The Motorsports Group announced Tuesday that it is parting ways with Circle Sport, a “sudden” move decided upon by Circle Sport owner Joe Falk on Monday.
As Circle Sport with The Motorsports Group, the two managed the No. 33 Chevrolet primarily driven by Jeffrey Earnhardt in 2017. Boris Said drove it in two races.
TMG said it plans to field its own Chevrolet in 2018. It does not have a driver or sponsor attached yet.
“This is sudden for us, but we put a plan together rather quickly,” TMG owner Curtis Key Sr. said in a press release. “We’ve had discussions with potential drivers, but it’s only been a day since the news and we have more calls to make. We look to have a driver announce(d) in early January.”
Circle Sport owns the charter used on the No. 33. Circle Sport did not respond to a request for comment.
ESPN reports Earnhardt, the grandson of Dale Earnhardt Sr. and nephew of Dale Earnhardt Jr., was released from a contract extension by the team and is in search of a ride.
Eddie Pardue will stay with TMG as crew chief. He assumed the duties on the No. 33 following the July Daytona race.
Earnhardt’s best finish in 34 starts was 26th three times.
Before the teams merged for 2017, The Motorsports Group fielded the No. 30 Chevrolet in 2016.
Well this comes as a shock to me just as much as everyone else but hey like your parents always tell u don’t cry over spilt milk one door closes for another to open so let’s see what’s behind this door #NeverGiveUp #comeback #aintscaredofhardwork 💪🏼 thanks for everyones support
— Jeffrey Earnhardt (@JEarnhardt1) December 12, 2017
The Motorsports Group and Circle Sport Separate. We wish Circle Sport and @JEarnhardt1 the best of luck in the future. pic.twitter.com/a8bLAFcbrQ
— The Motorsports Group (@TMGTEAMS) December 12, 2017