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Labonte joins Hall of Fame Racing

Bobby Labonte will drive the No.96 Hall of Fame Ford in the 2009 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series

The former Sprint Cup and Nationwide Series champion had been linked with a drive at Earnhardt Ganassi Racing, but has inked a deal to drive for HOF. His car will be run by the Yates Racing arm of the organisation.

Labonte's deal comes with sponsorship from Ask.com, which has also signed a deal with NASCAR to become an official partner fo the series. The Internet search engine will be a new sponsor to the sport in a time when most companies are scaling back their marketing efforts.

"I'm excited to be part of what Ask.com is bringing to our sport," said Labonte. "In a time like this, it's great to see a sponsor come in with technology and ideas that will help all of the competitors in NASCAR and enhance the experience for all of our fans, no matter which driver or team they cheer for."

The 44-year-old announced he was leaving Petty Enterprises in December and will drive a Ford for the first time since his debut season in Cup in 1993 when he was competing for Bill Davis Racing.

"With our new Yates partnership and having a true champion and class person in Bobby Labonte behind the wheel, we're expecting great things on the race track," said Hall of Fame team owner Tom Garfinkel.

Yates Racing have yet to reveal which cars the team's other drivers will race this season, though an official announcement is expected soon.

Labonte's new ride indicated that Earnhardt Ganassi Racing may not field the No.41 car full-time this season, as it was believed that the team was his preferred option for 2009.

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