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Russ, didn't you hear!!!

Anheuser-Busch NASCAR Sponsorship Change Send Fans Wheeling

ST. LOUIS (December 13, 2004) /PRNewswire-FirstCall via AP/

Dale Earnhardt Jr., who drives the #8 Budweiser Chevrolet in the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series, was shocked to learn that his corporate sponsorship was being terminated after an internal investigation discovered Earnhardt Jr. son of legendary Dale Earnhardt had used significant winnings from several races to purchase 4% minority shares in the Korean based KIA Automotive.

Earnhardt Jr. made the announcement today with Anheuser-Busch officials at the company's Williamsburg brewery, where the hotshot driver was scheduled to make an appearance and announce the new “9-pack” packaging product.

Additionally, Earndardt stunned the gathered press with a candid admission.

“It's pretty cool that Bud's putting nine beers in a new package. but I'd rather drink Heineken.” said Earnhardt Jr.

Pending approval by NASCAR officials, the new "Bud 9 Ya" Chevrolet will be driven by NASCAR veteran Rusty Wallace. Also gone will be the trademark red, white and black paint scheme. Budweiser's new "Bud 9 Ya" Chevrolet will sport pink and pastel blue stripes.

When asked by a Winston Salem Journal reporter how Anheuser-Busch felt fans would respond to the dramatic changes, CEO Patrick T. Stokes responded, "most of our customers are pretty bombed anyway, we doubt anyone will really notice."

Sales of the new Bud 9 pack bearing the "Bud 9 Ya" logo will appear in store shelves by Christmas.

AP-1.2.2.1...1