Andy Petree, executive vice president of Richard Childress Racing and former championship crew chief, has retired, the organization announced Tuesday.
Keith Rodden will serve as interim competition director at Richard Childress Racing.
“I am incredibly grateful to Richard Childress for the impact he has had on my career, as well as the wonderful memories and on-track success we have enjoyed together,” Petree said in a team statement. “Although my daily involvement with RCR is changing, I will always be a fan and supporter of everyone in Welcome, North Carolina. I wish RCR the best for the rest of this season and beyond.”
Chase Briscoe will take over the position being vacated by Martin Truex Jr. after this season.
Petree first joined RCR in 1993 as crew chief for Dale Earnhardt’s team. Petree helped Earnhardt win the Cup title in 1993 and 1994, the sixth and seventh series championships for the Hall of Fame driver.
Petree later formed his own racing team, winning twice before closing it after the 2003 season. He later rejoined Richard Childress Racing. He most recently led RCR’s racing team as executive vice president.
Kyle Busch enters New Hampshire this weekend 31 points below the playoff cut line.
“Andy Petree has been a great supporter of RCR for many years and we wish him success in the future,” Richard Childress, president and CEO of Richard Childress Racing, said in a team statement. “Our organization won two championships with Andy during his first stint at RCR, we made the NASCAR playoffs and won races with him during his most recent tenure. I am grateful for his contributions to the team, leadership and friendship over the years. Keith Rodden has a big role to fill as interim competition director, but I know his passion for motorsports and dedication will help drive RCR during a key time for our organization.”
Petree leaves because both Richard Childress Racing Cup cars are out of a playoff spot. Kyle Busch is on a 39-race winless streak and is 45 points below the playoff cut line with eight races remaining in the regular season. Austin Dillon is 197 points below the playoff cut line.
In the Xfinity Series, RCR drivers Austin Hill and Jesse Love have clinched a playoff spot. Hill has two wins and Love has one.
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