Eury Sr leaves DEI for Jr.

Tony Eury Sr has announced that he has left Dale Earnhardt Incorporated and will join Dale Earnhardt Jr's JR Motorsport team as its new Director of Competition.

The move ensures that Eury Sr will keep his close ties with Earnhardt Jr who is also leaving the family run DEI team at the end of the current season for Hendrick Motorsport.

Commonly referred to as "Pops" around the NASCAR garage, Eury Sr. will oversee competition and technical support for all of JR Motorsports, which includes a full time Busch Series programme, a USAR Hooters Pro Cup Series entry, and three late model teams.

His new role at JRM will begin immediately, as he will work closely with crew chief Wes Ward, motorsports director Steve Crisp, and driver Shane Huffman in preparation for Saturday's Camping World 200 Busch Series race at New Hampshire International Speedway.

"Tony Sr. brings wins, championships, and an immeasurable amount of knowledge to JR Motorsports," Earnhardt Jr. said. "He also brings a sense of trust that you only have in family. This company needs his expertise, and I'm glad he sees the potential at JR Motorsports to want to work here. I hope I can provide him the same amount of success here that he has achieved over the years, and I hope he enjoys working here as much as I know he enjoyed working at DEI."

Tony Eury Jr, currently suspended from his role as crew chief for Earnhardt Jr's #8 team, has yet to announce his plans for 2008 and beyond.