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By Reid Spencer

JOLIET, Ill. -- Tony Stewart answered the big question Thursday afternoon at Chicagoland Speedway, but at the same time, he ensured that the slow unveiling of his future plans will continue for at least a few more weeks.

Having made a deal Stewart described as a merger with Haas CNC Racing, the two-time NASCAR Sprint Cup champion has acquired 50-percent interest in what will be called Stewart-Haas Motorsports next year. Beginning in 2009, Stewart will drive one of the cars for what will remain a two-car team.

Still unanswered after the press conference, at which Stewart appeared with Haas CNC general manager Joe Custer, is the question of sponsorship. Office Depot, currently the primary sponsor of Carl Edwards' No. 99 Roush Fenway Racing Ford, reportedly will move to Stewart-Haas Racing for the 2009 season. Stewart's current sponsor, Home Depot, will remain with the team Stewart is leaving, Joe Gibbs Racing.

Stewart announces formation of Stewart-Haas Racing....