Harvick’s days at RCR numbered

In an interview with ESPN’s Marty Smith that will air during Sunday’s “NASCAR Countdown" prerace show on ABC, driver Kevin Harvick hints his career at Richard Childress Racing could be over when his current contract expires in 2010.

During the six-minute interview conducted at Harvick’s home in Kernersville, N.C., the driver discusses his frustrating 2009 Cup season, along with the persistent rumors that he had sought an early release from his contract. Harvick acknowledged that he and team owner Richard Childress have had such a conversation, but Harvick said they agreed “it would not be in the best interest for all involved."

Asked about his relationship with Childress, Harvick said,

“It’s OK. There have been some stressful moments." The most telling answer came in response to Smith’s inquiry about what RCR might do to keep Harvick.

“Sometimes when you get to the end of the book, you shut the book and say, ‘That’s a great book. It was a lot of fun,’ " Harvick said. “But sometimes, it’s best for everyone involved to say, ‘All right, I’m going to read another book.’ "

RCR officials said they had no specific comment about the interview and reiterated that Harvick would drive the No. 29 Shell-sponsored Chevrolet in 2010.