Ford steps down as Jarrett's crew chief

CHARLOTTE, N.C -- Robert Yates Racing announced late Monday afternoon that, after 18 months in the position, Mike Ford has resigned as crew chief for driver Dale Jarrett.

"Mike made this decision based on what was in the best interest for himself and for his family," said Eddie D'Hondt, general manager for RYR. "We obviously wish him the best in his future endeavors."

Mike Ford Credit: Autostock

Jarrett's No. 88 UPS Ford is 14th in the Nextel Cup standings after last Saturday's 11th race of the season. Earlier this season Jarrett won his first Bud Pole since Michigan in the summer of 2002.

Jarrett has one top-five and two top-10 finishes this year, with a best finish of fifth at Bristol.

Last season, Ford and Jarrett's first complete year together, Jarrett improved 11 positions in the standings, to 15th from 26th in 2003, with six top-five and 14 top-10 finishes.

Ford joined Jarrett at Yates Racing in November 2003. RYR has no definite timetable to replace Ford as the teams head to this weekend's Nextel All-Star Challenge at Lowe's Motor Speedway.

The next points race is May 29 at Lowe's, the Coca-Cola 600.

"We are actively pursuing someone to replace (Ford)," D'Hondt said. "Until we find the right individual for the job, we will fill the role in-house on an interim basis."