DARLINGTON, S.C. - Michael Waltrip Racing officials confirmed today that Dale Jarrett has been named driver of the team's second Toyota entry in the Nextel Cup Series beginning in 2007.
"When we began building Michael Waltrip Racing, I knew the key to success was bringing in quality people," Waltrip said in a news release, adding that "by hiring Dale, we have yet another example of the importance we are placing on securing first-rate individuals for our program."
Jarrett has 32 Cup victories and won the championship in 1999. He leaves Robert Yates Racing and manufacturer Ford at the end of this season.
"My tenure at Robert Yates Racing has been extremely important to me, my family and my career," Jarrett said in a statement. "We accomplished a lot together during the past 12 years and I am thankful to Robert and everyone at RYR and Ford Motor Company for the opportunities they afforded me and the success we have all shared.
"This was a very difficult decision. I feel this is a great opportunity for me to take on a new challenge and what they are building at Michael Waltrip Racing fits my plans for the future."
No sponsor was announced for Jarrett. Waltrip also will drive a Toyota for the team with sponsorship from NAPA.
