NASCAR superstar Jeff Gordon announced Thursday that after the 2015 season he will no longer be a full-time driver, reports ESPN.

"As a race car driver, much of what I've done throughout my life has been based on following my instincts and trying to make good decisions," the four-time Sprint Cup champion said in a release. "I thought long and hard about my future this past year and during the offseason, and I've decided 2015 will be the last time I compete for a championship.

"I won't use the 'R-word,' because I plan to stay extremely busy in the years ahead, and there's always the possibility I'll compete in selected events, although I currently have no plans to do that."

The 43-year-old Gordon told The Associated Press that the decision was made halfway through the 2014 season. He delayed the announcement because he wanted to tell his two young children, Ella and Leo, first.

The reality of his decision hit home when he told his children, Gordon says. He cried, and continued sobbing the 30-minute drive to Hendrick Motorsports where he again lost his composure as he notified his team and employees.

Although NASCAR seasons 2008 and 2010 were winless for Gordon, he has an impressive 92 career Sprint Cup wins. He ranks third behind Hall of Fame drivers Richard Petty (200) and David Pearson (105). He claimed championships in 1995, 1997, 1998 and 2001. His 23-year career has been spent in the Hendrick Motorsports No. 24 car.

The father of two won four times in 2014, including the Brickyard 400. He ranked sixth in the Sprint Cup standings. On 14 occasions he finished in the top five and won three pole positions.

"I'll explore opportunities for the next phase of my career, but my primary focus now and throughout 2015 will be my performance in the No. 24 Chevrolet," Gordon said. "I'm going to pour everything I have into this season and look forward to the challenge of competing for one last championship."

Gordon has won on every current NASCAR track with the exception of Kentucky Speedway. Early in his career he was given the nickname "Four-Time" because of the Cup titles.

Hendrick Motorsports has not yet announced a replacement driver for Gordon's No. 24 Chevrolet. Rumors have it that Xfinity Series champion Chase Elliot is high on the list of potential replacements.