Newman to part company with Penske

The 30-year-old, who began his NASCAR career with Penske back in 2000, has confirmed that he is considering joining Haas-Stewart racing now that his friend Tony Stewart has bought a 50% stake in the team.

"Driving for Tony's team is an option," Newman told NASCAR.com. "He has a seat, so it is an option.

"The most important thing to me is performance," he said.

"Winning the championship, achieving the goals outside of what I've done, which is a lot of poles and wins and winning the Daytona 500. So there are still a lot of things out there for me to achieve."

Newman's former crew chief Matt Borland, with whom he won 12 races and 37 pole positions, earning himself the nickname of 'The Rocket', is currently director of competition at Haas.

"Having a friend over there is something to consider," Newman said.

"I appreciate Penske Racing and all they have done for me, but more importantly, I appreciate their friendship and what they have done for my career," added Newman who is currently 16th in the standings having failed to win a race since the season opener.

"I would also like to thank all of the sponsors, especially Alltel, who have supported me."

Penske said they will announce a replacement driver for the No.12 Alltel Dodge in the near future.