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Joe Gibbs returns to NFL as head coach of the Washington Redskins

HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. — Joe Gibbs, former head coach of the NFL's Washington Redskins and owner of Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR), announced today his return as head coach of the Washington Redskins.

Gibbs retired as head coach of the Washington Redskins following the 1992 season after leading the Redskins to three Super Bowl victories in four appearances. In 12 seasons, Gibbs' record with the Redskins was 140-65 with a 16-5 playoff record.
"The desire to coach has always been with me, even after being away from the game for 11 years," said Gibbs, whose contract with the Redskins will run for five years. "After speaking with my wife Pat, we both agreed it would be a thrill to go back. I appreciate Daniel Snyder giving me the opportunity to coach again. But rest assured, I remain personally committed to Joe Gibbs Racing and each and every sponsor who supports the many employees of Joe Gibbs Racing."

JGR, winner of two NASCAR Nextel Cup Series championships and 40 Nextel Cup victories since its inception in 1992, will not be affected by Gibbs' return to the NFL sideline. Key management remains in place, with Gibbs' oldest son - J.D. Gibbs - continuing his role as team president. All of the drivers and key sponsors have long term deals, and the management structure will not change, with Jimmy Makar and each team's respective crew chiefs directing the racing operations. Joe Gibbs will remain as the race team's CEO.

"I am real excited for my Mom and Dad," said J.D. Gibbs. "I think this move gives our sponsors added value in terms of getting national exposure. JGR is a strong organization and it's in capable hands. I feel great about the state of this race team and its future success on the race track."

Prior to making his decision to return to the NFL, Joe Gibbs met with the race team's key corporate sponsors, most notably The Home Depot and Interstate Batteries.

Joe Gibbs Racing Remains Committed to Winning
"Joe Gibbs is an integral part of The Home Depot family, and I speak for the more than 300,000 company associates in support of his new challenges as coach of the Washington Redskins," said Bob Nardelli, chairman, president and CEO, The Home Depot. "Given Joe's success at building teams, it comes as no surprise that he would add NFL coach to his current responsibilities for the #20 Home Depot car driven by Tony Stewart. We look forward to a successful 2004 season with Joe Gibbs Racing."

"All of us at Interstate are extremely excited for Joe and look forward to the Cowboys - Redskins rivalry heating up again". said Norm Miller, chairman, of Interstate Batteries. "Joe Gibbs has been terrific for racing, leading Interstate and Bobby Labonte to the 2000 Winston Cup Championship and I know he will quickly return the Redskins to Super bowl form."

In addition to meeting with the race team's sponsors, Joe Gibbs also visited with his two NASCAR Nextel Cup Series drivers, Tony Stewart and Bobby Labonte.

"I'm very happy for him," said Stewart. "He's always been a coach, and football has always been very close to him. After working with Joe for a number of years, I know his commitment to winning is unmatched. Fans of the Redskins should be very happy."

"I'm thrilled for Joe" said driver Bobby Labonte, who has driven for Joe Gibbs since 1995, "Donna and I think this is the coolest thing we've heard in a long time. The race team will be just fine, and all of us on the #18 team will work just as hard to win another championship in 2004 "