Martin to MB2

UPDATE This rumor is upgraded to 'fact' with today's announcement. See Hot News page for details.

10/05/06 Mark Martin will drive part time in an MB2 Motorsports car for the 2007 Nextel Cup season, multiple sources close to the team told NASCAR.COM on Thursday. It is believed that Martin will run 22 races for the team. Busch Series driver Regan Smith will drive the remaining 14 Cup races, the sources said.

An announcement is scheduled with Jack Roush and Martin at 10:30 a.m. ET Friday at Talladega Superspeedway.

Martin, who announced his retirement before the 2005 season, was coaxed by Roush into returning for a second "Salute to You" go-round this season in the No. 6 Ford.