motor oil, Valvoline has played an integral role in 46 Roush Fenway Sprint Cup Series victories. In 2011, the relationship continues into its 15th season.(Roush Fenway)(3-3-2011)

Raybestos signs on with Roush Fenway Racing: Roush Fenway Racing announced a multi-year marketing partnership with Raybestos that will see its four NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams run Raybestos brake packages, beginning with short track and road course events in 2011. While Raybestos has provided Roush Fenway with brakes for many of its 291 NASCAR wins and five NASCAR championships, 2011 marks the beginning of a larger technical and marketing partnership. "We had a very successful test with the Raybestos brakes last year, and the feedback from all of our drivers was very positive," said team owner Jack Roush. "This is the first time as an organization that we've designated a single supplier to meet all of our needs - and I think that speaks volumes about the quality products that Raybestos is producing." Roush Fenway will run Raybestos Sprint Cup short track and road course brake packages, including Raybestos legendary high-friction racing brake pads. The ultra-lightweight aluminum alloy Raybestos six-piston calipers are the stiffest and lightest calipers available in NASCAR.(RFR)(3-2-2011)

Forbes names most valuable NASCAR teams & highest paid drivers: The weak economy has pummeled NASCAR over the past three years, with sponsorships, merchandise sales, race winnings and subsidies from automakers falling. Fans have tuned out, sending TV ratings down 24% since 2006 and leaving more than 40,000 empty seats at some races last year. One of its longest-tenured teams, Richard Petty Motorsports, was scrambling for cash on a week-to-week basis so it could race on weekends last fall. Is NASCAR headed for a full-blown meltdown? Hardly. Yes, the value of the top 10 teams slid 5% in 2010, on average, to $136 million by [Forbes] count, as prize money dropped and sponsors dialed back their commitment, but a rebound in 2011 for the sport is a strong possibility. NASCAR's strongest and most valuable team remains Hendrick Motorsports. With a valuation of $350 million on revenues of $177 million in 2010, Hendrick is worth 56% more than the next-highest-grossing team, Roush Fenway Racing, which [Forbes] value at $224 million on revenues of $140 million last year. Hendrick earned a NASCAR-high $18 million in operating income (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) in 2010. Richard Childress Racing was third on the list, followed by Joe Gibbs Racing and Penske Racing. Rounding out the top 10: Stewart-Haas, Michael Waltrip Racing, Earnhardt-Ganassi Racing, Richard Petty Motorsports, and Red Bull Racing.
AND: Despite his lack of success in recent years on the track, Dale Earnhardt Jr. remains NASCAR's highest-paid driver, earning $29 million in 2010 thanks to merchandise sales that are the best in the sport and reportedly account for one-third of all NASCAR licensed merchandise sales. Other income streams include an annual salary from Hendrick and a 50% share of his $4.9 million in winnings and bonuses in 2010 from Sprint Cup races. Earnhardt also has a bevy of personal endorsements, including Chevrolet, Nationwide and Wrangler. Hendrick teammate Jeff Gordon follows Earnhardt in the NASCAR money standings with earnings of $25 million last year. It is a clean sweep for Hendrick at the top with five-time Sprint Cup champion Jimmie Johnson, the third-highest-paid driver at $24 million. The rest of the top 10: Tony Stewart, Kevin Harvick, Carl Edwards, Kyle Busch, Kasey Kahne, Denny Hamlin, and Matt Kenseth.(Forbes)(2-24-2011)

Congrats to Matt & Katie Kenseth: Matt Kenseth, driver of the #17 Crown Royal Ford with Roush Fenway Racing, and his wife Katie welcomed a new bundle of joy into their family early Tuesday morning with the birth of the couple's second daughter. Grace Katherine Kenseth was born February 22 at 3:49 a.m. EST weighing in at seven pounds and eight ounces. Both mother and daughter are doing well as the family welcomes Grace into the family to join their other daughter Kaylin and son Ross. Kenseth will be able to spend a few days with his brand new baby girl before traveling out west for this weekend's Subway Fresh Fit 500 at Phoenix International Raceway. (Roush Fenway)(2-22-2011)

'Herman' to stand-by for Kenseth UPDATE: Kenny Wallace told Sirius NASCAR Radio's Sirius Speedway with Dave Moody that he will be standing by to take over Matt Kenseth's #17 Crown Royal Ford, if Kenseth is called away during SpeedWeek 2011. "I got a call last night from (Roush Fenway Racing GM) Robbie Reiser, and he said Katie Kenseth is due to give birth to their second baby in a couple of weeks," said Wallace. "They want me to be on standby in case she goes into labor before the Bud Shootout or Gatorade Duel. He said Matt will run the Daytona 500 no matter what, but they want me there in case they need me earlier in the week. Even though it's probably because I'm the same size as Matt and will fit into the seat easily, it took me about a quarter of a second to agree."(Sirius Speedway)(2-2-2011)
UPDATE: With the 2011 Sprint Cup Series season set to return to action at Daytona International Speedway next week, Roush Fenway Racing's Matt Kenseth and his wife Katie are expecting great things for the month of February with the addition of a new baby. The Kenseths expect to welcome the latest addition to the family by the end of the month, and Roush Fenway Racing will look to two drivers to be on-call in case Kenseth needs to travel home to be with his family. Kenny Wallace and Brian Ickler will be ready to jump in to the #17 Crown Royal Ford for any practice and qualifying needs the team may have. Wallace will be ready to assume driving duties throughout Daytona International Speedway's Speedweeks events, while Ickler will be at the track for both Phoenix and Las Vegas race weekends. Kenseth plans to be behind the wheel of the #17 Ford on race days, but depending on when the newest member of the family arrives, he may need assistance from Wallace and/or Ickler to practice the car for the team.(Roush Fenway Racing)(2-5-2011)

Roush adjusting to life with one eye: Jack Roush took a good ribbing at the end of last season about being "one-eyed Jack." Well, now he in a way is back to two eyes. Roush lost the vision in his left eye in a July 27 plane crash. He had a prosthetic eye put in around Thanksgiving. "My prosthetic eye is doing very well," Roush said Thursday during the Sprint Media Tour. "I haven't had any infection from it, I haven't had any problem of any kind with it. Nine days ago, I had some cosmetic surgery so I've still got a little swelling for that," Roush said. "I've had no complication at all from any of the surgeries I had. I sleep well. My corrected vision with my reading glasses is 20/15 and I've adjusted to having one eye as well as [I could]."(Scene Daily)(1-28-2011)

Congrats: Jack Roush announced Thursday during the Charlotte Media Tour that the wives of #99-Carl Edwards, #16-Greg Biffle, and #17-Matt Kenseth are all expecting babies this year.(1-27-2011)
UPDATE: Greg Biffle tweeted Thursday: "Its a girl!!!! Barbie doll not a fishing rod".
AND: Kenseth's baby is due in late April, Biffle's on July 10.(Scene Daily)(1-27-2010)

Roush Fenway partners with Navistar: Roush Fenway Racing has announced a multi-year organization-wide partnership with Navistar. The agreement will see all Roush Fenway haulers transported to all tests and races behind Navistar's International LoneStar Series Diesel Trucks.(Roush Fenway Racing)(1-27-2011)

Minor Roush re-organization: Chip Bolin, who formerly worked as the race engineer for Matt Kenseth's #17 team -- including a stint as the crew chief -- took over the Roush Fenway Racing engineering leadership role from Chris Andrews during Preseason Thunder. Heading into the 2010 season, the engineering department used a two-headed approach, with veteran RFR man Andrews heading the race engineering and race simulation section and Tommy Wheeler overseeing the chassis development and fabrication section. In the offseason Andrews, who has experience as a Cup crew chief, was named crew chief for newcomer Trevor Bayne's RFR Nationwide Series program (NASCAR.com)(1-23-2011)

2010 Races [3] that Valvoline is scheduled to be the primary sponsor:
Atlanta - 3/7
Talladega - 4/25
Phoenix 11/14

2010 Races [9] that Crown Royal Black is scheduled to be the primary sponsor:
Phoenix - 4/10
Texas - 4/18
Darlington - 5/8
Dover - 5/16
Charlotte (All-Star) - 5/22
Pocono - 6/6
Michigan - 6/13
Sonoma - 6/20
New Hampshire - 6/27

2010 Races [2] that Jeremiah Weed Sweet Tea Vodka is scheduled to be the primary sponsor:
Charlotte - 5/30
Daytona - 7/3

Roush Fenway Racing names new President: Roush Fenway Racing has announced that Steve Newmark has been named president of its multi-car racing organization. Newmark will succeed Geoff Smith in the position; Smith is retiring at the end of December after serving in the role for the previous 13 years. Newmark, who previously was a shareholder at the law firm of Robinson, Bradshaw and Hinson, joined the organization as senior vice president of business operations in April. He brings an innovative skill set and fresh approach, highlighted by extensive NASCAR and outside sports and entertainment experience, to the position. "We are excited about Steve coming on board as our president," said Roush Fenway owner Jack Roush. "Steve has a solid background working in all areas of sports and brings new ideas and insight into our organization. Importantly, he has been part of the Roush Fenway family for many years, beginning as outside counsel and then as head of our business operations this year. Geoff Smith did an outstanding job of running the business affairs of our company for the past 20 years and we could not have done this without him. Geoff's leadership has set the bar high and we believe that Steve is the right person to ensure that we remain a leader in the marketplace and in the garage. Since his arrival, I've been extremely pleased with his business acumen, work ethic and his desire to engage in all aspects of our business. We are certainly excited to move forward with Steve at the helm."(Roush Fenway Racing)(12-20-2010)

Fennig to stay with #17 team: #17-Matt Kenseth, speaking at the Matt Kenseth fan club party on Saturday, confirmed that Jimmy Fennig will be back as crew chief on the #17 next year.(Matt Kenseth Fan Club Facebook page)(12-12-2010)

No major changes planned at Roush: While only two of his four teams made it to victory lane in 2010 and accounted for just four of the season's 36 race wins, team co-owner Jack Roush says he doesn't anticipate wholesale changes within the Roush Fenway Racing organization during the offseason. That doesn't mean there won't be movement, but it's unlikely there will be major changes involving all four of the organization's NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams. "We're re-evaluating everybody's job, from crew chiefs to engineers to tire changers for all four of our programs," Roush said Tuesday while attending the Raybestos Rookie of the Year awards luncheon at Charlotte Motor Speedway. "We'll certainly build on the strength we have had, but if we have a weakness or see an opportunity ... again, promoting from within whenever possible and generally that is our trademark. We will be looking for ways to improve ourselves." Roush Fenway Racing fields Sprint Cup teams for four drivers - #16-Greg Biffle, #99-Carl Edwards, #17-Matt Kenseth and #6-David Ragan. Biffle, Edwards and Kenseth qualified for NASCAR's Chase For The Sprint Cup while Ragan finished 24th in points.
Kenseth's team was one of two for Roush Fenway that had notable personnel changes take place during the season. After starting the year with crew chief Drew Blickensderfer, Todd Parrott was named crew chief following the Daytona 500. In June, veteran Jimmy Fennig replaced Parrott. Ragan finished outside the top 20 in points for the second consecutive year after finishing 13th in 2008. His team also saw a change in crew chiefs during the year as Blickensderfer returned to the top of the pit box in September, replacing Donnie Wingo. There could be changes to members of the pit crews. As for his organization's Nationwide Series program, Roush said he hopes to field three teams in 2011 - for Edwards, Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Trevor Bayne.(SceneDaily)(11-28-2010)

Tiebreaker Gives Kenseth's Crew Tissot Pit Road Season Championship: The closely contested Tissot pit road competition, which saw four teams tied for the lead, came down to a tiebreaker to determine the season pit crew champion. Matt Kenseth's #17 crew was awarded the Tissot Pit Road Precision Award championship as a result of winning the tiebreaker that called for the team whose driver finished the highest in the final NASCAR Sprint Cup point standings. Kenseth's team shared the lead with the crews for #24-Jeff Gordon, #18-Kyle Busch and #1-Jamie McMurray, each scoring four pit road victories during the 2010 campaign. The #17 crew won the tiebreaker with Kenseth leading the way among the four drivers with a fifth-place finish in the driver point standings. For winning the season-long Tissot Pit Road Precision Award title the #17 team will receive a $105,000 bonus from Tissot plus Tissot watches for the pit crew members and driver.
The #17 Roush Fenway Racing crew will also receive an all-expense paid trip to Las Vegas to accept the prize money and Tissot watches at the Champion's Week NASCAR/NMPA Myers Brothers Awards Luncheon, Thursday, Dec. 2 in the Bellagio Ballroom.
Kenseth's over-the-wall crew consists of: Justin Nottestad (front-tire changer), Joe Crossen (front-tire carrier), Dave Smith (rear-tire changer), Garrett Reding (rear-tire carrier), Cameron Cobb (jackman), Brad Robison (gasman) and Dave McDonald (catch can). The crew chief is Jimmy Fennig and the pit crew coach is Andy Ward.
"The entire #17 Crown Royal pit crew did a tremendous job this season in the pits," said pit crew coach Ward. "We worked very hard on pit stops throughout the year, so it's an honor to know that for the second year in a row, our Roush Fenway organization has won the Tissot award." Last year's Tissot Pit Road Precision Award winner also came from the Roush Fenway Racing stable with Greg Biffle's #16 crew taking top honors. A total of 19 different teams won the Tissot award in 2010. Each weekly-winning crew received $5,000 plus a Tissot watch. The weekly Tissot Pit Road Precision Award winner went to the team whose car spent the least amount of time on pit road and finished on the lead lap. The competition was designed to recognize and reward the extraordinary talents of Sprint Cup pit crews (Tissot), see standings and race-by-race winners on the 2010 Pit Crew News page.(11-24-2010)

Career start 400 for Kenseth: Roush Fenway's #17-Matt Kenseth will make his 400th Sprint Cup start this wekeend at Homestead-Miami. During that span, Kenseth has 18 wins, 117 top fives and 167 top 10 finishes and a Series Championship (RFR)(11-17-2010)

Edwards wins with FR9 Engine, will run all races in 2011: Carl Edwards' Ford Fusion has been on an impressive winning streak, earning front row starting positions and capturing the win in the last two Nationwide Series races. Edward's also qualified on the pole during this week's Sprint Cup Series race at Phoenix International Raceway and swept the weekend by winning the Kobalt Tools 500. Edwards drives the #99 Aflac Ford Fusion powered by Roush Yates' new FR9 engine. The FR9 is the first Ford purpose-built race engine ever engineered and produced at Roush Yates Engines in Mooresville, NC. The new Ford engine has been integrated slowly into the Sprint Cup Series throughout the second half of the 2010 season with help from Roush Fenway Racing and Richard Petty Motorsports' cars racing the engine intermittently. It has been a remarkable learning period for the FR9, with a total of 5 poles and 3 wins, including Edwards' win this weekend that required both horsepower and efficient fuel mileage to beat Championship contenders Jimmie Johnson and Denny Hamlin. "The new FR9 engine that Ford helped us with certainly was a factor today," said Jack Roush, owner of Roush Fenway Racing. "The fact that we were able to save gas and still have enough speed to maintain position on the race track was all very good. I'm thrilled to be in Victory Lane this weekend." Even though a Championship is out of reach for Ford this year, the FR9 engine has shown an impressive increase in performance and reliability throughout the second half of the 2010 Sprint Cup season. These improvements bring enthusiasm to the Ford Racing and Roush Yates Engines camps, as they plan to run the FR9 in all Ford cars for the full 2011 Sprint Cup Season.
"I'm excited to be running the FR9 in all Fords for the entire 2011 Sprint Cup Season and soon to come for the Nationwide and Camping World Truck Series," said Doug Yates, CEO of Roush Yates Engines. "Carl's win at Phoenix is just another testament to the power Roush Yates' FR9 engine is capable of. Everyone at the engine shop has been working hard to get this engine just right, and we are extremely proud of Roush Fenway Racing and their accomplishments with it this year. I look forward to watching the FR9 race at Ford Championship weekend next week at Homestead, as well as the 2011 Sprint Cup Season."(Roush Yates Engines)(11-15-2010)

Drivers visiting Walter Reed: NASCAR's annual visit to the Walter Reed Army Medical Center is set for Thursday, with a total of 10 drivers scheduled to attend along with NASCAR President Mike Helton. Drivers expected to visit include #43-AJ Allmendinger, #16-Greg Biffle, #2-Kurt Busch, #38-David Gilliland,#17-Matt Kenseth, #12-Brad Keselowski, #98-Paul Menard, #87-Joe Nemechek, #39-Ryan Newman and #82-Scott Speed. Show cars on display are expected to be #39 U.S. ARMY Chevy, #88 National Guard Chevy, #99 Scotts Ford, #2 Miller Lite Dodge, #11 FedEx Toyota, #24 National Guard Chevy, #10 Sprint show car and a NASCAR/Walter Reed Army Medical Center car.(NASCAR)(9-22-2010)

Roush Fenway Remains a Leader in Sustainablity: Its no secret that Roush Fenway Racing recycles 96 percent of every race car but it's their continued efforts to become more sustainable that is really paying off for the environment. In 2009 the team recycled 65 tons of plastics, metal and paper and implemented small but impactful changes across all its facilities. These efforts helped the team meet its goal of an overall 10 percent improvement in indoor air quality; reduction of water consumption; increase in waste reduction and recycling; and improvement in energy usage over the last year.
In total the team recycled 26,660 pounds of plastic in 2009, up from 12,427 pounds in 2008. The increased number reflects a company-wide education and an increase in the number of items that were recycled beyond drink bottles. The team also recycled 11,335 pounds of paper, down from 19,628 pounds the year before in part because of the efforts to either not print documents or use auto-duplexing.
Additionally, the team has switched to biodegradable soy-based products where practical (instead of harmful chemical degreasers); eliminated Styrofoam cups; switched from 400w bulbs to 360w bulbs; mandated a managed forestry content for all paper, envelopes, etc.; and added additional occupancy sensors in the race and fabrication shops to reduce energy consumption. The effort doesn't stop at the shop though, Roush Fenway is extending its efforts beyond the race team as well.
Roush Fenway is a participant in the Cabarrus Sustainability Council, a joint effort between the Cabarrus Regional Chamber of Commerce and Cabarrus Economic Development that works to promote sustainability through public and private collaborations. Just this week, the Council announced a partnership between local school systems, the business community and local government to bring a comprehensive recycling program to local schools beginning this school year.(RFR)(8-29-2010)

NTSB issues preliminary report on Roush crash: The National Transportation Safety Board issued its preliminary report on Jack Roush's plane crash that happened last month at Oshkosh, Wis. The report does not assign blame for the incident but does provide a few more details of what happened. In the report, it states that Roush's "airplane appeared to overshoot the runway centerline during this turn (a left turn for the runway) and then level its wings momentarily before entering a slight right bank simultaneously as the nose of the airplane pitched up. The airplane then turned left toward the runway centerline and began a descent. During this descent, the airplane's pitch appeared to increase until the airplane entered a right bank and struck the grass area west of the runway in a nose down, right wing low attitude.'' The report -- remember this is a preliminary report, a final one will come later -- did not mention the traffic "conflict'' he encountered upon landing that he said contributed to the incident. Such details are likely to be examined in the final report. The preliminary report stated that air traffic controllers were interviewed, amateur video was reviewed, the NTSB spent two days examining the plane before giving it back to Roush and found "no preimpact malfunctions or anomalies'' in the on-scene inspections of the "airframe structure, flight control systems, or two turbo-fan engines.'' The report also states that "several non-volatile memory devices were removed from the airplane and were retained for future download. A cockpit voice recorder was recovered and shipped to the NTSB Vehicle Recorder Division in Washington, D.C. for readout."(Hampton Roads)(8-15-2010)

Jack Roush back at the track: NASCAR team owner Jack Roush was back at the racetrack Friday, having permanently lost vision in his left eye but otherwise feeling lucky to survive yet another plane crash. And yes, he expects to fly again. Roush, who crashed his jet just over two weeks ago while trying to land at an air show in Wisconsin, said he ruptured his left eyeball in the crash and doesn't expect to ever be able to see out of it again. "Everything will come back, except for the eye," he told reporters at Michigan International Speedway. Roush then joked that he uses his right eye to examine spark plugs anyway. Wearing sunglasses and his trademark Panama-style hat, Roush was present on pit road for qualifying. He had left the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., earlier this week. In addition to his eye injury, Roush said he broke his jaw, sustained a compression fracture in his back and hurt his left cheek.(Associated Press)(8-13-2010)

Roush released from hospital: Jack Roush, co-owner of Roush Fenway Racing and chairman of ROUSH Enterprises, was released from Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., yesterday. "I would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of support and concern I have received the past two weeks," Roush said. "Our teams and drivers have not missed a beat in my absence, and I am proud of the effort they have put forth. I look forward to rejoining them at the track soon." It has not yet been determined when Roush will return to the race track.(Roush Fenway PR)(8-12-2010)

Roush hopes to make it to Michigan: Angelique Chengelis reported on ESPN's NASCAR Now Sunday morning that team owner Jack Roush is hoping to be at the Michigan race next weekend. He continues to recover from his airplace accident at the Mayo Clinic and his attendance at the track will depend on his progress this week.(8-8-2010)

Decals on Roush cars: To show support for the boss, Jack Roush, who was injured in a airplance accident this past week, all the Roush Fenway Racing stock cars competing this weekend will sport a special decal. This can be seen on the four NASCAR Sprint Cup Series cars at Pocono Raceway as well as the NASCAR Nationwide Series entries at Iowa Speedway.(roushperformance.com)(7-31-2010)

Roush has more surgery; no word when back to the track: Multi-team owner Jack Roush had another surgery Saturday and a time frame for him to return to the race track has not been determined, Roush Fenway Racing General Manager Robbie Reiser said Sunday. Roush was involved in a plane crash Tuesday at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wis. The Roush Fenway Racing co-owner was able to walk away from the crash but pictures showed a bloodied face. Reiser said he was unsure of the full extent of the injuries. Roush, 68, is being treated for facial injuries at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., according to the team. "I know there was a surgery done yesterday, but most of it is an evaluation of what they're going to do and I think you'll see a lot of updates coming this week," Reiser said prior to the Sunoco Red Cross Pennsylvania 500 at Pocono Raceway. "It's going to be a while [before he returns]. They've got some work to do there. They haven't really discussed that with us right now." Reiser's role will increase some with Roush in the hospital. Roush typically visits the race shop each Tuesday and then is at the track on the weekend. "Jack's a big part of our company and has been for a long, long time," Reiser said. "Whenever something like this happens, everybody has to pick up a little bit and help along. Jack has always taken care of a lot of stuff we have had at the race track, so I am here for him not being here." Roush called Reiser on Friday and they talked about the organization's performance - as it still looks for that first Cup win of the season.(more at SceneDaily)(8-1-2010)

Thursday update about Jack Roush's condition: Jack Roush, co-owner of Roush Fenway Racing and chairman of ROUSH Enterprises, was transferred to Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., Wednesday evening. Following surgery Tuesday night related to the facial damage sustained in the accident, he remains in serious, but stable condition. Roush was injured in a plane accident at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisc., on Tuesday. He will continue to be treated at Mayo Clinic for his facial injuries. The Roush organization would like to thank the physicians and staff at Theda Clark Medical Center in Neenah, Wisc., for the care and treatment provided during his stay. Roush Fenway Racing would also like to thank everyone for the outpouring of support and well wishes. Those wishing to make a charitable donation in the name of Jack Roush are encouraged to contribute to Speedway Children's Charities at www.speedwaycharities.org. Please identify your contribution as "Jack Roush" in the notes section (Roush Fenway Racing)(7-29-2010)

Roush suffers minor injuries in plane crash UPDATE 2: NASCAR team owner Jack Roush was in serious but stable condition after walking away from a plane crash at Whitman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wis. on Tuesday night. "There are injuries. Possible surgery," Roush Fenway Racing president Geoff Smith said in a text message to The Associated Press. "But he walked out of the plane." Smith said Roush's injuries include facial lacerations. Roush was flying his private jet, a Beechcraft Premier 1A from Detroit. The jet made hard contact on landing and cracked the fuselage. Brenda Strickland, a friend of Roush's, also was on board the plane. NASCAR journalist Bob Margolis, who is writing a book about Roush's life, was told that Roush and Strickland were not seriously hurt. "Jack got out and had some blood on his face," Margolis said. "Apparently he bumped his head. They both were taken to a local hospital for observation, but I've been told they are OK." Roush, an aviation buff, was attending the Experimental Aircraft Association's annual AirVenture in Oshkosh this week.
In a statement on the EAA website, officials said a Beechcraft Premier business jet registered to Roush Fenway Racing, LLC was involved in a landing accident at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. The accident occurred at approximately 6:15 pm/ct, the statement said. According to the EAA, the National Transportation Safety Board and Winnebago County Sheriff's Department confirmed that two occupants on board were Roush and Strickland of Plymouth, Mich. "Each exited the aircraft following the accident," the statement said. "Both were transported to local hospitals, with Roush in serious but stable condition and Strickland with non-life threatening injuries. The NTSB is leading the investigation into the accident."(ESPN, see an image of the plane at avweb.com)(7-27-2019)
UPDATE: Jack Roush, co-owner of Roush Fenway Racing and chairman of ROUSH® Enterprises, has been hospitalized following a plane accident at Wittman Air Field in OshKosh, Wisc. Roush, in town for the annual EAA AirVenture show, was landing his Hawker Beechcraft Premier jet when the accident occurred. He was transported to a local hospital. Dr. Kevin Wasco, the attending physician, says that Roush is in serious but stable condition. His injuries are not life threatening.(Roush Racing)(7-28-2010)
UPDATE 2: Jack Roush remains hospitalized in serious, but stable condition following a plane accident at Wittman Air Field in Oshkosh, Wisc., yesterday. He is currently under observation for facial injuries sustained in the accident. His passenger, Brenda Stricklin, was treated and released from a Wisconsin hospital this afternoon. The entire Roush organization would like to thank everyone for the outpouring of support and well wishes. Those wishing to make a charitable donation in the name of Jack Roush are encouraged to contribute to Speedway Children's Charities at www.speedwaycharities.org. Please identify your contribution as "Jack Roush" in the notes section.(Roush Fenway Racing)(7-28-2010)

Roush Fenway Hits One Million-Mile Mark in Sprint Cup: On February 14, 1988 Jack Roush launched into his first official foray into the big-time world of NASCAR racing. The day would be a short one - lasting just under 50 of the scheduled 500 miles of the world's biggest race. It was a humble beginning for what would grow into one of the most successful organizations in professional sports. Today - almost 25 years later - Roush Fenway Racing has covered over one million miles in Sprint Cup action, enough miles to cover the Earth 40 times over. The miles were turned by 16 different Cup drivers over a 23-plus year period. During that span, Roush Fenway has fielded 2,688 Sprint Cup entries, captured 116 wins, while collecting 632 top fives, 1102 top 10s and 65 poles. The organization has churned 768,810 laps, leading 32,754 laps along the way, while capturing two championships and finishing the season top two on nine occasions.(RFR PR)(7-23-2010)

Reiser to return as Kenseth's crew chief? Loomis moving to Roush? Sirius NASCAR Radio's Sirius Speedway with Dave Moody has learned that Robbie Reiser is likely to return as crewchief for Matt Kenseth's #17 Roush Fenway Racing Ford next season. Team owner Jack Roush pulled veteran Jimmy Fennig out of Roush Fenway's R&D Department to replace Todd Parrott as crew chief last week, the second change of the season for the #17 team. Fennig is Kenseth's fifth crewchief since 2007, and said last week that he expects to remain atop the pit box for the remainder of the 2010 campaign. Sources tell Sirius Speedway that there is "a very strong possibility" that RFR General Manager Robbie Reiser will return to the post in 2011. "Robbie wants to come back," said one source on condition of anonymity, "but he's doing such a good job as GM that Jack can't justify making a move right now. Next season, expect to see Reiser back on the pit box, with Robbie Loomis succeeding him as General Manager." Kenseth admitted that consideration is being given to bringing Reiser back as crewchief, saying, "He probably would have filled in for the rest of the year (and tried) to do both, but there just are not enough hours in a day."(Sirius Speedway)(6-28-2010)

Kenseth dicusses crew chief change: Matt Kenseth took responsibility for his first crew chief change of the year in February, and on Friday, team owner Jack Roush said the call for a second switch was his. Roush surprised veteran Jimmy Fennig by taking him out of the research and development department and putting him in charge of Kenseth's #17 Sprint Cup Series team. Todd Parrott was reassigned back to his old job, overseeing Roush Fenway Racing's superspeedway program. "Matt and I shared a concern that we weren't getting the optimum number of changes in the garage (during practice) based on the plan and the preparation and the execution of the pre-race activities," Roush said at New Hampshire Motor Speedway in Loudon. "That was not the case in the first few races when Todd was at the helm, but, for whatever reason - I don't know if Matt stopped talking to him or I stopped talking to him or what happened, but for whatever reason - we kind of had a breakdown in team communication and the effectiveness we had of getting ready for the race." Fennig is the fifth crew chief since 2007. Robbie Reiser became general manger of Roush Fenway's Sprint Cup operations at the end of that season. Although it has been suggested that the only answer for Kenseth is to be reunited with Reiser, Reiser is too valuable to the organization as a whole, Kenseth said. "He probably would have came and filled in for the rest of the year if he could try to do both, but there just are not enough hours in a day," Kenseth said. "It does seem like I'm pretty hard on crew chiefs lately, that's for sure, but we've just had some opportunities within the organization. . . . We just had some opportunities to mix things up a little bit and see if we can get the team heading in the direction we think it needs to be headed in."(Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)(6-27-2010)

New crew chief for Kenseth UPDATE: #17-Matt Kenseth and crew chief Todd Parrott have parted ways. Former championship winning crew chief Jimmy Fennig, who was running Roush Fenway Racing's R & D Center, will act as temporary crew chief for the #17 Roush Fenway Ford until a permanent solution can be found. Fennig is a longtime Roush employee and worked with #6-David Ragan last year. Parrott replaced Drew Blickensderfer following the season-opening Daytona 500. Together Parrott and Kenseth posted four top fives and eight top 10 finishes. The pair's best performance together was second at Atlanta Motor Speedway in March. Parrott could not be reached for comment but is expected to return to the Roush's research and development department.(FoxSports)(6-23-2010)
UPDATE: Roush Fenway Racing has named Jimmy Fennig as the crew chief for Matt Kenseth and the #17 Crown Royal Ford in the Sprint Cup Series. The move pairs Kenseth - who drove Roush Fenway to its first Sprint Cup Championship in 2003 - with Fennig, who served as crew chief on Roush Fenway's 2004 championship team. "I am very pleased that we have been able to place these two together on the #17," said team owner Jack Roush. "These guys were both instrumental in our back-to-back Sprint Cup Championships in 2003 and 2004, with Matt driving us to our first Cup Championship and Jimmy of course being instrumental in the 2004 championship as the team's crew chief. We would expect this pairing to yield strong results as both of these guys are extremely talented and among the best in the business at what they do." Fennig will be joined on the #17 by car chief Richie Davis. Davis had been working in Roush Fenway's research and development department along side Fennig. Todd Parrott, who had been working as crew chief on the #17, will serve as the new R&D manager at Roush Fenway; a position formally held by Fennig. Current #17 car chief Charles "Cully" Barraclough will also move over to car chief the R&D program.(Roush Fenway Racing)(6-23-2010)

New Ford engine to run in some cars at Pocono: Robbie Reiser, general manager at Roush Fenway Racing, said that some cars in the organization and at Richard Petty Motorsports will use the new Ford engine next week at Pocono before all the teams for both organizations use it the following week at Michigan. The engine debuted last season but has been used sparingly this season with plans for all the Ford teams to be running the engine this summer. Only the Wood Brothers, who are running a limited schedule, have used the new engine throughout this season. Scheduled to run the new Ford engine at Pocono next weekend are #43-AJ Allmendinger, #17-Matt Kenseth, #16-Greg Biffle and #99-Carl Edwards. Roush and RPM will use the new engine in all the remaining races, Reiser said, except next month at New Hampshire and Infineon Raceway and at Watkins Glen and Bristol in August.(Roanoke Times)(5-31-2010)

Jeremiah Weed Southern Style Sweet Tea Vodka Salutes Military Roots: As Americans across the country prepare to remember the American heroes who serve our country with a variety of responsible Memorial Day cookouts and celebrations, race fans will look to one of their favorite drivers to help pay tribute. During the upcoming NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Charlotte Motor Speedway, Matt Kenseth will have Jeremiah Weed Southern Style Sweet Tea vodka on the hood of his #17 Ford Fusion in an effort to honor fighter pilots everywhere. As the legend is told, Jeremiah Weed became the drink of choice for men and women fighter pilots after a Fighter Jet went down without injury outside of Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas. When the group involved in the incident later returned to the site, they toasted with Jeremiah Weed. Since, Air Force pilots have toasted with Jeremiah Weed Bourbon upon finishing their flights. If Kenseth can wheel the #17 Ford to Victory Lane, Jeremiah Weed will make a $100,000 donation to a military-themed charity. Regardless of how the Jeremiah Weed car finishes, a total of $10,000 will be donated.(PR)(5-28-2010)

Kenseth's son wins at Winchester: Ross Kenseth, Bret Miles, Sr. and Kevin Claborn took hard fought victories on the opening day of the legendary Winchester Speedway. On a day that threatened rain but was dry all day, with a strong wind, the racing was hot as drivers fought every lap for the win. Two races with cars side by side on the last lap and one winner that only led the last lap kept the crowd on the edge of their seats the entire day. Kenseth started his first trip to Winchester by setting fast time for the Manning Service 100, just beating John VanDoorn by only .008 of a second. He then drew a four putting Tommy St. John on the pole with Scott Hantz on the outside of the front row. St. John jumped out to the early lead, with VanDoorn following him and pressuring him as they ran out front.(Winchester Speedway)(5-18-2010)

Roush Fenway Racing spring Fan Day: Roush Fenway Racing is scheduled to host their spring Fan Day event on Thursday, May 27, 2010 at their headquarters in Concord, N.C. Fans are invited to Roush Fenway to participate in activities that will include two autograph sessions, with the first session starting at 11:30 a.m. featuring Roush Fenway Racing drivers Carl Edwards, Greg Biffle, Ricky Stenhouse Jr., and Colin Braun. The second autograph session will start at 12:30 and feature Jack Roush, David Ragan, and Matt Kenseth. A limited number of tickets for each session will be handed out at 8:00 a.m. that morning. To qualify for an autograph ticket, fans must bring two non-perishable items or a monetary donation to help support our local Cabarrus County food pantries. There will be sponsor displays and food vendors for fans to enjoy outside and the Roush Fenway museum (with new displays) and store will be open for fans to peruse and shop. The Roush Fenway Racing store and museum will be open with special extended hours during the May and October race weeks. For times and more info see roushfenway.com.(5-4-2010)

Kenseth's Crew Claims Tissot Pit Road Award in Phoenix: Matt Kenseth's over-the-wall crew captured the Tissot Pit Road Precision Award in Saturday's (April 10) Subway Fresh Fit 600 NASCAR Sprint Cup race at Phoenix International Raceway. The quick stops by the #17 crew helped Kenseth attain a sixth-place finish at the one-mile oval. Kenseth's Crown Royal Black Ford spent the least amount of time on pit road - 289.915 seconds - during the 375-lap race, which was the longest Sprint Cup event in track history. Race winner Ryan Newman's #39 Tornados Chevrolet was second (295.547) and Mark Martin's #5 GoDaddy.com Chevrolet was third (302.847).
The #17 Roush Fenway Racing over-the-wall crew consists of: Justin Nottestad (front-tire changer), Joe Crossen (front-tire carrier), Dave Smith (rear-tire changer), Garrett Reding (rear-tire carrier), Cameron Cobb (jackman), Brad Robison (gasman) and Dave McDonald (catch can). The winning pit crew in each Sprint Cup race will earn $5,000 and a Tissot V8 Quartz Chronograph watch. The team with the most Tissot Pit Road Precision Award wins at the completion of the 36-race schedule will receive a $105,000 bonus plus Tissot watches for the over-the-wall crew members and driver. Martin Truex Jr.'s team continues to top the Tissot standings with two wins after seven races. Five teams remain in second place with one win.(Tissot)(4-16-2010)

Special scheme for Kenseth in two races: Jeremiah Weed Sweet Tea Vodka is scheduled to be the primary aponaor for #17 Matt Kenseth in the Coca-Cola 600 at Charlotte Motor Speedway in May and the Coke Zero 400 at Daytona in July. See image of the scheme on my #17 Team Schemes page.(4-13-2010)

Kenseth talks about Martinsville contact with Gordon: Is Matt Kenseth still upset with Jeff Gordon over getting bumped out of the way during the green-white-checkered flag finish at Martinsville? During an interview in Arlington, Texas on Wednesday, Performance Racing Network and Texas Motor Speedway announcer Brad Gillie asked Kenseth about the incident. Kenseth chuckled and said "He never likes the way I race him so...I don't know...he's honestly taken me out of three top-three finishes now and he still went on to finish third. I barely bumped into him at Martinsville and got under him and tried to go for a win and I thought we were gonna race side-by-side for the win on the last lap and instead he decided to wreck me and deliberately try to ruin my day. So, it's in the past and I'm just gonna move on and just start over the next week. He's gonna have to race how he wants to race and he's gonna have his opinions and I'm gonna have my opinions on things and we'll just go on from there." Kenseth took part in NASCAR's winners circle program at the International Bowling Hall of Fame and museum Wednesday to help promote the upcoming races at Texas Motor Speedway.(PRN Garage Pass)(4-8-2010)

Crown Royal Black on the #17: This weekend at Phoenix, Kenseth will pilot the #17 Crown Royal Black Ford.(Roush Fenway PR)(4-7-2010)
UPDATE: When the dust settles for the upcoming NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race at Phoenix International Raceway, everything will be covered in Black, at least for Matt Kenseth. The former NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Champion will have Crown Royal Black, the newest addition to the Crown Royal portfolio, serving as primary sponsor of the #17 Ford for at least 10 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series events throughout the 2010 season. Beginning in Phoenix, the #17 Crown Royal Black Ford, which will be named the "Royal Rebel" car to showcase the boldness of the new whisky, will hit the track in an effort to encourage adult fans to enjoy the new product responsibly. As an added bonus, if the Crown Royal Black car finishes in the top-10 during any of the special paint scheme races, the first adult race fan to tweet "Crown Royal Black" and Matt's finishing position to @PR17CrownRoyal will receive a special phone call from Kenseth or a member of the #17 team.(Crown Royal / Taylor PR)(4-8-2010)

Jack Roush to be Honored with Robert E. Petersen Lifetime Achievement Award: On Friday, March 12 Jack Roush will receive the highest compliment in the hot rod world as he will be presented with the Robert E. Petersen Lifetime Achievement Award. The ceremony takes place during the grand opening breakfast of the 12th Annual HotRod & Restoration Trade Show in front of nearly one thousand attendees at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis. "Being named a recipient of the Robert E. Petersen Lifetime Achievement Award is obviously a tremendous distinction and something completely unexpected," Roush said. "I remember Robert (Petersen) always being a great ambassador for the auto industry and hot rods. It is an honor to be mentioned among the many legendary names who have received this award in the past." The Robert E. Petersen Lifetime Achievement Award has been presented annually since 2002. Previous recipients include Wally Parks (NHRA), Carroll Shelby, George Barris, Vic Edelbrock, the Ford family, Alex Xydias (So-Cal Speed Shop), and "Speedy" Bill Smith (Speedway Motors).(Roush Fenway)(3-10-2010)

Valvoline to sponsor Kenseth UPDATE: hearing and seeing that Valvoline will sponsor #17-Matt Kenseth in a few 2010 Sprint Cup races. Supposedly for three races. See an image of the scheme on my #17 Team Schemes page.(12-12-2009)
UPDATE: Roush Fenway Racing announced that Valvoline, the leading innovator and supplier of quality, high-performing automotive products, will sponsor the #17 entry and driver Matt Kenseth for three NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races during the 2010 season. The #17 Valvoline Ford Fusion will debut this weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway and then will also serve as the primary sponsor for April's Talladega race weekend as well as the November Cup Series race in Phoenix [11/21]. Valvoline first teamed up with Roush Fenway Racing in 1990, and together the duo has brought home 44 wins in the Sprint Cup series [many with #6-Mark Martin]. Valvoline is the official motor oil at Roush Fenway Racing, and has been providing Americans with the best motor oil and automotive products longer than any other motor oil company.(RFR), see images of the scheme on my #17 Team Schemes page.(3-3-2010)

New crew chief for Kenseth: UPDATE: in a bit of a surprise move, Veteran crew chief Todd Parrott has been appointed crew chief of Roush Fenway's #17 Sprint Cup Crown Royal Ford team with driver Matt Kenseth. Parrott will take over the role effective immediately. Drew Blickensderfer, who has served as crew chief on the #17 since the start of the 2009 season [winning the Daytona 500 and race afterwards in Calif], will assume a role in Roush Fenway's research and development department. Parrott, who won a Sprint Cup championship with Dale Jarrett in 1999, is the third winningest active crew chief in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series with 29 career wins.(RFR)(2-17-2010)
UPDATE: Matt Kenseth says it became obvious that something had to change when his crew members were becoming too much like him. "You guys say I don't show emotion sometimes. I kind of felt like the whole group was sort of like that," Kenseth said Friday, explaining an unexpected crew chief change made after only one race. "I just felt like it needed something to throw a spark in the thing." Back in California where Kenseth got his last victory a year ago, Todd Parrott replaces Drew Blickensderfer atop the #17 Ford pit box this weekend. After Blickensderfer became his crew chief last year, Kenseth won at Daytona and California. That momentum didn't carry over because Kenseth hasn't won since, and missed the Chase for the Sprint Cup championship for the first time. But instead of making a change during the offseason, Kenseth made the move after an eighth-place finish at Daytona last weekend, when he managed a top-10 finish after running in the middle of the pack most of Sunday's race. "We were just missing something on the team," Kenseth said. "I didn't feel the way we operated at Daytona that we could win races and win championships." Kenseth took the blame for the timing of the switch, explaining that team owner Jack Roush asked him at the end of last season if any changes needed to be made. At the time, Kenseth felt like everything was OK and that Blickensderfer deserved the benefit of a full season and full offseason. "It's really hard to explain the timing of the change. It doesn't make any sense," Kenseth said. "Instead of dragging it out, it was just something that needed to be done. ... Get a head start on this thing instead of waiting until we're halfway into the season and it's too late to dig ourselves out." Roush described himself as "really conflicted" about the switch but said that it became clear when he met with general manager Robbie Reiser and Kenseth this week that the change was necessary. Roush said there was "zero sponsor pressure" for a switch. The team owner also, without elaborating, used the term "interim" concerning the role for Parrott, who was the crew chief when Dale Jarrett won the 1999 Cup championship.(Associated Press)(2-19-2010)

Roush Fenway Fords to Carry Special Decal: Roush Fenway's race cars will each carry a special decal honoring the life and cause of Olympic medalist skier and multiple sclerosis (MS) advocate, Jimmie Heuga, in this Sunday's Daytona 500 race at Daytona International Speedway. Heuga passed away Monday at the age of 66 in Colorado; 46 years to the day that he won his bronze medal in the 1964 Winter Olympics. Heuga, a college skiing teammate of Roush Fenway President Geoff Smith at the University of Colorado, was a bronze medalist in the 1964 Olympic games, but will most be remembered for founding 'Can Do Multiple Sclerosis' (formerly The Heuga Center for Multiple Sclerosis) a national nonprofit organization that has served as a leading provider of innovative lifestyle empowerment programs for people with MS and their support partners. Heuga became one of the first two Americans -- along with teammate Billy Kidd -- to win an Olympic medal in Alpine skiing. He was diagnosed with MS in 1970 at the age of 26, but refused to succumb to the neurological disease. He instead became a champion for others suffering from the disease, and his campaign to demonstrate that MS did not necessarily mean a life of inactivity is credited with helping to change the mindset about MS and exercise. For more information on the 'Can Do Multiple Sclerosis' organization, visit: www.mscando.org.(RFR)(2-14-2010)

Three drivers to run new Ford engine in Daytona 500: Ford Racing announced that #17-Matt Kenseth and #19-Elliott Sadler will join #21-Bill Elliott as drivers sporting the new Ford FR9 engine Sunday in the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway.(Racin' Today)(2-13-2010)

Crown Royal to sponsor Kenseth for more races : Roush Fenway Racing announced that Crown Royal has extended the number of races in which it will be primary sponsor of driver Matt Kenseth and the #17 Sprint Cup Series team. Crown Royal will serve as the primary sponsor for 35 Sprint Cup Series races in 2010 [of 38 races counting the Bud Shootout & All-Star race). The makers of Crown Royal Canadian whisky, a subsidiary of Diageo plc, have been partners with Roush Fenway Racing dating back to 2003. "I'm thrilled that Crown Royal chose to expand their sponsorship of our team for the entire 2010 season," said Kenseth, one of only five drivers in NASCAR history to win the Sprint Cup rookie of the year award, a Sprint Cup Championship and the Daytona 500. "I know that this is going to be a successful season for our #17 team and it will be great to represent the Crown Royal brand for 35 Cup Series events. I had the honor of working with DIAGEO and their Smirnoff ICE brand back in 2003 where we developed a great relationship. In addition to the sponsorship, we look forward to helping Crown Royal promote its responsible drinking platform, as well as kick-off the annual Crown Royal "Your Name Here" program this week, which awards naming rights to the Spring race at Richmond International Raceway to an adult fan." Kenseth will make his inaugural run in the #17 Crown Royal Ford on Saturday, Feb. 6 for the non-points exhibition event, the Budweiser Shootout, at Daytona International Speedway. The first points race of the season will be the Daytona 500 the on Sunday, Feb. 14 in which Kenseth is the defending champion of the event (Roush Fenway Racing). Supposedly Valvoline will be the sponsor for the other three races.(2-5-2010)

Roush close to having sponsors for all four cars: Three of Roush Fenway Racing's four Cup cars, for drivers #6-David Ragan (UPS), #16-Greg Biffle (3M/Post It) and #99-Carl Edwards (Aflac/Subway/Kellogg's) are fully sponsored, Smith said; but 2003 Cup champion Matt Kenseth's #17 Ford is not. "Within a very few days I think we'll be able to announce we have a fully-sponsored 17 car," RFR president Geoff Smith said of the car that has a partial season of funding from Crown Royal. (NASCAR.com)(1-14-2010)

Jack Roush to Be Inducted Into NMPA Hall of Fame: Jack Roush will be one of four honorees to be inducted into the National Motorsports Press Association Hall of Fame this Saturday night in Concord, North Carolina. Roger Penske, Rusty Wallace and Robert Yates will also be welcomed into the NMPA Hall of Fame this weekend. "Jack Roush's induction to the NMPA Hall of Fame is a well deserved honor for a man who has impacted not only NASCAR but racing with his innovations and ingenuity throughout his career," remarked Dustin Long, President, National Motorsports Press Association. "It will truly be an honor to be welcomed to the list of NMPA Hall of Fame inductees," said Roush. "The role of the media who cover NASCAR has certainly evolved over the years but I think we would all agree that now more than ever the job of informing the world about our great sport is of tremendous importance. I know the members of the NMPA are among those who care the most about both the history and the future of our sport so I consider this induction into their Hall of Fame a most cherished honor."(RFR)(1-14-2010)

Menard to run full Nationwide season: Roush Fenway will field four full-time teams in the 2010 Nationwide Series -- including a #98 Ford for Paul Menard, who races for Richard Petty Motorsports in the Cup Series -- and RFR president Geoff Smith said Wednesday that the stable sold has more than 75% of the sponsorship of its eight-car fleet in NASCAR's two top national series. Menard will run his first complete schedule since 2006, when he finished sixth in the championship for the second consecutive season before stepping into the Cup Series full time. That car is fully sponsored by the Menards home improvement store chain and a variety of partners. Smith said RFR's other three Nationwide programs had varying sponsorship gaps. Former series champion Carl Edwards will again compete full time in both Cup and Nationwide, running a #60 Ford sponsored by Fastenal and Copart in the secondary series. Smith said Edwards' car has "four open races." Colin Braun and Ricky Stenhouse Jr. will run full schedules as rookie of the year candidates in the #16 and #6 cars. Braun's car has 18 races with Con-way Freight and two more with 3M, leaving 15 of the series' 35 races unsponsored. Stenhouse has 18 races with CitiFinancial backing, leaving "the remainder for sale," Smith said. Biffle is part of a previously announced deal to run a partial Nationwide schedule for Baker Curb Racing, but "at this point in time David Ragan, Matt Kenseth and Greg Biffle are not doing Nationwide races with us."(NASCAR.com)(1-14-2010)

2009 Sponsor Schedule, DeWalt is the sponsor unless noted:

2009 Races [3] that USG Sheetrock is scheduled to be the primary sponsor:
Las Vegas - Mar 1
Chicago - July 11
Phoenix - Nov 15

2009 Races [4] that Carhartt is scheduled to be the primary sponsor:
California - Feb 22
Michigan - June 14
New Hampshire - Sept 20
Charlotte - Oct 17

2009 Races [4] that R+L Carriers is scheduled to be the primary sponsor:
Charlotte - May 24
Daytona - July 4
Atlanta - Sept 6
California - Oct 11

Valvoline to sponsor Kenseth: hearing and seeing that Valvoline will sponsor #17-Matt Kenseth in a few 2010 Sprint Cup races. No word how many or which races. See an image of the scheme on my #17 Team Schemes page.(12-12-2009)

Blickensderfer honored: Drew Blickensderfer, crew chief of the #17 Ford, won the Moog Problem Solver of the Year Award for 2009. This marks the first time Blickensderfer has won the award coming of a season that included winning the Daytona 500 and following that up with a win at the Auto Club Speedway the next weekend. Blickensderfer led his team to two wins, one pole, seven top-five and 12 top-10 finishes in 2009, his first full-season as crew chief for Matt Kenseth and the #17 team.(Roush Fenway Racing)(12-5-2009)

Roush Racing helps out NC Auto Racing HOF: For many, being able to give to others during this holiday season will be a difficult task. But it is not always the gift of tangible goods or money that can mean the most to its recipient. A recent event took place at the North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame in Mooresville, NC. On Thursday, November 19th, the NC Auto Racing HOF mailbox on Knob Hill Road was struck and destroyed by a customer. One of the museum's volunteers, an 80-year-old man, went outside to try to resurrect the mailbox. Watching him struggle with this task from across the street was someone from Roush Fenway Racing, who dispatched a group of their shop workers to come over and help. They poured cement for the new post, fabricated the mailbox, and installed it on the same day. All of this was done without their being asked to do so, and without any payment whatsoever. Replacing a mail box doesn't seem like a big expense but to small non-profit organizations like the Hall of Fame, it has an impact.(NCARHOF)(11-25-2009)

Final race for DeWalt on the #17: This weekend will mark the end of an era for Matt Kenseth and Roush Fenway Racing. After more than a decade serving as the primary sponsor for Matt Kenseth and the No. 17 team, DEWALT will run its last race aboard the No. 17 Ford Fusion this weekend at Homestead. One of the most successful partnerships in NASCAR history, the duo of Kenseth and DEWALT teamed for the 2000 Rookie of the Year Award, the 2003 Championship and the 2009 Daytona 500 win during their 10-plus year tenure together.(RFR)(11-18-2009)

Roush's Smith not retiring: Roush Fenway Racing president Geoff Smith has decided to delay his retirement. Smith said because of tough economic times and the merger between partner Yates Racing and Richard Petty Motorsports that he will stay on at least through the 2010 season. Smith is handling a lot of the paperwork in the merger that he said is agreed to on all major issues and should be announced soon. He also plays a major role in bringing sponsors to the cars for the Sprint Cup and Nationwide Series. Smith has yet to wrap up a full season of sponsorship for the #17 of Matt Kenseth.(see more at ESPN Insiders)(11-17-2009)

USG returns to sponsor #17 at Phoenix: The #17 Ford of Matt Kenseth will carry the blue and red colors of USG Sheetrock for the third and final time this weekend at Phoenix International Raceway. This week's car will be The #17 USG SHEETROCK Ford promoting the DUROCK cement board Next Gen logo (RFR). See images of the regular USG scheme on my #17 Team Schemes page.(11-12-2009)

150 Talladega starts for Roush: Roush Fenway will make its 150th Sprint Cup start at Talladega this weekend. Talladega is the eighth track in 2009 that the team has accomplished this feat. The first seven were Bristol, Charlotte, Daytona, Dover, Martinsville, Michigan, Pocono and Richmond.(Roush Fenway PR)(11-1-2009)

Roush to visit RPM: Jack Roush is scheduled to take a tour of the Richard Petty Motorsports facility on Wednesday. Other managers from Roush Fenway Racing will join Rosuh on the tour of the Statesville, N.C., shop. There have been ongoing talks since before September of a merger between Yates Racing, a sister organization of Roush Fenway, and RPM. Regardless of whether RPM merges with Yates, majority team owner George Gillett has said his team will be running Fords in 2010. Given that Roush is the principal supplier of Ford engines, RPM will be working directly with RFR in one form or another.(FoxSports), see an image of a real #9 Budweiser Ford for 2010 on my #9 Team Schemes page.(10-14-2009)

New Ford engine at Talladega: Ford will delay the debut of its new Sprint Cup engine, Doug Hervey, who oversees Ford's North American racing operations, said Saturday. The engine was scheduled to have debuted next week at Lowe's Motor Speedway. Instead, Ford will debut the restrictor-plate version of the engine at Talladega in three weeks. As for the non-restrictor-plate engine, it likely will debut at Texas or Homestead.(Virginian Pilot)
AND: Matt Kenseth's crew chief Drew Blickensderfer is expecting to have the new Ford FR9 engine in the #17 Fusion in two weeks at Talladega.
AND: On a related note: Blickensderfer expects to return as crew chief next season even though Kenseth failed to make the Chase for the first time since the format was introduced six years ago.(FoxSports)(10-11-2009)

Kenseth going for first sweep; R+L on the #17: Leaving Fontana, California this season back in the spring most people had named #17-Matt Kenseth and Drew Blickensderfer as the hottest driver/crew chief duo in the garage after having started the season off 2-0. But the dream of being on top was short lived, especially when the team failed to make the Chase at Richmond International Raceway. But all is not lost, Kenseth and Blickensderfer have a chance to sweep Auto Club Speedway's two races this season. Kenseth tied Jeff Gordon and Jimmie Johnson for a series high most wins at Auto Club Speedway with three after his win there earlier this season. If Kenseth is able to win this weekend it will be his first sweep at a track in NASCAR Sprint Cup Series competition.(NASCAR PR)
AND:The #17 Ford will carry the green and gold colors of R+L carriers this weekend at California. It will be the final of four races this season with R+L Carriers as the primary on the #17 Ford.(Roush Fenway PR), see an image of the scheme on my #17 Team Schemes page.(10-8-2009)

Roush keeping an eye on the Henrick cars in question: Car owner Jack Roush [#'s 6,16,17,26,99 Ford's] says he understands that the two cars in question [Hendrick Motorsports #5 and #48 Chevy's] were in fact slightly "out of tolerance," in being off-set a bit to the right (which would help in aerodynamics in corner handling), although Roush said the specific 'miss' was probably too slight to be of any significant advantage. "I've been fined a lot of times for a lot of different things...and if the cars were out of tolerance by a quarter of an inch, which is what I've heard...well, the rest of the garage is held to a much tighter tolerance than that," Roush said. "So we'll see what NASCAR ultimately does about it."(mikemulhern.net)(10-5-2009)

Kenseth talks to fans in Fontana: #17-Matt Kenseth, the winner of last February's Sprint Cup race at the Auto Club Speedway, returned to the Inland Empire on Sept. 23. But he wasn't behind the wheel of a race car. After holding a press conference at the speedway, Kenseth had a question-and-answer session with nearly 200 fans in attendance before heading over to the Paul A. Biane Library in Rancho Cucamonga. There, he dropped off a load of books for the library and read to students from Grapeland Elementary School in the library courtyard.(Fontana Herald News)(10-3-2009)

Crew chief changes at Roush? UPDATE: There is supposedly a meeting planned at Roush Fenway Racing featuring General Manager Robbie Reiser and representatives from Ford. Could crew chief changes be in RFR's future? One rumor circulating NHMS Sunday morning had veteran crew chief Jimmy Fennig connecting with former Roush racer Jeff Burton at RCR. Not so, Fennig said. "After 13 years with Jack, my goal is to retire from Roush Racing," Fennig said. "But I'm getting too old to be on the road." Another scenario places Fennig in a research and development role. Fennig says testing suits him just fine.(FoxSports)(9-21-2009)
UPDATE: Car owner Jack Roush says that any personnel moves among his non-Chase teams will be made after the season since he's focused on the championship with Carl Edwards and Greg Biffle. "I will re-evaluate every person and every position on every team this winter as I do every year,'' Roush said. He said he would make a change on a Chase team immediately if it could help that team contend for the championship.(Roanoke Times)(9-27-2009)

Kenseth carrying R&L colors at Atlanta: The #17 Ford of Matt Kenseth will carry the green and gold colors of R+L carriers this weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway for the Pep Boys Auto 500. It will be the third of four races this season with R+L Carriers as the primary on the #17 Ford also running at Charlotte in May and Daytona in July and is scheduled to run at Auto Club Speedway in Oct. Kenseth has carried the R+L Carriers paint scheme 12 times since 2006. In his 12 previous starts in the #17 R+L Carriers Ford, Kenseth has achieved 12 top-12, 10 top-10, and four top-five finishes.(Roush Fenway Racing), see images of the scheme on my #17 Team Schemes page.(9-5-2009)

Kenseth vs. Kenseth this weekend at Madison International Speedway: UPDATE: While the NASCAR Sprint Cup circuit and #17-Matt Kenseth take a week off from the pressures of an intense points race to make the Chase for the Cup, the Roush Fenway driver will take on a different kind of pressure this weekend at Madison International Speedway; the race for family bragging rights. For the first time ever, Kenseth will go head-to-head on the track against his 16 year-old son, Ross, this Saturday night at Madison International Speedway in Oregon, Wis. The Madison International Speedway weekly Rockweiler Insulation Late Models will compete in a twin 50-lap feature event that will include father vs. son, as the 2009 Daytona 500 winner competes against Ross Kenseth and the other weekly MIS competitors. The Twin 50's will be a points event for the MIS weekly Rockweiler Insulation Late Models. Matt Kenseth, the 2003 Sprint Cup Champion, will compete in a Pathfinder Chassis-prepared Late Model. (Roush Fenway PR), for more information see my Driver appearances page.(8-28-2009)
UPDATE: The competitor in Matt Kenseth felt the joy of victory from winning both 50-lap feature races at Madison International Speedway Sunday. The father in him, felt disappointment for his 16-year-old son, Ross, who finished second and sixth to earn second place overall in the rain-delayed Kenseth vs. Kenseth competition. "I want my son to be happy more than I care about my own happiness," Matt Kenseth said. "I wish he was a little happier after the race, but he still finished second and sixth, he did really well. I know he's a little disappointed because he always wants to win as well, but he did a really good job and it was a pretty fun event.".(Wisconsin State Journal)(8-31-2009)

#17 team has some help at Pocono: #17-Matt Kenseth's Crew chief Drew Blickensderfer has a little extra help this week at Pocono Raceway: two high school students from Minnesota, who are helping to prep the DeWalt Tools Ford. Matthew Ludwig, 17, and Justin Dwyer, 18, were national winners in the Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills competition, emerging from a field of more than 9,700 entries of high school juniors and seniors from all 50 states. Part of their reward is the chance to spend much of a week with Kenseth's team.
They attended a test session at Rockingham, N.C. with Kenseth, toured the Roush Fenway shop in Concord, N.C. with Blickensderfer and will get a taste of all activities at Pocono Raceway, from preparing the car on Friday to being with the team behind pit road on Sunday. "It's my first (NASCAR) race, so to be in the pits at Pocono will be really cool," said Dwyer, who helped replace a front coil spring and adjust the exhaust system on Friday. Ludwig, who worked on body aerodynamics Friday, expressed surprise at the level of hands-on experience being offered. "Actually being able to sit down and talk to the (crew) guys has been great," he said. "They're really down-to-earth. They've been teaching us about what's going on - why they're making certain adjustments." Blickensderfer tried to give the students as much hands-on experience as he could.
"There aren't too many 17-18-year-old kids who can say they got to hang out with Matt Kenseth and his crew," Blickensderfer. "We'll at least let them see everything we're doing and, if we can give them an opportunity to work on the car, it will be a memory that should last a while for them."
Ludwig and Dwyer attend Fairbault High School, a public high school about 40 miles south of Minneapolis. Under tutelage of instructor Mark Lessman, Fairbault has emerged a perennial skills competition contender, winning. two national titles (2003, 2009) and 13 of the last 16 state championships.
"It gets in your blood," says Lessman, who has taught auto mechanics at Fairbault for 25 years. "The one thing I really like is giving the kids scholarship money for school. This is a good avenue for them to help pay for their education."
To win the title, Ludwig and Dwyer needed to correctly diagnose and repair a car with numerous malfunctions, including the starter, flow sensor, air conditioning system, power windows and lights. The winners got all the bugs out in 42 minutes, 51 seconds and were one of four state champions to complete the test without demerits.
All entrants completed an on-line exam with the highest scorers advancing to their state's hands-on competition. That state's champion competed in the national finals in Dearborn, Mich., with results of a 100-question written exam and the hands-on competition combined to determine the national champion.
All told, $10.7 million in scholarships were offered through the program. The top-10 national finalists received full and partial scholarships from some of the leading automotive technology institutions in the country. In addition, the high schools of the top 15 teams earned a Ford Edge, Taurus or Fusion for training purposes in their automotive technology departments.
The top-15 teams in the 2009 Ford/AAA Student Auto Skills National Finals:
1. Minnesota (Justin Dwyer, Matthew Ludwig) Faribault High School, Faribault, Minn., instructed by Mark Lessman;
2. Colorado (Charles Duran, Dylan Keyes) Doherty High School, Colorado Springs, instructed by Brad Wheaton;
3. Alabama (Zach Evans, Jared Hudson) Albert P Brewer High School, Somerville, Ala., instructed by Robert Bryson;
4. Texas (Juan Correa, Andrew McConnell) Birdville Career Center, Halton City, Texas, instructed by Olin R. Harrington;
5. California (Eric Reed, Doug Rinnell) San Luis Obispo High School, San Luis Obispo, Calif., instructed by Jeff Lehmkuhl;
6. New York (Mike Palladino, Andrew Matthys) Wayne Tech & Career Center, Williamson, N.Y., instructed by Chet Kuhn;
7. Kansas (Joseph Vanderputten, Dillon Percival) Kaw Area Tech School, Topeka, Kansas, instructed by Robert Oswald;
8. Indiana (Jarrett Coberly, Nicholas Vogler) Pike Central High School, Petersburg, Ind., instructed by Buddy Lee;
9. Arkansas (Brandon & Nolan Hildalgo - twin brothers) Jacksonville High School, Jacksonville, Ark., instructed by Shawn Poindexte;
10. Iowa (Cody Gudenkauf, Michael Hermsen) West Delaware High School Manchester, Iowa, instructed by Jason Guyer;
11. Kentucky (Jesse Bardis, Austin White) Shelby Co Area Tech Center, Shelbyville, Ky., instructed by Bruce Edwards;
12. Wisconsin (Kieron Kohlmann, Jonathan Ramczyk) Washington Park High School, Racine, Wis., instructed by David Dixon;
13. Oklahoma (Jeffrey Dill, Jack Gibson) Eastern Oklahoma Co Tech Center, Choctaw, Okla., instructed by Jim LaFevers;
14. Hawaii (Chester Lee Coloma, Edler Espiritu) Maui High School, Kahului, Hawaii. instructed by Shannon Rowe;
15. Wyoming (Alfred Hefenieder, Jesse Hernandez) Worland High School, Worland, Wy., instructed by Mike Sapp.
(USA Today)(8-2-2009)

DeWalt will not return to the #17 team in 2010 UPDATE new sponsor?: Roush Fenway Racing was informed today that DeWalt Power Tools will not renew its sponsorship of Matt Kenseth and the #17 team for the 2010 NASCAR season. "We would like to thank DeWalt for serving as a great partner for the past 10 years," said Roush Fenway President Geoff Smith. "During that time we have seen great success for both their company and marketing program, as well as with Matt on the race track. They will always be remembered and honored as the sponsor of Jack Roush's first Sprint Cup Championship team. Despite this success - in the face of the significant world-wide economic decline in the construction industry - DeWalt's decision to not return is not a great surprise to us. Fortunately, we have several great companies interested in taking over and we expect to begin finalizing those sponsorship arrangements in the very near future. All of us at Roush Fenway Racing remain committed to keeping the #17 DeWalt car running up front, winning races and to put them in a position to contend for a second championship this season."(Roush Fenway Racing)(7-23-2009)
UPDATE: hearing that Roush Fenway Racing will announce sometime this week that Crown Royal will sponsor the #17 Ford of Matt Kenseth for approximately 18 races in 2010, replacing DeWalt. The other 18 races will probably be 2-3 other sponsors.(7-27-2009)

Roush's Smith talks about 2010 plans: Sunday on "The SIRIUS NASCAR Radio Pre-Race Show", SIRIUS XM's Claire B. Lang spoke with Roush Fenway Racing president Geoff Smith about the possible changes to the team's roster of drivers before next season.
Geoff Smith: "If you're asking about our team plans for 2010, we're settled that Carl Edwards and Aflac, Greg Biffle with 3M, and David Ragan with UPS will be staying put and that sponsorship is going to kind of determine whether or not the #17 or the #26 are going to have to be the teams we shut down and move, if we can."
Smith: "There are difficulties. You just can't assume that a team can transfer intact just because you want it to. There are sponsors that get to vote as to what organization they're going to sponsor. So we have to work through that, which is what I've been saying. I expect, now that the DeWalt cloud has been removed, we're going to move very quickly to lock in the sponsorship and then that sponsorship will determine [whether] the #17 stays or goes."
Host, Claire B. Lang: "Meaning that we could see a past champion, Matt Kenseth, moving?"
Smith: "It all depends on the sponsorships. Our objective is to keep both of those teams (the #17 and the #26) in the Ford Motor Company community. We're hoping that we don't have to keep one and then lose one out of the Ford community entirely. So if we can keep them both in the [Ford] community by shuffling the #17 we would do that. Pretty unlikely that Matt Kenseth or the #17 will move at this point."
(SIRIUS NASCAR Radio)(7-27-2009)

Kenseth wins at Slinger: Matt Kenseth held off a hard charging Eric Fransen to capture the win in the 200-lap 30th Annual Miller Lite Nationals presented by SuperSeal Wednesday night at the Slinger Super Speedway, his record-setting fifth overall victory in the prestigious super late model event. Not to be outdone, son Ross Kenseth followed up his father's performance by scoring his first Slinger Speedway win in the 35-lap late model main event.(7-23-2009)

2008 Sponsor Schedule, DeWalt is the sponsor unless noted:

Races [1] that Disk Network is scheduled to be the primary sponsor:
Bristol - March 16

Races [3] that USG Sheetrock is scheduled to be the primary sponsor:
Las Vegas - Mar 2
Chicago - July 12
Atlanta - Oct 26

Races [4] that Carhartt is scheduled to be the primary sponsor:
California - Feb 24
Michigan - June 15
New Hampshire - June 29
Charlotte - Oct 13

Races [4] that R+L Carriers is scheduled to be the primary sponsor:
Lowe's Motor Speedway - May 25
Daytona - July 5
California - Oct 31
Martinsville - Oct 19

Races [4] that DeWalt NANO is scheduled to be the primary sponsor::
Phoenix [4/12];
Richmond [5/3];
Darlington [5/10];
All-Star Race [5/17];
supposedly this scheme has been dropped and will not run at the two final races
Bristol [8/23];
Richmond [9/6]