NASCAR: Robert Yates battling cancer

NASCAR engine builder and former team owner Robert Yates has begun treatment for liver cancer, his family has announced.

News of Yates's illness was revealed by his son Doug via Twitter on Monday.

Yates spent 21 years as a team owner at NASCAR's top level, earning 57 race wins, 49 poles, and the 1999 championship with Dale Jarrett in the No.88 Ford Thunderbird. His cars also won the Daytona 500 three times – twice with Jarrett (1996 and 2000), and once with Davey Allison (1992).

He also enjoyed immense success as an engine builder: cars fitted with his motors made 77 visits to Victory Lane, and helped Bobby Allison to the 1983 title with DiGard Racing.

Roush Yates Engines, headed by Doug Yates, operates in present-day Cup as the engine supplier to Ford teams.