Loudon, N.H.(Best E Casino) - Hendrick Motorsports announced that driver Casey Mears will be leaving the team and its No. 5 Chevrolet at the end of the 2008 Sprint Cup season.

"We've put a ton of emphasis on the No. 5 program," said Rick Hendrick, owner of Hendrick Motorsports. "It's been a total team effort, and Casey has worked as hard as anyone to help us improve. We've tested more than we ever have, but the results just haven't come.

"None of us, Casey included, have been satisfied with the situation this season. But he's confident there are other options out there for him in 2009, and we feel like Hendrick Motorsports will have some opportunities, too."

Mears will finish the year in the No. 5 car with Hendrick. Meanwhile, veteran Mark Martin is expected to return to full-time Cup racing with Hendrick's No. 5 next season, according to the Charlotte Observer.