NEW YORK — A.J. Allmendinger had a ride to envy with one of NASCAR's top teams end in stunning disgrace.

He can only hope his failed drug tests don't cost him his career.

Allmendinger's first season with Penske Racing was an abbreviated one after team owner Roger Penske announced Wednesday that he had fired his suspended driver three weeks after he tested positive for a banned amphetamine.

"AJ is a terrific driver, a good person and it is very unfortunate that we have to separate at this time," Penske said. "We have invested greatly in AJ and we were confident in his success with our team. The decision to dismiss him is consistent with how we would treat any other Penske Racing team member under similar circumstances. As AJ begins NASCAR's 'Road to Recovery' program, we wish him the best and look forward to seeing him compete again in NASCAR."