Apache Junction, Arizona — Today, Chip Ganassi’s racing operation confirmed a report that surfaced during the weekend. Jimmy Spencer is going to get the boot at the end of the 2003 season.
When trying to confirm the rumor at Rockingham, N.C., teamfordracing.com was told, “Spencer’s in the car until we say otherwise.” That time came, yesterday, when Ganassi, via a written press release, said, "When we first made this deal, Jimmy and I agreed about what would happen if the results were not what either of us were happy with, obviously, both of us are not happy with the results.
“I feel bad we weren't able to get the most out of our relationship, but I'm sure I'll remain friends with Jimmy. We all know he's a colorful character that no one can help but enjoy being around. No one can deny Jimmy has a lot of energy and excitement about him."
Spencer’s car sits 25th in NASCAR Winston Cup championship points following the Rockingham event while the sister No. 40 car sits third. The driver change is to take place at the end of the year, but with Spencer involved don’t be surprised if that schedule accelerates mightily.
The driver rumored to replace Spencer in ‘03 is Bobby Hamilton.
Other rumors indicate that longtime Travis Carter crew chief, Donnie Wingo, would join the Ganassi’s three-car stable to wrench Jamie McMurray’s Dodge in 2003.
