If he'd only been civil -- just civil -- when the cameras weren't rolling ...

In the final race of the 2011 season, a frustrated Kurt Busch, eliminated from contention at Homestead-Miami Speedway, first used a well-known gesture of derision toward NASCAR officials, then lashed out at ESPN reporter Jerry Punch, who was trying to interview Busch after he climbed out of his No. 22 Dodge.

To make a long story short, the No. 22 Dodge won't be his anymore.

Penske Racing announced a split with the older Busch brother, who finds himself out of a ride. It's a major development. Kurt Busch has won 24 Cup races and was the winner of the first Chase, in 2004. Since leaving Roush Fenway Racing for Penske in 2006, Busch ranks eighth in driver rating and 10th in victories, top-five and top-10 finishes.

The split was officially termed "a mutual parting of ways," which isn't uncommon. Both owner Roger Penske and Busch were gracious in statements issued on Dec. 5.

"I appreciate the victories that Kurt has brought Penske Racing and our sponsors over the past six years," said Penske's statement. "While I am disappointed that Kurt will not be racing for our team in the future, both Kurt and I felt that separating at this time was best for all parties, including our team and sponsors. I wish Kurt the best in his future racing endeavors."

Kurt Busch had already been fined $50,000 by NASCAR officials for his Homestead antics.

Busch's statement read, in part: "I am grateful to Penske Racing for six very productive years. ... I also appreciate the lasting friendships I've made while working with our great sponsors through the years, including Miller Lite, Shell and Dodge.

"Coming to a mutual agreement to go our separate ways is a positive step for me. Over the Thanksgiving holiday I took time to reflect on what is most important to me and realized I need to find a way to put the fun back into racing. It's time for a fresh start. Leaving a great organization and a lucrative contract is not easy, but it allows me to take a deep breath and work on things that can make me a better driver and a better person.

"I recognize the passion and emotion that have helped me succeed on the track need to be better channeled off the track. ... I want to personally thank Roger Penske for the opportunity he gave me and for his friendship, which will continue long into the future."

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