Yates seeking Jarrett replacement

Jarrett has announced that he will end his 12-year-association with the team at the end of this season to finish his career with Michael Waltrip Racing's Toyota effort.

Doug Yates admits he is sad to see Jarrett leave the team, but is already looking to the future.

"They made him an offer he couldn't refuse," Yates said. "That part doesn't surprise me because Toyota's history and background is throwing a lot of money around and here is one of those examples.  It is what it is.

"I want to make sure that everybody knows that we are fully committed to Dale Jarrett and UPS and Ford in carrying this thing out to the end of the year. 

"I think what will happen is now that Dale has made his announcement, people are going to realise that the 88 is a good seat with a good car number, good sponsor and good history.  I think that will create some awareness. 

"We've been talking to some people, but we never started talking to anyone until Dale made his decision."

Yates is also hoping that title sponsor UPS stays on the car despite Jarrett's defection.

"As of today, UPS has to make a decision," he added. "We wish more than anything that UPS will stay with us.  We've had a great six-year history together and feel like we can carry that on in the future and bring along the next star to drive the truck, but that's their decision. 

"That's a business decision for them and we'll know in the near future where they're going to be. Whether they're here or not, we're committed to the future of Robert Yates Racing and making it strong."