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By Tim Packman and Dave Rodman, Turner Sports Interactive
October 30, 2002
3:12 PM EST (2012 GMT)
Longtime Rudd chief could be headed to Gibbs
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| Michael McSwain could be headed to Joe Gibbs Racing to work with Bobby Labonte. Credit: Autostock |
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CONCORD, N.C. -- Just a few days after reportedly interviewing with Joe Gibbs Racing about becoming crew chief on the No. 18 Pontiac for them, Michael "Fatback" McSwain has been released from Robert Yates Racing.
McSwain, who had been the crew chief for Ricky Rudd and the No. 28 Havoline Ford since 1999, was released from his contract on Wednesday.
The move, the latest by Yates in a progression that has included purging himself of driver Ricky Rudd and Yates' longtime sponsor Chevron/Texaco, frees McSwain to pursue other career options.
Yates had previously said that, due to McSwain's contract, which ran through next season, he did not anticipate him leaving.
"We've negotiated a release for Michael from his contract," said team owner Robert Yates. "This will allow him to pursue other opportunities and allow us to look at our options for the future. We wish him the best in his future endeavors."
Fox named as Rudd's crew chief for Rockingham
For this weekend's race at North Carolina Speedway, car chief Raymond Fox will take over the crew chief duties for the No. 28 Ford.
"We look forward to going to Rockingham and I know Raymond will do a good job for us this weekend," Yates said.
Under McSwain's leadership, Rudd won three races and was in the thick of the championship battle until the latter part of the season. Rudd is currently 10th in points with one victory, eight top-five and 12 top-10 finishes.
Yates previously announced that Elliott Sadler would drive a No. 38 M&M's Ford for him next season, replacing Rudd's program.
Rudd will drive the Wood Brothers' No. 21 Motorcraft Ford next year.
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