NASCAR, Sprint Nextel, AT&T and Richard Childress Racing have agreed to end the legal dispute over branding of the #31 car. The agreement immediately permits AT&T to continue as primary sponsor of the #31 car, using the AT&T name and logos, through the 2008 season.

“This agreement represents compromise from all sides that ultimately serves the sport well,” said NASCAR Chairman and CEO Brian France. “No one likes litigation, most of all the NASCAR fans, and it was time to find a mutually agreeable resolution. We’re now happy to move forward with the exciting conclusion of the season as we approach the Chase for the Nextel Cup.”

“This is a great solution for NASCAR, the fans, Richard Childress Racing and Sprint Nextel,” said Tim Kelly, chief marketing officer for Sprint. “We accomplished our ultimate goal of protecting our unique position with NASCAR while giving the #31 team ample time to transition to a new sponsor. We will continue to focus on bringing new and unique innovations to NASCAR fans for the betterment of the sport.”

“We’re very pleased to have the AT&T logos back on the #31 Chevrolet and to have AT&T continue as a primary sponsor for Jeff Burton and Richard Childress Racing,” said Richard Childress, president and CEO of Richard Childress Racing.

“We’re excited to have AT&T back on the car for Richmond and that they will continue to be a big part of what we do,” said Jeff Burton, driver, RCR’s #31 AT&T Chevrolet. “Now we can move forward and concentrate on winning races and competing for the championship.”

“This agreement is the right step taken at the right time. It provides a clear path forward for the sport and its fans, for Richard Childress Racing and Jeff Burton, and for AT&T, which can use its brand on the #31 Car,” said Dave Garver, executive director of business development and wireless sponsorships for AT&T’s wireless unit.

[NASCAR]

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