Money no factor in Jarrett's move

The 1999 Nextel Cup champion agreed a two-year deal this weekend to race for Michael Waltrip Racing in 2007 and 2008, in what he says will be the final two years of his career.

Michael Waltrip Racing is one of three teams Toyota are supplying with Camry models in next year's Nextel Cup.

"There is loads of stuff out there that I came here because I was getting paid millions and millions of dollars and Toyota dealerships here and there," Jarrett said.

"It is just funny to see what people think and how things get started. I know there is a value for some things that I have being a former champion, so all of those things added up to a lot.

"The reason I am doing this is not about money. This is to help Michael. I told my wife that this was going to be one of the biggest things to happen in NASCAR, for a driver with a new manufacturer to start his own organization."

The deal means that Jarrett ends his 12-year relationship with Ford team Robert Yates Racing, with whom he has scored all but three of his Cup victories.

Director of Ford Racing Technology Dan Davis reacted strongly to Jarrett's decision.

"We're obviously not happy Dale is leaving Robert Yates Racing because he's been a champion and a great ambassador for Ford fans," Davis said. "We understand his decision, but we are disappointed.

"Toyota is going to have its work cut out for them competing in Nextel Cup, no matter how much they plan on spending.  Our plan is to keep winning races and championships."