Photo – Rainier Ehrhardt/Getty Images

After an announcement yesterday from Michael Waltrip Racing that he will join the organization part-time testing and driving in 2014, Jeff Burton a veteran Sprint Cup Series driver becomes the first member of NBC Sports Group‘s new on-air talent for NASCAR.

“Jeff Burton was always the first person we would seek out when there was breaking news or an issue that needed to be covered throughout our previous contract with NASCAR, so he was the first person we called for this role,” said NBC Sports and NBCSN executive producer Sam Flood.

“His insights, keen observation and many trophies have earned the respect of everyone involved with the sport. He will be an outstanding analyst, and has everyone here looking even more forward to getting started.”

Burton has a multi-year agreement with the NBC Group and in 2014, he will contribute to NASCAR programming on NBCSN in addition to his work on the track with MWR.

In 2015 the Group’s exclusive coverage of Sprint Cup and Nationwide Series racing begins and Burton will become a full-time analyst for NBC and NBCSN.

“This is an exciting new challenge and I am thrilled to be joining the NBC Sports family,” Burton said. “I will prepare for each race as if I were driving in it, and I look forward to sharing my experience, views and insights with all the dedicated and passionate NASCAR fans.”

Burton has 21 Sprint Cup Series victories and 27 wins in the Nationwide Series.

Fondly called the “Mayor” of the NASCAR garage, and respected by his peers and anyone associated with the sport both on and off the track, Burton is one of the strongest advocates of NASCAR racing and safety.

Throughout his career Burton has been actively engaged in increasing overall safety in racing and his views are one of the most valued among, the media, his peers, and fans.