Jeff Gordon will have Ray Evernham as his crew chief for the rest of the year, but other crew members will take on added responsibility and work with the driver, Hendrick Motorsports sources say. Evernham is tied to the team by a contract that owner Rick Hendrick has refused to relinquish. In fact, sources say that if Evernham can make his move to owning a 2001 Chrysler team, some sort of contract buyout would be required. Evernham has been open about his desire to work in a different capacity and spend more time with his family. Without the management move in Hendrick, he would have no career change without leaving the company. While he is exploring a variety of options, he does have a contract through 2006. The decision concerning his future may not be Evernhams. Reportedly it has been made by Rick Hendrick. Mechanic Brian Whitesell, the heir apparent to Gordons team, is set to work with the driver for the rest of the season. Evernham remains the official crew chief, but Whitesell is said to be more actively involved in qualifying and race decisions. Yesterday at track, Whitesell and Evernham were on the radio with Gordon( Times-Dispatch )
