Rousch Racing loses sponsorship

NASCAR outfit Roush Racing has been dealt a pre-season blow following the withdrawal of a major sponsor

Jan 5, 2000, 11:12 AM

TV Guide has ended its link with the No.16 Ford Tauruses driven by Kevin Lepage for the 2000 Winston Cup Series.

Team owner Jack Roush said the team would start next month's season opener at Daytona still seeking a primary sponsor.

NASCAR Speedweeks 2000 begins on February 9, with practice for the Daytona 500 beginning on Friday February 11.

'We can't let a team with this amount of talent and chemistry escape,' Roush said.

'Once we got the right team organized around him, and Kevin got some more grounding in Winston Cup competition, the results began to come - 5th at Darlington, the Pole at Atlanta, not to mention being one decision away from a top-3 finish at Talladega.

'With the consolidation of the No. 17, No. 97 and No. 16 to Charlotte this team will have improved access to facilities, equipment, people and resources. We expect the No. 16 to be immediately successful.'