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CUP: Labonte To Replace Waltrip On Road Courses
Written by: Tom Jensen   
06/11/2007 - 07:00 PM
Harrisburg, N.C.
 
Labonte: road course ringer for Waltrip. (LAT photo) ยป More Photos


After failing to qualify for 12 of the first 14 NASCAR Nextel Cup races this season, Michael Waltrip will turn over his No. 55 Toyota Camry to Terry Labonte for upcoming road course races at Infineon Raceway and Watkins Glen International.

Because he is a past NASCAR Nextel Cup Champion, Labonte's presence guarantees the No. 55 will make both races, as Labonte can use up to six past-champion's provisionals this season.

"It's not an easy decision for me to remove myself from the car, but I know it is for the betterment of our whole program," said Waltrip in a statement released Tuesday. "I know Terry's experience and road race savvy will breathe a breath of fresh air into my young NAPA team."

Labonte has had much success at road course tracks finishing third at Infineon Raceway last year and has six top-10 finishes at Watkins
Glen International.

"To put Terry in the car is a reflection of the big picture we are trying to establish with this NAPA Racing team and I know this will be a spark this team needs," Waltrip said. "I look forward to watching the NAPA team compete and learning more about all the MWR cars from a different perspective, exclusively as an owner."

Waltrip's sponsor, NAPA Auto Parts, supports his decision. "NAPA appreciates and respects Michael's dedication to move our racing program forward and regain our on-track competitive edge," said NAPA President Bob Susor. "We thank him for his efforts and dedication to NAPA and welcome the addition of NASCAR champion Terry Labonte to the NAPA family for these road-course events."

Waltrip will return to the No. 55 for the Lenox Industrial Tool 300 on July 1st at New Hampshire International Speedway.