EGR hires John Probst as technical director

John Probst was hired Friday as technical director to oversee all engineering for the NASCAR operation at Earnhardt Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates.

Probst will work closely with team competition director Steve Hmiel (pronounced Meal). Probst previously spent five years with Team Red Bull as technical director of their two-car NASCAR Sprint Cup Series operation.

Probst worked for more than a decade at Ford Motor Company, predominantly in their motor sports division. He also held posts at Ford Electronics Racing and Jackie Stewart's Formula One program.

''You owe it to your team, partners and the fans to bring in good people whenever you have the opportunity,'' owner Chip Ganassi said. ''So when John became available we jumped at the opportunity to bring him on board.''