Marlin joins MB2 Motorsports for 2006.

MB2 Motorsports has announced that two-time Daytona 500 champion Sterling Marlin has agreed to a multiyear contract to drive the team's No. 14 Chevrolet, beginning in the 2006 NASCAR Nextel Cup season.

The No. 14 will replace MB2's No. 10, and the 2005 owner points earned from the No. 10 will transfer to the No. 14.

The new number is in honour of Marlin's father, Clifton 'Coo Coo' Marlin, who drove the No. 14 while competing in NASCAR in the 1960s and 1970s. Mr. Marlin passed away in August.

"Sterling's experience, success and popularity bring a new dimension to our growing organisation," said Jay Frye, MB2's CEO and general manager. "He continues to have the desire to win. It's a great fit and we look for the No. 14 team to have a lot of success in 2006."

Regarding sponsorship for Marlin's No. 14 Nextel Cup entry, Frye said that details are still being worked out with potential partners.

"We're offering a unique sponsorship package," said Frye. "The package consists of three 12-race primary partnerships that come with a large 24-race associate sponsorship."

A NASCAR icon with 671 Cup starts, Marlin is one of only three drivers to score back-to-back Daytona 500 victories (1994 and 1995). The other two were Richard Petty and Cale Yarborough.

Marlin was in pursuit of his first series title in 2002, leading the Cup point standings for 25 straight weeks. However, a racing-related neck injury sidelined him for the final seven races, ending his quest for the season championship.

"You look at MB2 and see a racing organization that is on the upswing," said Marlin. "The Army team and Joe Nemechek have proved that. This is a great opportunity to land with a first-class operation that has the necessary resources to be competitive."

"I still have some unfinished business as a driver and that's why I am really excited about joining MB2 Motorsports," Marlin added. "And to drive a car with the same number that my father drove makes the move even more special."