Doug Duchardt Leaving Hendrick Motorsports

By ESPN

Hendrick Motorsports general manager Doug Duchardt will leave the team at the end of June, the team announced Tuesday afternoon.

Duchardt, a former General Motors executive who joined Hendrick in 2005 to oversee car design, engineering and production, was promoted to general manager in July 2013 to direct all racing operations.

"Being a member of this family of talented people for more than 12 years has been an unparalleled privilege," Duchardt said in a news release. "It was a difficult decision to make, but I feel this is the right time in my life to pursue other goals."

With Duchardt in a leadership role at Hendrick, the organization won seven Cup titles with Jimmie Johnson while Stewart-Haas Racing, using Hendrick chassis and engines, won two championships. Johnson's three victories this year ranks as the most of any driver, while his three teammates are winless. Chase Elliott is eighth in the standings, Kasey Kahne 20th and Dale Earnhardt Jr. 22nd.

When Duchardt joined the team, the organization was still coping with the loss of executives Ricky Hendrick (team owner Rick Hendrick's son and co-owner), John Hendrick (Rick's brother and team president), Jeff Turner (general manager) and Randy Dorton (chief engine builder), who were among 10 people killed in a Hendrick plane crash in October 2004.

"Doug joined us during a difficult time in our history and helped provide stability and leadership," Rick Hendrick said. "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."

HMS president Marshall Carlson, chief financial officer Scott Lampe and vice president of competition Ken Howes will assume duties previously handled by Duchardt, who will not be replaced.