Ganassi shuts down Nationwide team

UPDATE This rumor is now upgraded to 'fact.' The newly merged Earnhardt Ganassi Racing team has shut down its NASCAR Nationwide Series operation, former crew chief Brad Parrott confirmed Wednesday. Parrott said seven crew members were laid off from the team, which originally planned to run the full Nationwide schedule next year with driver Bryan Clauson. The laid-off crew members were told Monday, Parrott said, and Earnhardt Ganassi trying to sell its inventory of Nationwide Dodges. Clauson’s status with the team is unknown. The 19-year-old finished second in the Raybestos Rookie of the Year standings in the Nationwide Series this season.

12/10/08 Rumor has it that the #40 Chip Ganassi Nationwide team was shut down yesterday. Crew chief Brad Parrott, a majority of the road crew and several shop personnel were released.