Benson Released UPDATE: Roush Racing announced today that it has entered into a new sponsorship agreement beginning next year under which General Mills has been granted sponsorship rights for all Roush Racing teams in NASCAR Winston Cup, Busch Grand National, and Craftsman Truck competition. In addition, Roush also announced that Johnny Benson, driver of the #26 Cheerios Ford Taurus, has been released from his contract. These changes in sponsorship status are the result of a process initiated several weeks ago by Roush Racing and Johnny Benson, and ultimately endorsed by all parties. In addition, Benson will continue his role as a spokesman for General Mills products. Roush Racing does not have a primary sponsor under contract to operate the #26 program in 2000, but will continue its search for sponsorship to keep the team in place. Roush Racing has, however, agreed to release Benson from his contract to allow him to find another ride for next season( Johnny Benson Fan Club PR ) — UPDATE: The announcement put to rest months of speculation concerning Benson’s future with the team. The Michigan driver is expected to be a leading candidate to take over the #28 Texaco-Havoline Ford Taurus currently driven by Kenny Irwin( TNN Motorsports Site )
