Opinion: Open Wheel Drivers to NASCAR
Over the past weekend at Chicagoland Speedway, Chip Ganassi Racing unveiled their new driver for the #42 Havoline Dodge team next year, Juan Pablo Montoya. Montoya comes from the Formula 1 Circuit and before that had great success with Ganassi in the CHAMP Car Series, winning several races, the Rookie of the Year award, and the Indy 500 in his first year.
Also this weekend, Danica Patrick's father (and Business Manager) was hanging around the garage in Chicago feeling out interest in the NASCAR circuit. He has made it no secret that he would like to see his daughter driving in NASCAR. Not only for the exposure of the circuit, but also the money that would come along with it. Just yesterday, however, it was reported that Danica is not in favor of this move and would prefer to stay and focus on Indy Racing. But her contract is up at the end of this year, and the old saying is "money talks."
So, my question to you is, what is your opinion on all of these changes? Do you think we will see more open wheel drivers try to move into NASCAR? Do you think Montoya will enjoy success in NASCAR? If you were Danica Patrick, would you consider a move to NASCAR at this time when your value is still pretty high for someone never to win a race? It's no secret that NASCAR is pushing a diversity iniative and bringing in the likes of Montoya and possibly Patrick would be a big feather in their cap, so to speak, in regards to diversity.
Let us know your thoughts on any and all of these issues. Great response on our last opinion piece, so keep on posting your comments.
posted by Josh Harris at 10:19 AM
4 Comments:
I have no problem with them doing it...may they find the best drivers. Now, will they be able to make the transition? I say it would be tough. Stock Cars are tough to handle and no one can just jump in the seat and excel. I think drivers who come over may struggle at first and I'm afraid some teams will not wait long. plus those drivers may not want to race in the ARCA series or some smaller division to get better.
Teams don't wait on drivers to get better, they expect them to win quickly or at least produce.
Hate to be a stick in a mud but I don't see any of those open wheelers being worth a crap. Totally different ball game.
Not sure what will come of this. It will make the sport bigger but will any of them come in & be successful, not sure.
Should be a good deal. It will show whats drivers are for real. Also, it could tell if NASCAR is tougher than open wheel.
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