He did it!

All the rumors were true, Dale Jr is going to Hendrick MotorSports. Announced via live on TV, Dale Earnhardt Jr. will drive for Hendrick Motorsports starting in 2008. Dale Jr. started the press conference with a short speech/explanation, then introduced his new team owner Rick Hendrick and unveiled the Hendrick Motorsports logo. Dale Jr seemed to be smiling a lot, who could blame him, he just signed with the best team in NASCAR.

How can he drive for Hendrick who has 4 drivers already, you ask. Hendrick and Kyle Busch have been working on a contract extension for months, but all of a sudden Busch was talking to other teams and realized his value, Hendrick said conversations with Busch led both to realize it would be better for Busch to look at his other opportunities and part ways, but that Busch would run the #5 Chevy for the remainder of the season.

As for a car number and sponsor for Dale Earnhardt Jr., Hendrick said none of that has been finalized as of yet. Dale Jr. mentioned he would like to keep the #8 and would talk to DEI about acquiring the number. Hendrick said he would be open to swapping the #5 for the #8, if DEI is interested. Dale Jr said he is looking for a number and car design that would look 'cool'. Asked about crew members and current crew chief Tony Eury Jr., Dale Jr. said it would have to be discussed down the road. The deal is a five-year deal 2008-2012