Hendrick GM/EVP Duchardt to exit at month's end

Hendrick Motorsports executive vice president and general manager Doug Duchardt will leave the organization at the end of the month, it was announced Tuesday.

"Doug joined us during a difficult time in our history and helped provide stability and leadership," team owner Rick Hendrick said in a team release. "I'll always be grateful to him for accepting that challenge and for his ongoing dedication and countless contributions. We all wish him the very best in his future endeavors, which will most certainly be successful. He's a special friend and person."

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Duchardt has been a part of the Hendrick Motorsports team since January 2005, just a few months after the organization lost part of its leadership group when a plane carrying 10 people – including general manager Jeff Turner, Hendrick's son Ricky, his brother and team president John, two of Hendrick's nieces and chief engine builder Randy Dorton – crashed in foggy conditions en route to Martinsville.

He started as vice president of development by overseeing race car design, engineering and production. In July 2013, Duchardt was named the organization's general manager, which was a newly created role, and oversaw all racing operations.

Previously, Duchardt was the director of North American motor sports initiatives for General Motors.

During Duchardt's tenure at Hendrick, the organization's chassis and engines won a record six consecutive NASCAR Cup Series championships and nine of the last 11. Duchardt also oversaw the conversation to the Chevrolet R-07 engine in 2007, the incorporation of electronic fuel injection (in 2012), as well as Hendrick Motorsports' role as the lead development team for the Gen6 Chevrolet race car.

"Being a member of this family of talented people for more than 12 years has been an unparalleled privilege," said Duchardt. "It was a difficult decision to make, but I feel this is the right time in my life to pursue other goals. I'm incredibly thankful to Rick and all of my teammates for a truly rewarding experience and for the countless relationships that will continue."

Hendrick Motorsports does not plan on filling Duchardt's role after his departure. His responsibilities will be split among other personnel, including team president Marshall Carlson, chief financial officer Scott Lampe and vice president of competition Ken Howes.