Richard Petty Motorsports says they are committed to being a two car team, despite losing driver Marcos Ambrose and sponsors Stanley and Dewalt from the No. 9 car. / Photo: NASCAR Via Getty Images
CHARLOTTE, NC (AP) - Richard Petty Motorsports insisted Wednesday it is committed to running two cars in 2015 despite losing driver Marcos Ambrose and primary sponsor Stanley in the span of five days.<br />
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Ambrose said last weekend he is returning to his native Australia and will run V8 Supercars for Roger Penske. His sponsor, Stanley, said Wednesday it is moving to Joe Gibbs Racing to sponsor Carl Edwards for 12 races. Stanley brand DeWalt will sponsor Matt Kenseth for six races.<br />
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"We are excited to build new partnerships on the No. 9 team," said Brian Moffitt, president and CEO of Richard Petty Motorsports. "We have a vision that our ownership group and sponsors support and believe in. We have built upon that vision in two short years to become championship eligible. It's that belief that will help us support the No. 9 team."<br />
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Aric Almirola this season qualified for the Chase for the Sprint Cup championship in RPM's No. 43 Ford. The team is looking for a driver and sponsor to take over the No. 9 Ford. RPM said it will continue its relationship with current manufacturer partner Ford Racing and continue its services contract with Roush Fenway Racing and Roush Yates Engines.<br />
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Twisted Tea Brewing Co. will continue its primary sponsorship of the No. 9 team in 2015 as the RPM marketing and new business team continues various discussions with several companies, the team said.<br />
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"We're proud of our relationship with Richard Petty Motorsports and feel they have done a great job and are competitive every weekend as evident by making the Chase this season," said Jamie Allison, director of Ford Racing. "Both the No. 9 and No. 43 teams have shown strength throughout this season and we expect that will only continue next season and beyond."
