Robby Gordon retained by Childress.

Despite failing to make the cut on several occasions this year, former single-seater star Robby Gordon has managed to hang on to his ride in the #31 Richard Childress Racing entry.

Gordon took over from the injured Mike Skinner, when the regular incumbent was ruled out by an accident at Chicagoland, and was confirmed for 2002 when Skinner opted to have surgery instead of returning to the cockpit next year.

Despite a career-best NASCAR finish of second on the Sears Point road course back in June, Gordon has yet to repeat his pre-stock car form behind the wheel of a Winston Cup machine. A seventh-place finish at Phoenix in October remains his best oval effort, but team boss Childress is convinced that the best is till to come from his reserve.

"Robby's a winner and a champion, and he understands what it takes to be successful," Childress told espn.com, "Robby's experience in the #31 car this year allowed him to get comfortable working with [crew chief] Gil [Martin] and the crew, and got him more seat time in a NASCAR Winston Cup car. I think it's just a matter of time before he starts consistently getting finishes like the one he had in Phoenix."

"I'm still learning a lot in Winston Cup racing, so I appreciate Richard's confidence in me getting the job done," Gordon added, "I look forward to getting the team on the winning track. Driving for Richard Childress Racing is the perfect opportunity for me, as it has made winning races and championships a tradition for three decades. I'm confident we'll be able to contribute our share of success to the programme."

Gordon boasts two race wins in the CART series, as well as four straight class victories at the Daytona 24 Hours. He is also a prominent off-road winner.