Roush renews Ford contract

Jack Roush's team has been racing Fords for 20 years in the Sprint Cup series, dating back to 1988 when he fielded a single-car operation for Mark Martin. Since then, the team has grown to become the leading Ford team, winning back-to-back championships in 2003 and 2004.

The Ford Motor Company announced on Tuesday that they have agreed in principle to a multi-year agreement with the team, that will see them continue running Fords in all three of NASCAR's major series.

"Roush Fenway Racing is synonymous with Ford, especially when it comes to motorsports, so we're thrilled that we are going to continue our partnership for the foreseeable future," said Brian Wolfe, director of Ford Racing Technology.

"Everybody knows that the auto industry in this country is facing some difficult times, but the loyalty and commitment Jack and his entire organization have shown us throughout these past few months has been inspiring.

"We're grateful to have long-term relationships like this and look forward to continued success winning races and championships together."

Roush Fenway Racing has three of their five drivers in this year's Chase for the Sprint Cup. Greg Biffle won the first two races of the series' playoff and ranks second in the standing, while Carl Edwards is fourth just a few points behind.

"I'm proud to continue Roush Fenway's long-standing partnership with Ford Motor Company," said Roush. "It's great to see Ford's continued commitment to not just Roush Fenway, but the great sport of racing.

"We have won championships and many races together over the last 20 years and we certainly look forward to adding to those numbers across NASCAR's top three series in the years to come."

The manufacturer announced also that they will also continue to support Yates Racing and Wood Brothers Racing in the Sprint Cup Series next year, although they have cut back on their overall investment in NASCAR as a result of company policies.

They will also continue to support their Nationwide and Craftsman Truck Series teams with contingency programs and engineering assistance, including continued technical support of engine development through Roush Yates Engines. However, Ford will stop their financial support for teams in both the two series from next year.