Mark Martin's NASCAR career isn't over just yet

  Mark Martin's competitive driving career in NASCAR may be offer but not his influence.

   Roush Fenway Racing announced on Thursday the NASCAR veteran will return to the organization where he spent the vast majority of his career to become a driver development coach. Martin will work with drivers Ricky Stenhouse Jr., Trevor Bayne, Chris Buescher and Ryan Reed.

   Martin was the first driver hired by team owner Jack Roush when he founded his NASCAR operation in 1988. During his tenure at Roush, Martin won 83 races in various series and finished as runner-up in the Cup series standings four different times.

   “I’m excited to return to Roush Fenway Racing, as it feels like I’m going home to where I belong,” said Martin. “I was fortunate to help build this team from the beginning and it’s very humbling to be a part of Jack’s team again. 

   “Nobody does a better job at developing young talent than Jack Roush. Roush Fenway has an abundance of young, talented drivers and I’m looking forward to working with each of them going forward. I am very proud of what Jack and I were able to accomplish together and I am excited to expand on those accomplishments."

   Roush said Martin "put us on the map" and he was pleased to have him rejoin the organization.

   "Mark is not only a good friend but he’s also a fierce competitor and I truly admire his passion and dedication to racing," Roush said. "I have no question that you will be able to see his influence on our young drivers. He understands what it takes to win and to be able to do that on a consistent basis and he’ll, once again, be a great asset to have back within our organization.”