Waltrip signs for Bill Davis.

Michael Waltrip will take current sponsor NAPA with him in 2006 as he leaves Dale Earnhardt Inc after five years with the team, with Bill Davis Racing scoring something of a coup by securing Waltrip's services for the 2006 season.

Waltrip and NAPA will join current BDR driver Scott Wimmer in an expanded line-up next year as Davis attempts to run a two car Nextel Cup effort for the first time since 2003.

Although Davis won the 2002 Daytona 500 with driver Ward Burton, the team has not been a front running outfit since losing its factory support from Dodge part way through last season.

"I like the way Bill does business and he has created a strong organisation," explained Waltrip, who will probably run the #23 plate next year. "NAPA and I look forward to continuing our winning ways at Bill Davis Racing on the track, as well as extending our successful marketing efforts off the track."

Since joining DEI, Waltrip and NAPA have become one of the most recognisable driver/sponsor combinations on the Nextel Cup tour. While Robby Gordon may disagree, Waltrip is also one of the most popular drivers on the tour.

"Teaming with Dale Earnhardt, Inc. and Dale [Earnhardt] Jr. for the past five years has been the highlight of my NASCAR Cup career to date," continued Waltrip. "I look toward my future with NAPA and BDR with gratitude to DEI for the memories and friendships I have formed."

"It is no secret that our association with Michael has been a key ingredient of our marketing efforts," said Bob Susor, president of NAPA Auto Parts. "Race fans associate NAPA with Michael Waltrip and vice versa. Michael has promoted our brand in his own unique style. Moving forward, we are pleased to announce our continued support of Michael Waltrip and a new partnership with Bill Davis Racing. This begins a new chapter in NASCAR team sponsorship for NAPA.

"We would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere appreciation for the many successes NAPA has enjoyed during our tenure with DEI such as two NASCAR Truck Series Championships and two Daytona 500 victories. We will value our DEI association and wish them nothing but the best in their future efforts."

"NAPA and Michael Waltrip are the perfect combination to re-establish our two-car Cup team in 2006," said Davis. "NAPA and Michael are held in high regard in our sport and have been successful in each Series they have competed. We plan to build on their success and create a very competitive team next year and beyond."