Principal Financial to back MB2 duo in Phoenix.

The Principal Financial Group will be the primary sponsor on Sterling Marlin and Joe Nemechek's MB2 Motorsports' Chevrolets in this weekend's NASCAR Nextel Cup race at Phoenix International Raceway.

The company's blue-and-white livery replaces those of the drivers' regular title sponsors, but the US Army will have an associate status on the #car and Waste Management and Ginn Clubs & Resorts on the #14.

"We're thrilled to be a part of NASCAR again this year, and to deepen our sponsorship by partnering with MB2 Motorsports, former Daytona 500 champion Sterling Marlin and 'Front Row' Joe Nemechek," said senior vice-president Mary O'Keefe, "As a champion of financial well-being, The Principal helps people achieve financial security and NASCAR provides a great way to reach millions with this message."

Nemechek admitted that he was excited about the double sponsorship deal, a rarity in NASCAR.

"It will be pretty neat having two team cars with the same primary sponsor," he said, "The only thing better is to have both cars running up front and give The Principal strong finishes in its debut race."