Truth & Rumors > Auto Racing

DEI kicking tires on new team

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Dale Earnhardt Inc. is looking to expand its Nextel Cup operation and has inquired about acquiring an existing team. DEI vice president John Story said Monday the purchase of a team in the top 35 of car owner points would be used to shore up DEI's No. 15 team driven by Paul Menard. Menard is 39th in owner points and has failed to qualify for six races. The top 35 teams are guaranteed spots in a 43-car Cup field. Story declined to name teams with which DEI has talked, but multiple sources confirmed Ginn Racing's team driven by Joe Nemechek is the prime target. The No. 13 Chevrolet, which is not fully sponsored, is 33rd in owner points and Ginn has had some financial difficulties this season.

Charlotte Observer

Paul Menard, Jason Smith/Getty Images Paul Menard, Jason Smith/Getty Images

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July 10, 2007  08:09 AM ET
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I have to wonder if the ride would include Nemechek - that would be a great opportunity for Joe and we could see what he could do. Funny I mentioned before that DEI should go for the 13 (3 reference) to replace the 8.

I thought Ginn would be the one looking to increase the stable.

July 10, 2007  10:17 AM ET
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If past champions can get provisionals, why can't Paul Menard's mutton chops?

July 10, 2007  11:06 AM ET
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I'm gonna kill that Internet Loser puke.

July 10, 2007  11:56 AM ET
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Or DEI can just man up, get a descent driver, put a descent set of equipment on the track and qualify and race their way into the top 35. What a bunch of Lamers

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July 10, 2007  05:16 PM ET
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Sure right there....I was hoping Ginn would be a player....could use more teams. Have to respect Robby Gordon for keeping 1 set of wheels afloat.

July 10, 2007  09:32 PM ET
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Hey STP43FAN,
Interesting question you pose about why NASCAR is letting this happen. Jackmanrob adds to the intrigue. My belief is that it boils down to money and what sponsors have to say. Look at the difficulties some of these smaller teams having keeping sponsors aboard. Ya think they'd be more successful if they'd win a race now and then? To do that, it takes better equipment and money...lots of it. How do you get more money if you don't win? It seems like a vicious circle and the well goes dry without help. Perhaps the only answer is not to let new teams in at all unless they have X- amount of $$$. That doesn't sound that enticing either. Joining together less wealthy teams may be the only answer.

July 11, 2007  07:21 AM ET
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Another car isn't going to help Paul Menard, he's not a good driver. However, daddy has sponsorship money.

July 11, 2007  12:31 PM ET
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The day of small owners and drivers owning cars in NASCAR's top series are pretty much over.

July 11, 2007  06:28 PM ET
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NASCAR is going in the sh..hole!!!!!

 
July 11, 2007  09:31 PM ET
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I just don't see Nemechek as a positive move forward for DEI.would someone show me or convince me he is ?

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