Crew chief change for Mears.

New Hendrick Motorsports recruit Casey Mears has been handed a last minute crew chief change just days before the season opening Daytona 500 with news that Darian Grubb will replace Lance McGrew.

Grubb, who guided Jimmie Johnson to victory in last years Daytona 500 while Chad Knaus was suspended, will take over from McGrew on the top of the #25 GMAC Chevrolet pit box for Mears' debut race as a Hendrick driver.

"Darian is one of the most respected voices in our organisation and has proven to be a terrific leader," said team owner Rick Hendrick. "He and Casey represent an exciting new combination for the #25 team, its sponsors and its fans."

McGrew will remain with Hendrick Motorsports in an as yet undetermined role.