Franchitti to Ganassi, Stephen Leicht and Butch Hylton out at Yates Racing, Nationwide replaces Busch, and M&M's to sponsor Kyle Busch
There is so much to cover when it comes to NASCAR's silly season. The desire to hire open wheel veterans continues as Chip Ganassi, who tends to favor open wheel drivers, hired Dario Franchitti to replace David Stremme in the #40 Dodge. Franchitti absolutely has zero experience in stock car racing, however, he will join the NASCAR Sprint Cup fraternity.
Franchitti will make his stock car debut in the ARCA race at Talladega this weekend. Just a quick question...does Chip Ganassi ever hire seasoned veterans or does he just simply prefer gambling on untapped talent?
While Franchitti and Jacques Villenueve step into their new rides, Busch Series young gun Stephen Leicht is searching for a ride after his release from Robert Yates Racing. If I were a NASCAR Sprint Cup owner, I would put Leicht in a stock car over Franchitti, Villenueve, or Patrick Carpentier anyday. Additionally, Butch Hylton has been released from his duties as crew chief of the 88 car. Cully Barraclough will assume that role.
Nationwide will replace Anheiser-Busch as the title sponsor for the Busch Series. The 'Nationwide Series' just doesn't roll of the tongue quite like Busch Series.
And as expected, M&M's will become the primary sponsor for Kyle Busch and Joe Gibbs Racing in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series for 2008.
Haas CNC Racing has signed Scott Riggs to drive their Chevrolets for the 2008.
