NASCAR: Grubb returns to Hendrick

Hendrick Motorsports has hired former Joe Gibbs Racing crew chief Darian Grubb as its vehicle production director. The 40-year-old Grubb "will oversee every aspect of racecar manufacturing" in the newly created role, according to the team. He will work alongside vehicle technical director Kenny Francis, another former crew chief, to spearhead production and engineering for Hendrick Motorsports' four NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams.

Grubb, who spent the past four seasons with Gibbs' team, held various engineering and crew chief roles at Hendrick from 2003-'08.

"It means a lot to come back to Hendrick Motorsports," said Grubb. "This is a role that will allow me to contribute to the success of the entire organization, which was very important to me. Kenny is someone I greatly respect, so the chance to work side-by-side with him was a big factor. Everything is familiar, and I think that will make for a smooth transition.

"The more we talked about the opportunity, the more it felt right. I'm ready to get started."