Dodge looks outside of NASCAR to field 2013 team?

With Penske Racing leaving Dodge for Ford in 2013 there is a huge void in the automakers racing inventory. Without a major team seeking a manufacturer partnership it’s becoming possible that Dodge may entice a team not currently aligned in NASCAR to field cars for them next season.

Enter Andretti Autosport.

Roger Pesnke said he was seeking a five year commitment from Dodge but had been offered only a three year deal. Dodge may en-turn seek a partnership from Penske’s IndyCar Series rivals.

Even if Dodge is successful in luring Andretti to NASCAR don’t expect any of the teams open wheel drivers to follow. Currently Andretti fields cars for Marco Andretti, Ryan Hunter-Reay and James Hinchcliffe in the IndyCar series.

In addition to Andretti Autosport there have been rumors that Richard Petty Motorsports and Furniture Row Racing were options for Dodge in 2013.

All the talk may be mute if the manufacturer cannot lure a top name driver to it’s nameplate. If Ryan Newman does resign with Stewart Hass Racing it leaves only Kurt Busch as a marquee name available. Busch and Newman both have past relations with Dodge during their time with Penske Racing.

John Boarman
John Boarmanhttp://www.tireball.com
Founder and Owner of Tireball Sports.

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