Sanctioning Body News - Dodge To Leave NASCAR

DAYTONA BEACH, Aug. 7, 2012: “Dodge has been a great partner to NASCAR for many years, and they have been part of numerous memorable moments throughout our history,” said NASCAR Chairman and CEO Brian France. “They made a business decision not to return in 2013, as they did in 1977 before returning in 2001. We wish them well and hope they again will choose to return to NASCAR at a later date.

“Our fans have a passion for cars and emotional connections to particular manufacturers, and that’s why in 2013 we will debut new race car designs that are modeled after each manufacturer’s production cars. This change is a direct result of feedback from our fans, who are the most brand loyal in all of sports.”

NASCAR's statement is in response to comments made by Dodge Motorsport's CEO Ralph Gilles Tuesday, "Following our thorough five month process weighing all options in the sport, we have decided to withdraw from NASCAR racing."