Mears to leave Hendrick at year-end

The Californian, who is in his second year with the team, was expected to have a much better season when he was moved from the No. 25 to the No. 5 team, where Kyle Busch had been for three seasons scoring four victories.

Instead, Mears currently runs in 24th place in the standings and far from his other teammates, who are all inside the top 12. His best results this season only came last weekend at Sonoma where he finished in fifth place.

"We've put a ton of emphasis on the No. 5 program," team owner Rick Hendrick said in a statement. "It's been a total team effort, and Casey has worked as hard as anyone to help us improve. We've tested more than we ever have, but the results just haven't come.

"None of us, Casey included, have been satisfied with the situation this season. But he's confident there are other options out there for him in 2009, and we feel like Hendrick Motorsports will have some opportunities, too."

The team plan to run Mears until the end of the season despite the early announcement, which is set to have a key effect in the driver market as there are a number of seats now available at two of the top teams.

"I know the effort has been there, but we haven't had the finishes to show for it," said Mears. "I've never tested this much or put more energy into racing. But for whatever reason, we just haven't been able to make it click. It's certainly not for lack of dedication on anyone's part.

"I'll talk to people about opportunities and get my 2009 plans wrapped up soon, but I'm also focused on the next 20 races and finishing 2008 on a positive note. We ran well the second half last year, and I know we can do it again. I want to close this season the right way."

Hendrick Motorsports have not announced who will replace Mears next year in the No. 5 car but NASCAR veteran Mark Martin has been linked to being the leading candidate to take over the seat.