Burton, AT&T agree upon extensions with Childress

---This is GREAT! AT&T signs an extension right as NASCAR sues them. I don't know the state of Allte's contract, I believe it is through 2008 but I am not sure. But they need to get going on the extension as well. I assume AT&T has sped this process up a little as "fighting power" against NASCAR's law suit.

GO AT&T !!!! Down with NEXTEL - have I mentioned that I work for Alltel --- Oh well!!

STORY from NASCAR.com -

ATLANTA -- Jeff Burton has reached an agreement with Richard Childress Racing on a contract extension and at the same time AT&T has exercised the option in its current contract with RCR by signing an extension that will ensure that the No. 31 AT&T Chevrolet remains a competitor in the Nextel Cup Series for years to come.

"As long-time supporters of racing and its fans, we are very pleased to continue our involvement with the sport as a team sponsor in the wireless category," said Dave Garver, executive director of high growth segments and sponsorships for the wireless division at AT&T. "We've enjoyed our relationship with Jeff and RCR, and look forward to continuing to work with them through many more winning seasons.

"In the past decade, we've developed innovative ways to bring fans closer to racing, with interactive content that can be accessed via their wireless handsets, alerts sent directly to their phones and on-the-ground activities promoting wireless services at and around racing events. We're looking ahead, planning even more engaging ways to bring the latest in wireless technology to fans."

AT&T, formerly Cingular, has sponsored a Cup Series team for 10 years, and is in its sixth season with RCR's No. 31 Chevrolet program. Since 2002, with Burton and Robby Gordon behind the wheel, the team has earned four wins, four pole positions, 22 top-five and 54 top-10 finishes.

"AT&T has been an important part of RCR since 2002 so we're very excited about renewing our contract with them and continuing that great relationship," Richard Childress said. "AT&T has been a tremendous supporter of RCR's fans and racing fans throughout the sport for more than a decade and I am eager to turn our full attention back to winning a championship.

"Jeff has been an important piece of the puzzle since he arrived at RCR in 2004. He's helped our entire organization since that time and will continue in that role. He's a true professional, whether it's with his crew or with sponsors, so we're very pleased to have him signed to a new long-term contract."

Burton began driving for RCR in August 2004 and was named the driver of its No. 31 team for the 2005 Cup season. He has earned two victories, four pole positions, 15 top-five and 33 top-10 finishes in 85 races driving the No. 31 AT&T Chevrolet.

"I'm really excited about AT&T extending their involvement with RCR. They've been a great company to work with," Burton said. "They have great people and great products. It's a real honor to represent AT&T both on and off the track."

"My enthusiasm about what we are doing at RCR is as high as it's ever been. I've never even considered doing something different. I'm glad we were able to re-sign with AT&T so that Richard and I could get our deal done. It's a real honor to drive for Richard and I am looking forward to continue working with him over the next few years."