DETROIT (August 7, 2012)--Dodge is pulling out of its NASCAR sponsorship at the end of this season, according to a person briefed on the matter quoted by The Associated Press.

Chrysler, which owns the Dodge brand, scheduled a conference call for Tuesday afternoon to announce the withdrawal.

The person did not know the reason for the decision and did not want to be identified because the company hasn't made any announcements yet, AP reported.

Among the four manufacturers in the top racing series, Dodge now stands tied with Ford in last place.

Chevrolet is in first, followed by Toyota.

Dodge's long-term future in NASCAR was a subject to speculation after its flagship team, Penske Racing, announced it was moving to Ford next season.

ESPN reported on the move earlier Tuesday.