Tuesday August 7, 2012

DETROIT (AP) -- A person briefed on the matter says that Dodge is pulling out of its NASCAR sponsorship at the end of this season.

Chrysler, which owns the Dodge brand, has scheduled a conference call for Tuesday afternoon to announce the withdrawal.

The person did not know the reason for the decision. They did not want to be identified because the company hasn't made any announcements yet.

Among the four manufacturers in the top racing series, Dodge now stands tied with Ford in last place. Chevrolet is in first, followed by Toyota.

Dodge's long-term future in NASCAR had been subject to speculation after its flagship team, Penske Racing, announced it was moving to Ford next season.

ESPN reported on the move earlier Tuesday.

Copyright Associated Press