This morning, Jeff Gordon revealed the final incarnation of the DuPont Racing paint scheme on NBC's "Today Show".

As shown above, the new scheme features subtle differences from his current scheme: the change of the base from blue to black, a yellow fade in the flames, and the disappearance of Nicorette from the lower quarter panels on the car. The car will make its debut in the 2009 Bud Shootout at Daytona.

DuPont's contract with Hendrick Motorsports, Gordon's team, runs out in 2010. Gordon has a lifetime contract with Hendrick, but seems likely to retire after the 2010 season.

He would leave the sport with nearly 600 starts, over 80 wins, and more championships (four) than any driver not named Earnhardt or Petty. After that, current Hendrick development drivers Brad Keselowski and Landon Cassill are rumored to take over the fabled No. 24.

In retirement, Gordon, 37, will likely take over an advisory role with Hendrick, a team he joined in 1992. He will also concentrate on other interests, such as the Jeff Gordon Foundation and Athletes For Hope, two charitable organizations he helped establish.

More importantly, Gordon will take on an active role in raising his daughter, Ella, who was born last summer.

With seven races remaining in the 2008 season, Gordon sits sixth in points with 10 top five finishes, 14 top tens, and three poles. The Sprint Cup Series next heads into Talladega for the AMP Energy 500. Gordon has six career wins at Talladega and is considered a favorite to win the race.

Photo Credit: www.jeffgordon.com