Burton Not Returning To RCR In 2014
WELCOME, N.C. (AP) Jeff Burton will not return to Richard Childress Racing for the 2014 season.
Burton made the announcement Wednesday, ending his relationship with RCR that dates to the 2005 season. Burton hasn't won since 2008 and is 22nd in the Sprint Cup standings this season.
RCR says a new driver for the No. 31 Chevrolet will be announced at a later date. RCR also fields teams for Paul Menard and Kevin Harvick, who is leaving after this season to join Stewart-Haas Racing.
The 46-year-old Burton has four of his 21 career Cup victories with RCR.
"I strongly believe in the No. 31 team as to what we can achieve this year, and for the team in seasons to follow," Burton said. "However, the financial realities for next year were obvious to both Richard and me. So, we talked about it and both made the decision to make this move for the team's future."
Childress thanked Burton for his integral role in the organization.
"Jeff has been nothing but a professional driver, an asset to RCR and a great person for our organization since coming on board in 2005," he said. "We intend to finish out 2013 in a strong way and I look forward to the possibility of Jeff still being part of RCR in the near future, just not driving the No. 31 car. I have been watching his son, Harrison, and the success he's having. Hopefully, we can have another Burton in one of our cars someday."
Ryan Newman, out of a job at SHR, could land at Richard Childress Racing if a sponsorship deal comes through.
