MMM replace Lepage with Hamilton Jr

The #4 Kodak-backed Chevrolet Monte Carlo started the year with Robby Gordon behind the wheel, but he was fired to make way for Kevin Lepage. But now Lepage has been shown the door too, giving Busch Grand National series star Hamilton Jr a Winston Cup drive for the rest of the year, with the exception of the Martinsville race later this month.

Hamilton Jr has three Winston Cup Series starts to his name this season at Charlotte, Dover and Michigan, where he subbed for the injured Joe Nemechek.

"I really do not know what happened between Larry and the other driver," said Hamilton Jr. "It is an opportunity for me to get into the #4 car so I can get seat time in Winston Cup. Morgan-McClure have helped me so much in ARCA. They let me borrow parts and loaned out engines to me. I am glad to step in and help Larry and the guys out.

"This will turn out to be a win-win situation for everyone involved. Not only will I gain experience in Winston Cup, I will accumulate more time on the tracks I race the #26 [Busch] car on. Last year I practiced at Homestead in a Cup car, got out of it and went and sat on the pole in the Busch car. It really helps to be able gain knowledge from both divisions. We are hoping to put together a few good runs for the Kodak team. It is a great opportunity and we want to make the most of it."