NASCAR Daily News Headlines * November 24, 2008

Max Siegal's Job In Jeopardy

“There’s no doubt there will be serious streamlining at both DEI and at Ganassi,” said Speedway Illustrated Executive Editor Dick Berggren. “No position is above scrutiny.”

Siegel is prized for his expertise as both a business operator and a marketer. But Steve Lauletta, president of Ganassi Racing, is also a star marketer, having worked stints for Miller Brewing Co. and New York-based Radiate Sports Group. Few doubt Siegel would fall on the sword for the good of his company and his employees. Most hope that won’t happen.

“He’s built a reputation as a solid businessman who will do whatever is needed for the good of his company,” Berggren said. “He’s become very well-respected in a short time in NASCAR. This guy doesn’t have a single enemy.”

If Siegel, 43, does get axed, NASCAR sources said someone else should find room for the highest-ranking minority executive on the stock car circuit.(ibj.com)

Total Test Ban Contract Circulating

"I've seen a contract that was written that (owner Jack Roush) said he's willing to sign, I'm willing to sign, that says if everyone will agree to this, then we won't test at all," Edwards said. "I think that's fine. That's great."

Edwards favors two-day race weekends, though he knows it would cost tracks a day of gate receipts even as it saves teams travel expenses. "As long as everyone does the same thing, I mean, hell, what does everyone need all this practice for?" he asked. "…This is NASCAR Sprint Cup racing. We all know how to race. We've all been to these tracks before. Maybe you do a deal where guys who haven't been there before, they get a few hours of practice."(tampabay.com)

Reutimann Awaits New Crew Chief

Reutimann said a replacement for Ryan Pemberton, who said late in the season he was leaving for Red Bull, could be announced next week.

"You would like to get somebody in there because Ryan decided to do his deal so late in the season it doesn't give you much opportunity to talk with people," Reutimann said. "You know your crew chief is leaving halfway through the year, you can start talking to people who are interested in doing something different. He just didn't give us that option."(tampabay.com)

Stewart Donates $20,000 to Support Race Horses

Funds provided by the Tony Stewart Foundation will help FFI evaluate and retrain the horses, and find new, forever homes with devoted, caring owners.

More than 200 horses have been transitioned from the track into new careers as show horses, dressage competitors, pleasure and trail riders, equine therapeutic program partners, pasture mates and beloved companions.

Several thoroughbreds, the first horses to be christened "Tony's Ex-Racers," were brought into the FFI program Nov. 17 during the annual end-of-season paddock sale at Hoosier Park Racing & Casino in Anderson, Ind. Representatives of both Friends of Ferdinand and the Tony Stewart Foundation were on hand to take a look at available horses and select those destined to become "Tony's Ex-Racers."

"We are thrilled beyond words that the Tony Stewart Foundation has selected our program to receive its support," said Friends of Ferdinand President Sara Busbice. "A grant this size is significant and enables us not only to continue but to expand the work we do with our Indiana thoroughbreds. Especially now, with the economy in such turmoil, support of this magnitude is simply incredible."

A total of 10 horses will be brought into the program as "Tony's Ex-Racers" - those obtained from the Hoosier Park paddock sale, and two or three others already in line to come off the track and into FFI's care.(indianapolismotorspeedway.com)

Bobby Labonte Still Holds Records

However, as Jimmie Johnson beat Carl Edwards for his record-tying third straight Cup championship on Sunday in Homestead, Florida, he also ensured that Labonte would keep one of NASCAR’s ultimate achievements to himself. As Johnson crossed the finish line in 15th, Labonte remained the only driver in NASCAR history to win a Sprint Cup title (2000) and Nationwide Series title in his career.

“I have to consider that one of the highest honors of my career. I mean, no one else has done it,” said Labonte. “There have been a lot of great drivers that have competed in both series and I’m sure someone will join me eventually. Carl (Edwards) is coming closer and closer every year. I’m beginning to feel like the ’72 Dolphins.”

Labonte came along when the Nationwide Series was a true “feeder” series into the Sprint Cup ranks. His hard work and determination that he showed in the Nationwide Series led Labonte to some of the most historic rides in NASCAR’s premier division, including the No. 43 Petty Enterprises Dodge that he currently pilots.

“Back then we were guys hoping to make it,” said Labonte. “I owned my own team and really enjoyed racing against Chuck Bown and Rob Moroso and Kenny Wallace. Those are some of the best memories I have. We would really get after it. I learned so much during those years.”