ARCHDALE, North Carolina (Ticker) -- Bobby Labonte is no longer
a member of Petty Enterprises.
The 2000 NASCAR Winston Cup champion parted ways with the
flagging race team Thursday, leaving him without a ride for
2009.
Labonte, who has 21 career victories in NASCAR's top series, had
been the driver of Petty's flagship No. 43 Dodge for the past
three seasons - the car made famous by Richard Petty.
"Moving forward, I'm very anxious to prepare for the 2009
season," Labonte said. "I do not currently have a contract with
any other team for 2009, but I am ready to explore all
opportunities and form the next partnership in my career.
"I'll continue to keep these matters private and will make the
appropriate announcement and comments when my future plans are
confirmed. I appreciate everyone's continued support."
Labonte signed a four-year extension with partial ownership at
Petty Enterprises in June when Boston Ventures purchased
majority ownership in the team. But the organization has not
found a sponsor to replace General Mills, which is moving to
Richard Childress Racing next season, as the primary sponsor for
the No. 43 Dodge.
Petty Enterprises has been in negotiations with Gillett Evernham
regarding a possible merger into a four-car team.
If that merger does not happen, Petty Enterprises plans to field
the No. 43 as a single-car team for the 2009 season. There is no
word on who would drive the car.
"In over 15 years of racing in the Sprint Cup Series, I can't
remember a time when the sport's landscape looks as it does
today," Labonte said. "Saying that, Petty Enterprises and I had
serious and very sincere discussions about what was best for
myself and everyone involved at Petty Enterprises moving
forward."
"These discussions culminated with us agreeing that moving in a
separate direction will be the greatest way to reach our end
goals. It was by no means an easy decision."
One potential landing spot for Labonte is the newly formed
Earnhardt Ganassi Racing team.