Menard joining Wood Brothers for 2018

Paul Menard will drive for Wood Brothers Racing, the organization announced Wednesday.

Menard and the Wood Brothers will compete full-time in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series. Regarding sponsorship, the organization says Menards, the company founded by John Menard that has long supported Paul's career, will adorn the car in 22 races while plans for Motorcraft/Quick Lane will be announced in the future.

"It's fantastic to have the ability to continue to race in the highest level of motorsports full-time and something we look forward to doing with Paul for years to come," said Eddie Wood in a team release.

"I know this will allow us to continue to perform as an organization and will give Paul a great opportunity to go out there and compete for wins. Paul is not only a great driver with a lot of experience in the Cup Series, but he's great with partners, which is a big part of what we do these days. We are looking forward to finishing out this season with Ryan (Blaney), going for more wins and maybe even a championship, and continuing that with Paul in 2018."

The technical alliance between Wood Brothers Racing and Team Penske will continue in 2018. As will the relationship with Roush-Yates Engines. It means Menard will also run a handful of Xfinity Series races next season under the Team Penske banner.

"I've really enjoyed my time in NASCAR and as a Cup Series driver, but to get the chance to drive the iconic No. 21 for the Wood Brothers is the coolest thing I've ever got a chance to do," said Menard. "I'm looking forward to working with the team, working with Roush Yates, Ford Performance and Team Penske to see what we can do. Ryan (Blaney) has done a fantastic job and is a constant threat to run up front. Hopefully, we can do the same thing and keep the momentum going into 2018 and beyond."