By Staff
Even thought the official announcement is yet to come, all indications are that Kyle Busch will drive the No. 18 Interstate Batteries car for Joe Gibbs Racing next season. The little Busch joining forces with Tony Stewart should be something to watch.
Earlier, I predicted that Busch would end up with Richard Childress Racing because Childress is not afraid of young, hot-headed drivers. Joe Gibbs is probably the second best guy in the garage in handling guys like Busch, even though is hasn't totally reigned in Stewart, he put a damper on his antics several years ago.
In addition to luring Busch, rumors are that JGR is also being courted-by Toyota. General Motors' contract with all of its race teams expire after the 2007 season. JGR has not renewed that contract and Toyota is pushing hard. Toyota has far too much invested and is too proud of a company to accept the performance of its teams this season. To say Toyota's initial performance has been disappointing is a vast understatement.
Keep an eye on this story as Toyota must make a move or two over the off season. If the Gibbs deal falls through, look for other established, competitive teams, like Penske or Ganassi to become Toyota's target.
This move is another domino in the driver movement scene. To make room for Busch, JGR is offering JJ Yeley the opportunity to driver for another team in 2008. The early word is that Yeley could end up in the famous Wood Brothers No. 21 Ford. Dale Earnhardt Inc. is also affected by Busch's decision.
They worked hard to hire Busch to replace Junior in the No. 8 (for now) ride. With The Shrub out of the equation, who does DEI turn to now? David Stremme's name has been mentioned, but don't be surprised to see Regan Smith get serious consideration for that ride. Mark Martin carries loads of influence and he is Martin's pick.
How about that Busch race in Montreal? Black flags, dual burn-outs, and big time controversy. That is just what an inaugural race needs and there is no doubt that the Busch series returns to that track in 2008. Say what you will about Robby Gordon, but offering a Cup ride under his own banner to Marcos Ambrose is a classy move. Since Gordon most likely cost the Australian Ambrose his first NASCAR victory, offering the peace pipe in the form of a Cup ride was big.