Richard Childress Racing announced Tuesday that long-time competition executive Andy Petree would be retiring from the organization, effective immediately.
Keith Rodden, who started the 2024 NASCAR Cup Series season as crew chief for Austin Dillon and the No. 3 Chevrolet Camaro, has been appointed interim competition director for the championship-winning organization.
“I’m incredibly grateful to Richard Childress for the impact he has had on my career, as well as the wonderful memories and on-track success we have enjoyed together,” said Petree. “Although my day-to-day involvement with RCR is changing, I will always be a fan and supporter of everyone in Welcome, North Carolina. I wish RCR the best for the rest of this season and beyond.”
A 35-year veteran of the motorsports industry, Petree first joined Richard Childress Racing in 1993 as the crew chief for the famous No. 3 Chevrolet driven by Dale Earnhardt. With Petree’s expertise on the pit box, Earnhardt secured his sixth and seventh championships in 1993 and 1994, along with 15 wins, seven poles, 56 top-fives, and 147 top-10 finishes.
Most recently, Petree led RCR’s competition team as Executive Vice President. In that role, he guided the organization to 26 race wins (nine in the NASCAR Cup Series and 17 in the NASCAR Xfinity Series) and helped RCR earn an Xfinity Series title in 2019.
“Andy Petree has been a tremendous supporter of RCR for many years and we wish him success in the future,” said Richard Childress, Chairman and CEO of Richard Childress Racing. “Our organization won two championships with Andy during his first stint at RCR, and we have made the NASCAR Playoffs and won races with him during his most recent tenure. I am grateful for his contributions to the team, leadership, and friendship over the years. Keith Rodden has big shoes to fill as interim competition director, but I know his passion for motorsports and dedication will help drive RCR forward during a key time for our organization.”
Rodden, a veteran crew chief and race engineer, will take on a larger role across the organization to help maximize the capabilities of RCR’s Chevys and provide leadership, coordination, and support.
One Response
Retiring from RCR, not just retiring. Also, effective immediately, which to me means you’re fired. If he was going to retire then normally that means at the end of the 2024 season. Interesting.