Associated Press
AP Auto Racing Writer
SPORTING NEWS INDIANPOLIS -- Dodge Motorsports chief John Fernandez is leaving DaimlerChrysler to take over as managing director at the Concord, N.C., racing operation of Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates.
"John has been involved in racing for a long time as an engineer with Dodge and as head of its racing programs," Ganassi said Friday. "I am very excited to add someone to the team that has so much experience in a number of different areas. He brings so much to the table."
Fernandez replaces longtime Ganassi employee Andy Graves, who was moved to a different position earlier this year. "Chip and Felix have created a first-class environment to work in," Fernandez said. "The new facility, adjacent to the Concord Airport, is spectacular and located for maximum efficiency.
"I see an organization that is poised to make the jump to the next level with all the elements needed for a championship run and I'm thrilled about being able to play a role."
Fernandez, who joined Chrysler in 1969 as a co-op student, was hired full-time as a project engineer in 1972 and took over the top job at Dodge motorsports in 2002, will oversee all the Ganassi race teams, as well as the engine, fabrication and paint shops.
