Been told the #40 Chip Ganassi Nationwide team was shut down yesterday. Crew chief Brad Parrott, a majority of the road crew and several shop personnel were released. Ganassi Racing is reportedly helping Fastenal find an new team to move to. No word on the status of driver Bryan Clauson.(12-10-2008)
UPDATE: The newly merged Earnhardt Ganassi Racing team has shut down its Nationwide Series operation, driver Bryan Clauson and former crew chief Brad Parrott confirmed Wednesday. Clauson remains under contract with the team but said Wednesday his plans for 2009 are unknown. Clauson remains under contract with the team but said Wednesday his plans for 2009 are unknown. Parrott has talked to two owners who want to bring him and his crewmen together, pending sponsorship. A source said the Fastenal sponsorship is likely moving to another NASCAR team, precipitating the shutdown of Earnhardt Ganassis Nationwide operation.Another source said part of Fastenal’s sponsorship included Dodge money, but since Dodge won’t be with the team next year – Earnhardt Ganassi is rumored to be switching to Chevrolet – the team would not have been able to make the manufacturer switch and run a partial season with the amount of money Fastenal was now offering.(Scene Daily)(12-10-2008)
