Former NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Champion to race for team at select races
Phoenix Racing formally announced today that Bobby Labonte will drive a second car for the team in the Daytona 500 on February 23, 2014 at Daytona International Speedway. The move reunites Phoenix Racing chairman emeritus, James Finch, with the 2000 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series champion, Bobby Labonte. Labonte drove for Phoenix Racing for 13 races in the No. 09 in 2010 and for one race at Michigan International Speedway in 2013 in the No. 51.
Harry Scott, Jr., who purchased the team from Finch in 2013, said, “James continues to be a valuable part of our team and when he came up with the idea of running Bobby in a second car, I jumped at the opportunity to bring him back into the fold. Bobby is a veteran driver that can also provide valuable insight and leadership for Phoenix Racing.”
“I’m thrilled to be headed back to Daytona with Bobby Labonte,” said Finch. “I thank Harry Scott for this opportunity. He knew I would have to be weaned off racing, I can’t quit cold turkey.”
“I am grateful and excited to return to Daytona with Phoenix Racing,” said Labonte. “The Daytona 500 is obviously a special event for everyone involved in the sport. I can’t wait to get back in the car for my 22nd Daytona 500.”
Labonte, who will run a number of races for Phoenix Racing has won 21 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series races in his career that started in 1991. During that time Labonte scored 115 Top 5s and 203 Top 10s. In 1990 Labonte was named the NASCAR Nationwide Series Most Popular Driver. He captured the NASCAR Nationwide Series championship a year later in 1991.
The team will provide additional information in the coming weeks about which car number will be entered, the crew chief for the team and sponsors supporting the car.
About Phoenix Racing
Phoenix Racing, which was established in 1989, is owned and operated by Harry Scott, Jr. and competes in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series. Scott purchased the team from long-time owner James Finch in September 2013. His vision is to build a championship contender in due time by developing talented young drivers, partnering with dedicated sponsors and competing hard every week.
