Mike Calinoff is leaving Roush Fenway Racing at the end of the 2013 season.
The long time spotter has been serving as the eyes above the track for the No. 17 of Ricky Stenhouse Jr. in the Sprint Cup Series and at times the No. 6 of Trevor Bayne in the Nationwide Series this season. Previously Calinoff had been the spotter for Matt Kenseth while he was at RFR.
While Calinoff admitted he was leaving RFR at the end of the season he has declined to tell anyone of his plans.
“Jack Roush, Robbie Reiser and Matt Kenseth took a chance on me in 2000 and afforded me the opportunity to build a career in NASCAR that has far exceeded my expectations,” said Calinoff. “I’ve worked with a number of amazing drivers and crew chiefs who will continue to be great friends.”
Pursuits. Sounds like formalwear for cats. RT @shirleenriffe: @MikeCalinoff Wish you the best of luck wherever your pursuits may take you.
— Mike Calinoff (@MikeCalinoff) November 5, 2013
I'm about to floss. Thank you! RT @MLo2488: @MikeCalinoff Good luck Mike in whatever you do!
— Mike Calinoff (@MikeCalinoff) November 5, 2013
Calinoff’s resume at RFR has 47 victories in NASCAR’s three National Touring Series with Kenseth, Stenhouse and Ricky Craven. He won the 2003 Sprint Cup title and two Daytona 500’s (2009 & 2012) with Kenseth, in addition to back-to-back Nationwide crowns with Stenhouse in 2011 and 2012.
“Even though I will not return to RFR in 2014, I remain focused on trying to win a Sprint Cup race with Ricky Stenhouse, Jr.,” said Calinoff. “That would be an awesome way to end the season.”
