On July 10, 2008, it was announced that then-two-time Sprint Cup Series champion Tony Stewart would join the team as a driver and owner for the 2009 season, receiving a 50% stake in the team. Stewart had been driving for Joe Gibbs Racing, but was not happy with that team's switch from Chevrolet to Toyota, and wanted to get back to racing for Chevrolet. Haas, meanwhile, desired to have Stewart drive for the team, and for Stewart to attract sponsors and personnel. The team was renamed Stewart-Haas Racing. The team proceeded to sign several high-level sponsors and experienced personnel, while better utilizing its alliance with Hendrick Motorsports.