Richard Childress Racing EVP Andy Petree retires amid team's struggles

Richard Childress Racing has announced a surprise move on Tuesday afternoon, noting that vice president of competition Andy Petree has retired.

In Petree’s stead will be Keith Rodden, who will serve as the team’s interim competition director.

Petree is a former NASCAR crew chief, driver and broadcaster, so he’s had a variety of roles and has connections all across the sport. He is perhaps best known for serving as a color commentator on ESPN/ABC for NASCAR in the late 2000s.

In his role as executive vice president of competition, Petree helped guide the organization to 26 race wins (nine in the Cup Series and 17 in the Xfinity Series), while also helping Richard Childress Racing win the Xfinity Series championship in 2019.

RCR made seven NASCAR Cup Series playoff appearances from 2017-2023 under his direction.

Petree was thankful for all of his opportunities on the way out.

“I’m incredibly grateful to Richard Childress for the impact he has had on my career, as well as the wonderful memories and on-track success we have enjoyed together,” Petree said in a press release. “Although my day-to-day involvement with RCR is changing, I will always be a fan and supporter of everyone in Welcome, North Carolina. I wish RCR the best for the rest of this season and beyond.”

Now RCR will turn to Rodden to help bridge the gap during a season that has not gone according to plan.

Rodden has previously served as a veteran crew chief and race engineer, and he’ll take on a larger role across the organization to help maximize RCR’s output.

“Andy Petree has been a tremendous supporter of RCR for many years and we wish him success in the future,” said Richard Childress, Chairman and CEO of Richard Childress Racing. “Our organization won two championships with Andy during his first stint at RCR, and we have made the NASCAR Playoffs and won races with him during his most recent tenure. I am grateful for his contributions to the team, leadership and friendship over the years. Keith Rodden has big shoes to fill as interim competition director, but I know his passion for motorsports and dedication will help drive RCR forward during a key time for our organization.”