Michael Waltrip Out At DEI

Today Dale Earnhardt Inc. announced that Michael Waltrip will not be returning to drive the #15 NAPA Chevy in 2006. Not a lot of details are available at the moment but this is probably a good move for Waltrip as the DEI team is in transition. Both Michael and his teammate Dale Earnhardt Jr have struggled in 2005 with Michael currently 19th in the points standings.

Given Michael's outgoing personality and media savvy he'd be a great pickup for most any sponsor. Michael is the master of getting the plug in. I'm sure he'll land softly and may well already have his plans for 2006 lined up.

No word on whether DEI will put the #15 on the track in 2006. In addition to Dale Earnhardt Jr's #8 they are already planning on fielding the #1 for Martin Truex Jr. NAPA's sponsorship deal for the #15 also expires at the end of 2005.