Advance Auto Parts ending NHRA run
Monday, Nov. 02, 2009
Getty Images
CONCORD, NC - SEPTEMBER 20: Cruz Pedregon, driver of the Advance Auto Parts Toyota funny car leaves the starting line during the NHRA Carolinas Nationals on September 20, 2009 at Zmax Dragway in Concord, North Carolina. (Photo by Rusty Jarrett/Getty Images)
Getty Images for NASCAR
CONCORD, NC - SEPTEMBER 18: Cruz Pedregon, driver of the Advance Auto Parts Toyota funny car drives during first round qualifying for the NHRA Carolinas Nationals on September 18, 2009 at Zmax Dragway in Concord, North Carolina. (Photo by Rusty Jarrett/Getty Images for NASCAR)
ROANOKE, Va. – Advance Auto Parts Inc. said Friday that it will not renew its partnership with National Hot Rod Association driver Cruz Pedregon and that its contract with his team will end on Dec. 31.
The auto parts retailer said the decision was made as part of a review of its marketing efforts. The company said it will continue to focus its marketing efforts on building its do-it-yourself business and supporting the growth of its commercial business.
Pedregon said his team is searching for a replacement sponsor in hopes of being able to compete next season.
Founded in 1951, the Glendora, Calif.-based NHRA bills itself as the world's largest drag racing organization.
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