Richard Petty Motorsports today announced the departure of Mark McArdle, the team's vice-president and managing director of competition. McArdle had been suspended by the team after he became involved in a heated confrontation with team co-owner George Gillett Jr. at Richmond International Raceway, following the announcement that the team would absorb the Yates Racing team and switch to Fords for 2010.
"The company and Mark have decided to go in different directions. It was an amicable departure and we are finalizing some details with him," said Rick Russell, team president. "We appreciate all of Mark's many contributions and wish him well in all future endeavors he may pursue."
McArdle said his departure comes after achieving his goal of restoring the team to championship contention.
"We have all worked really hard to get Richard Petty Motorsports back in the Chase and we accomplished that goal Saturday night," McArdle said. "Everyone at the team should take great pride in that. I wish the company nothing but success in the future. There will be nobody rooting harder for the No. 9 (Kasey Kahne) to win the championship than me."