Brian Scott joining Richard Petty Motorsports in ’16

Brian Scott will race Richard Petty Motorsports’ No. 9 Ford in 2016, the team annnounced Friday.

Scott, who has two Truck series victories, replaces Sam Hornish Jr. and joins Aric Almirola on the two-car team based in Mooresville.

“I am thrilled to go Sprint Cup Series racing full time next year and to do it with such an iconic team,” Scott said in a statement. “When you think NASCAR racing, you think Petty. I’m glad to now be a part of that legacy. I feel like we are in a good position to compete for the rookie of the year next year and continue the consistency that RPM built over the last few years.”

Scott, 27, who will take part in tire testing Monday at Homestead-Miami Speedway, finished fourth in the 2014 standings of what now is the Xfinity series, his best season. He has 17 Cup starts and won a pole at Talladega (Ala.) Superspeedway in 2014.

Team co-owner Richard Petty indicated recently that a decision on replacing Hornish – who finished 26th in points and had just three top-10s last season – would be sponsor-related. Hornish hasn’t had a sponsor but Scott has had backing from Shore Lodge.

“We’re happy to welcome Brian to the team,” Petty said. “Our team has worked very hard to continue our winning tradition and building consistency. We feel Brian is a great addition to that. He’s made a steady progression through the ranks, and now, we feel he’s ready to compete in the Sprint Cup Series.”

This story was originally published December 11, 2015 at 5:04 PM with the headline "Brian Scott joining Richard Petty Motorsports in ’16."