News and Views – Volume 6

For the week of January 2, 2012 – Volume 6

Welcome to 2012 and thanks for your patience during our absence in the holiday season. 


At Fan4Racing we are very thankful to each and every reader and contributor as we began our venture in November 2011 with a clear vision to be a site for fans of NASCAR. We appreciate each and every person, because we know that without you, our vision would not be complete.


Our goal for 2012 is to continue encouraging more contributors to write articles with views of current NASCAR news. We’ll continue seeking out creative ways to encourage more of you to post your views to our articles in the comments section. Your voice is important in continuing to develop our purpose as fan views are the very reason, Fan4Racing blogging site was created and we need YOU to participate to make that dream a reality. So thanks in advance for supporting our vision for 2012 and beyond.


Now, let’s catch up on NASCAR news as this has been the silliest silly season ever! With several questions answered since the season ended in Homestead, there are still more questions to be answered and other news mixed in too!


Here’s what we know going into 2012
Car#          Driver            2011 CC          2012 CC             For 2012
5                KKahne         LMcGrew           KFrancis            RBR closed
6                DRagan         Blickensderfer                           #6 closed
11              DHamlin        MFord               DGrubb              Ford looking
14              TStewart        DGrubb            SAddington
15              CBowyer        SWilson            BPattie
20              JLogano         GZipadelli         JRatcliff            GZ new post SHR
22              Allmendinger  SAddington        TGordon
29              KHarvick        GMartin             SWilson            GM new post RCR
31              JBurton          LLambert          Blickensderfer    LL TBA @RCR
42              JPMontoya      JPohlman          CHeroy             JP TBA @EGR
47              BLabonte        FKerr               TBerrier             FK ShopForeman
51              KBusch           NHarrison         NHarrison          LCassill looking
55              Martin/Waltrip                        RChilders


Which of these new matchups do you think will be most successful in 2012?
Which driver do you predict will come up with the first win of 2012?


2011 drivers not yet announced for a NASCAR ride in 2012
Car#     2011Driver                        2011 Team
00         David Reutimann          Michael Waltrip Racing
6           David Ragan                Roush Fenway Racing
32         Multiple Drivers            FAS Lane Racing
34         David Gilliland              Front Row Motorsports
36         Dave Blaney/others       Tommy Baldwin Racing
38/55    Travis Kvapil/JJ Yeley     Front Row Motorsports
43         Allmendinger (to#22)    Richard Petty Motorsports
46         EDarnell/SSpeed (#95)  Dusty Whitney-owner
51         Landon Cassill              Phoenix Racing
66         Michael McDowell          HP Racing
71         Andy Lally                   TRG Motorsports
83         Brian Vickers                Red Bull Racing
87         Joe Nemechek              Joe Nemechek – owner


Teams expected back in 2012 with current drivers include #32, 34, 36, 38 and 87, but without an announcement remain questionable.


Which of these drivers will be successful in finding a Cup seat for 2012?
Will any of these drivers end up in a Nationwide or Truck series seat for 2012? If so, which driver, for which series?


The famed #43 car is without a driver and sponsor for 2012?
With AJ Allmendinger, and sponsor, Best Buy leaving Richard Petty Motorsports in the past month, the team is scrambling late in the game to keep the famed #43 car on track for 2012. While speculations have been rampant, the latest rumors indicate Aric Almirola will be the next RPM driver with Air Force and Smithfield Foods as anticipated sponsors. Although Almirola has another year remaining in his contract with JR Motorsports, it is reported JRM is already looking for his replacement with David Ragan, Reed Sorenson and Cole Whitt as leading candidates. However, with previous silly season rumors proving inaccurate, these questions still remain open until an RPM announcement.


What are your predictions for the #43 car in the 2012 season?


Scott Speed settles lawsuit with Red Bull Racing
Scott Speed will drive the #95 car for Leavine Family Racing in fifteen races for the 2012 season, and has settled his law suit with Red Bull Racing. After being let go from Red Bull Racing, Speed filed a lawsuit, December 2010 asking RBR to pay $6.5 million in salary he would have received from 2011-2013 and an additional $500,000 reduction of his 2010 salary he accepted January 2010. Based on court documents, both sides met November 30th and came to an undisclosed agreement on all issues. Scott Speed filed dismissal documents on December 19th.


With a Scott Speeds’ new ride in 2012 and the lawsuit behind him, will next season bring better results and a potential full-time ride in his future?


Kahne steps into a grocery store and his tweets fire-up some fans
Kasey Kahne has apologized for comments he tweeted to his 100k fans about public breastfeeding he witnessed while at the grocery store. Apparently, he saw a mother breastfeeding a child at the store, calling it “nasty” and tweeting he didn’t “feel like shopping or eating” afterward. Kahne received a several replies from fans and in the heat of the moment, gave a profane response he later regretted. Kahne deleted some of his tweets and apologized to fans on facebook and twitter saying it wasn’t his intention “to offend any mother who chooses to breastfeed her child, or for that matter, anyone who supports breastfeeding children. I want to make that clear.” Kahne further said he understands his comments were “offensive to some people.” Apparently, the story made news throughout the media including People magazine.


What are your views of what transpired with Kasey Kahne on twitter?


Kurt Busch with Phoenix Racing for the 2012 season
The 2004 Sprint Cup champion will be in the #51 car at Phoenix Racing for the 2012 season in both the Sprint Cup and Nationwide series. Kurt Busch ended his 2011 season with his share of embarrassing moments, including heated interactions with the media, his team and owner, leading to his departure from Penske Racing. Busch’s new owner James Finch has indicated he will not tolerate the same behaviors from Busch going forward saying, “…Hopefully we can get him controlled. He’s got a long way to come. He’s got to show people he’s going to be a driver. And show NASCAR that he’s a driver and he’s going to do what’s expected as a driver.” Kurt Busch has indicated he’s working with a sports psychologist to address his issues and looking forward to his future.


Do you think Busch will successfully address his apparent anger management issues in 2012?
Will Busch be successful by contending in the Chase for the championship in 2012?


Front Row Motorsports working on their 2012 lineup
Team owner, Bob Jenkins and general manager Jerry Freeze put together their 2011 team with #34 David Gilliland, #38 Travis Kvapil and #55 JJ Yeley, delivering a solid season. However, none of the three drivers are under contract for the 2012, with Freeze saying, the team intends to have all three back because they are the type of drivers the team needs at this stage of its development. “All three drivers have been really good for Front Row Motorsports. They all fit the same profile. They are drivers with five or six years of Cup experience. They were all champions in another form of racing but haven’t made their mark yet in Sprint Cup racing. They are all really hungry to make their mark. We aren’t quite set to announce our formal driver lineup yet…but our plan is to run the #34 and the #38 car along with a third car (#55 is now with MWR in 2012) that will make some appearances for us.” Freeze also indicated, there are several high-profile drivers without a ride and FRM is exploring the free-agent market. “We’ve talked to Ragan and Reutimann. Ragan has been in the Ford family and we talked to him after the season was over out of respect for Ford because they really liked him and wanted to see if there was a fit there. We’ve talked to David Reutimann, too. If there is a place where he might fit along with a sponsor, we could be an option there. But it’s been more casual conversations with those guys and our focus has been on David, JJ and Travis and on packages that we have discussed with them.


With no announcements yet, how do you see the FRM lineup developing for 2012?


IN OTHER NEWS…


Harvick Foundation Lends a Helping Hand in Toy Drive
The Kevin Harvick Foundation donated 125 toys to Martinsville Speedway Toy Drive before Christmas. The toys were distributed to needy youngsters by Christmas Cheer of Martinsville and Henry County (VA). The Harvicks’ refer to Martinsville Speedway as their ‘home track’ as they live about 35 miles away and have partnered with track charity events previously.


Nashville Superspeedway available for 2012 team testing
Dover Motorsports, Inc announces Nashville Superspeedway, in Lebannon, TN is available for team testing beginning January 2012. President and CEO, Denis McGlynn says the superspeedway “…is within driving distance of most race teams’ headquartered in Charlotte, NC. We anticipate strong interest in the facility as a test venue.”


Roush Yates team up with Impact by MasterCraft Safety
Roush Yates Performance Products have an agreement with Impact by MasterCraft Safety to create a 1500 square foot safety center at their retail center in Moorseville, NC. CEO Doug Yates says, “This new partnership certainly broadens our reach and product offerings as a whole, which should further underscore the fact that Roush Yates Performance Products is truly a complete solution center for any racer of any caliber or series.” MasterCraft Safety president Robbie Pierce says, “We couldn’t be happier. While our product lines are different, both Roush Yates and Impact offer premium racing products with absolutely no compromises.”


Ramsey Poston opens communications firm
Having led communications efforts for NASCAR since 2004, Ramsey Poston announced the opening of a strategic communications firm, Tuckhoe Strategies. Poston will manage a select number of clients including NASCAR, providing strategic counsel to positively move brands forward while supporting their marketing and overall communications efforts. Poston will draw from his experience at NASCAR where he established the strategic vision for day-to-day efforts, which include the sport’s marketing initiatives and those of its key sponsors.


Greg Biffle chosen as Fourth Quarter Spirit Winner
National Motorsports Press Association/NMPA members chose NASCAR Sprint Cup driver Greg Biffle as the fourth quarter Spirit Award winner. The award is intended to recognize character and achievement in the face of adversity, sportsmanship and contributions to motorsports. Biffle worked with several partners in the ‘Give Kids A Smile’ program to give more than 200 children in the Charlotte-area free dental care during the October race weekend at Charlotte Motor Speedway. Other drivers receiving votes include, Dale Earnhardt, Jr., Kevin Harvick, Juan Pablo Montoya and Ryan Newman.


Tony Stewart Wins Again
With an already incredible year, Tony Stewart took the checkered flag on New Year’s Eve completing a weekend sweep of the 14th annual Rumble in Fort Wayne indoor midget races. Stewart said, “This is the first time I’ve ever raced on New Year’s Eve. It’s been a dream year. I’ve won my first World of Outlaws race and the (Sprint Cup) championship. Then I won at Conseco (an all-star kart race in Indianapolis) and won here two times. What a great way to finish the year. It’s going to be hard to keep this up, but it’s going to be a lot of fun trying.”


Argentinean Dakar driver Jorge Boero death
January 1, 2012, Dakar driver Jorge Boero, fell to his death at km 55 of the first stage Dakar race between Mar del Plata and Santa Rosa. The rider suffered a cardiac arrest following his fall and was attended after the accident by medical staff reaching the location by helicopter. The 38-year-old Jorge Boero died while being taken to the hospital, despite the best efforts of attending doctors.


Robby Gordon racing in Dakar Rally
Follow Robby Gordon’s team journey to compete in the Dakar Rally at any of these sites: speedenergy.com, toyotires.com, robbygordon.com, planetrobby.com and dakar.com


Allmendinger and McMurray in Kart race at Daytona
Jamie McMurray adds another Daytona victory as winning the TAG 2 Final Race during WKA Daytona Kartweek events. AJ Allmendinger also competed, but ran into some bad luck in the TaG Parilla Leopard class with contact shuffling him to a 16th place finish. Allmendinger also placed fourth in both the TaG 1 and TaG 2 classes.


New Audiences becomes target of NASCAR
NASCAR is continuing their effort on a five-year plan with five key goals: Build the star power of individual drivers, increase engagement among children and college-age consumers, attract a multicultural fan base, craft more cohesive digital and social media strategies and improve the racetrack experience for fans. NASCAR CMO Steve Phelps is overseeing the execution of these initiatives. While some efforts were initiated in 2010, work over the next 18 months on the digital media and multicultural marketing fronts will be crucial.


Dale Jr. flipping the coin at Bowl game
Look for Dale Jr. to perform the opening coin toss at the TaxSlayer.com Gator Bowl January 2, 2012 at 1 pm ET on ESPN2 when the Florida Gators face off with Ohio State Buckeyes.


Countdown to Daytona Testing continues
NASCAR and teams are targeting Daytona sessions as they work together to temper tandem drafting before the Daytona 500 in February.  Only ten more days for fans to wait for NASCAR testing in Daytona as SPEED will cover the afternoon sessions January 12-14, 2012.


Thanks for reading. Please share your views of this weeks’ news…

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2012 New Year Greetings


Wishing all of YOU 
a peaceful and prosperous 
NEW YEAR in 2012
“May all dreams in your eyes, 
all desires in your heart and 
all hopes in your life blend together 
to give you the most 
Happiest New Year”

We are thankful for your support!

From your friends at Fan4Racing



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NOTE: No publishing or redistribution of any content is allowed
unless there is written, documented permission from Fan4Racing

How will the Busch Brothers reality show unfold for 2012?

Kurt and Kyle Busch awaiting qualifying
For the Sprint Cup Series in June 2010 at Pocono
(Photo by Rusty Jarrett/Getty Images)
For race fans the reality show of the Busch Brothers in NASCAR never ceases to amaze whether you are a fan or not.  Fans of Kurt and Kyle focus on their obvious on-track talent and drive to win, while others focus more on their unchecked anger management issues.  However, even some long time Busch fans are embarrassed with what occurred in 2011 with both brothers, and some are looking for another driver to call their favorite. But, everyone agrees Kurt and Kyle are extraordinarily talented with their driving skills in NASCAR’s elite series’.  And race fans will be tuning in next season to watch their story continue to unfold. 

With the 2011 season now in the rear view mirror, Kurt and Kyle now find themselves in a career-critical position and their choices moving forward will make or break their dreams of a future within the NASCAR world.  Kyle’s moment of truthcame during the fall race weekend in Texas with his intentional wreck with championship contender Ron Hornaday.  Kurt was forced to face his demons in the wake of the final race of the season in Homestead when a fan video-recorded his profanity-laced frustration toward Dr. Jerry Punch because of a delayed interview.  The video went viral and Kurt’s fate was ultimately revealed quickly after champions’ week in Las Vegas.



Kyle Busch sitting out the Sprint Cup Race
at Texas Motor Speedway 2011
(NASCAR Photo)
While Kyle’s fate lay in the hands of his owner with Joeand JD Gibbs expertly managing their way to an agreement with disappointed sponsors to keep them and Kyle within their stable, it is also clear that Kyle’s issues must be addressed going forward.  In fact, reports indicate JGR is requesting Kyle to not race in Truck series and perhaps even the Nationwide races for the 2012 season, to reduce the chance of another loose cannon episode.  Whether Kyle will heed the advice and suggestion of his owner is yet to be determined and undoubtedly fans will stay tuned, to find out what happens next with Kyle.

Brother Kurt, on the other hand has now been shown the door with two top-tier NASCAR teams.  In 2005 Kurt, the Sprint Cup Champion of 2004 was forced out of the final two races of the season after being stopped for suspicion of drunken driving, cited for reckless driving and subsequently belligerently berating the police in Phoenix. This episode ended with Roush Racing’s then team president, Geoff Smith proclaiming, we’re “officially retiring as Kurt Busch’s apologists.” 



Kurt Busch burned the bridge with
Roush and Penske Racing Teams
(Ashley Dickerson/ASP Inc/Icon SM)
And now again, with a “mutual agreement” for his departure from Penske Racing, most fans know that Kurt’s behavior did not fit with the Penske organization professional policies.  Many fans understand that Kurt did not independently choose to leave his team, especially following a series of statements from Penske and sponsors of the #22 team indicating their disappointment with Kurt’s behavior at Homestead. Along with the departure of Kurt’s crew chief, Steve Addington, after a season of verbal abuse from the driver, more than likely the final straws fell breaking the bond for the Penske organization.  And while Roger Penske was supportive of Kurt Busch even in the end with the “mutual agreement” statements, there is a limit to how much unprofessionalism and verbal abuse any organization will tolerate when it’s costing more than they are gaining. And yes, it was obvious to anyone paying attention that Kurt was not a happy camper in the 2011 season.  And yes, it was evident he wasn’t having much fun in the #22 car a good part of the time.  So, it’s not hard to believe Kurt when he says he wasn’t having fun at Penske.
 
Kurt Busch celebrating a race win
(Photo by Chris Trotman/Getty Images)
What is hard to believe, however, is why Kurt doesn’t see the real reason behind his bad behavior. If you were paying attention to his part of this reality show, it’s apparent that Kurt was dealing with some major stress from some source, and perhaps his divorce was more influence than he cares to admit. Instead of dealing with his stress and the cause of his stress, Kurt chose to blame Penske, Addington, his crew, the car, indirectly Dr. Punch, anyone and everyone, except himself.  And while there may have been some real issues with the car, pit strategy, and perhaps even organizationally, Kurt’s reaction to those issues overshadow and inhibit real progress in addressing those concerns.  Stated in other words, similar to Kyle’s issues, Kurt is his own worst enemy in achieving his desire to win more races and contend for a championship. In reality, only Kyle and Kurt stand in the way of achieving their goals vs. everyone else they tend to blame for their unfortunate circumstances.  They are now saying they are taking accountability for their actions, but some fans are not so sure.

Kyle Busch waving to fans at Richmond 2011
(Photo – Associated Press)
Although fans can see the big picture of how Kurt and Kyle’s personal behavior have led them to this point, some are just not convinced that either of them is really taking ownership of their actions and consequences…yet.  Sure, both have said they are taking action to address their issues.  But, unfortunately, it’s not the first time hearing those words from either brother.  Many fans, perhaps not all, have experienced the disappointment in being fooled by their “charade of change.” How many times have fans heard about the “new” Kyle Busch or of those not sure if they would be dealing with the “old” or “new” Kyle at any given moment? Unfortunately, the same can be said of older brother Kurt.

As a NASCAR fan, finding out that Kurt’s behavior with Dr. Punch was typical of what many in the media have experienced at one time or another was disappointing and more importantly, disturbing.  Hearing that bad behavior had become “accepted” as what to potentially expect from either brother was a painful reality to learn. This sounded eerily similar to an abused spouse speaking of their loved one, and defending the dysfunction in their family. Some in the media even defended the bad behavior as a symptom of celebrity stress. 

Folks, it’s time to be real honest here.  One’s celebrity and the stress that co-exists with it do not give anyone the right to verbally abuse another individual. No one should be subjected to verbal abuse by anyone at any time and it certainly should not be an accepted point of view nor should it continue for an indefinite period of time without resolution. The dysfunction within the NASCAR family is now exposed for all to see the reality of acceptability for bad behavior. As any compassionate human being to another, fans want to see this dysfunction addressed in a positive way to benefit all.

Mount Cope Website describes emotional abuse
Many ask why is it different for the Busch brothers compared to others that have expressed their frustrations over the many years of NASCAR’s existence.  The answer is two-fold.  First, as a society we have evolved to a greater realization of the damage that results from this type of abusive behavior. The damage not only affects the abused, but the very nature of the abuse is a symptom indicating there are some personal issues that need to be addressed so the abuser can reform their perspective and future behavior. We know that ignoring the problem does nothing to address those issues and enables the bad behavior to perpetuate and ultimately diminish the lives of all involved.
 
Change bad habits by adopting positive and
empowering habits that will bring what you want in life
Millionaire Secrets Website gives some great tips
to help with your new year resolutions
For the second point, I’m reminded of my High School chemistry teacher addressing excuses for not completing homework assignments in a timely manner.  The point made by this teacher is something that has held true for many situations throughout the years and certainly appropriate for this situation.  At the beginning of the school year, this teacher told students the guideline used to address repeat offenders.  “The first offense is considered an accident inconsistent with usual behavior.  The second offense just might be a coincidence and will be forgiven.  However, if the same offense occurs a third time, it is now considered a bad habit. And bad habits need to be addressed.” 


Such is the case for the Busch brothers.  They have established their bad habit with repeated offenses which are now indefensible. Denying the problem, and blaming others is only further evidence the problem exists and  an indication of resistance to change. Those showing resistance to change often require a startling wake-up call and professional support to make a personal commitment to change their lives for the better.  One great outcome from a successful experience in breaking bad habits and creating new healthy habits, is that past offenders often make great spokespersons to help others recognize, commit and change, thus benefiting many others with the similar challenges.

Recent attempts at public relations spin are evidence to some that Kurt is still in a bit of denial. Many fans and media personalities do not buy his or the Penske organization statement of “mutual agreement” to part ways and at best, find the terminology to be a stretch of the truth. These comments more accurately appear to be supporting Kurt’s own personal need to save face that he’s been booted from his second top tier organization. 

“The King” Richard Petty
(photo – Getty Images)
Furthermore, Kurt has turned down an offer with Richard Petty Motorsports, of which many are all too happy to hear. Upon hearing the news of the potential partnership, many were shocked to hear either party was entertaining the possibility. Most fans cringe to think of Kurt speaking to “The King” as he has spoken to Roger Penske. No one is a fan Kurt’s repeated language of profanity with the Phoenix police, his crew, Steve Addington, Roger Penske or Dr. Jerry Punch and most likely others.  To put Kurt Busch in the position of potentially further debasing himself and this legendary team would be a major mistake for all parties and in the end no one saw this partnership ending well for anyone. While Kurt’s account of turning down the offer is true, fans recognize the positioning actually masks the issue at hand in that sponsor Best Buy ultimately left RPM and potential sponsorship at this late date cannot be limited to those willing to take the risk associated with a driver known as a loose cannon with profanity laced outbursts. 

Based on all that has transpired, Kurt’s next partnership will be the make or break moment of his career. Kurt has chosen to go with owner James Finch of Phoenix Racing and will be the next driver of the #51 car with crew chief Nick Harrison. With the sponsor Rydex SGI, the risk still remains and Kurt cannot afford any outbursts that have haunted his past. Finch’s comments are refreshingly to the point and without the spin, as he says he has talked with Busch about his past. “He lost a job and he’s lost several million dollars, and so I think that’s been a wake-up call. I told him, I said Kurt it’s about winning racing. You need to watch your temper and your mouth,” Finch said. “I hired him for his foot and not his mouth.  Hopefully we can get him controlled. He’s got a long way to come. He’s got to show people he’s going to be a driver. And show NASCAR that he’s a driver, and he’s going to do what’s expected as a driver.” These comments sound as though Finch will not tolerate much of the same problems from Kurt and certainly appears to be a better fit to ensure Kurt makes the behavior changes needed to bring greater success to his career. So again, much like his brother Kyle, the reality is that addressing personal issues is a must for their future within the sport. 

Kurt and Kyle have both been given another chance to prove themselves on a more personal level by addressing their anger management. Both are supported by teams with top-level equipment, keeping in mind that Phoenix Racing has a partnership with Hendrick Motorsports.  Along with their talent, they have every reason to be successful for many years to come, provided they truly meet their challenges head on and address them in a positive manner.  As fans, we “get it” that it won’t necessarily be easy nor will it be without an occasional, and hopefully rare slip backward, but we do have high expectations for a positive outcome.

As with many reality shows, fans relate to the challenges presented, because we have our own problems to cope with and overcome. And this is the time of year to make our own resolutions for change to improve our lives too. Fans want to be personally successful and we pull for others to meet and exceed their challenges too.  The issues may not be exactly the same, but the desire to overcome is the same and it’s why we continue to be invested in watching reality shows play out their stories. 

What will 2012 bring for the Busch Brothers?
The NASCAR Busch Brothers reality show will continue in 2012 and beyond.  Even if you’re not their fan, many people want to see Kurt and Kyle overcome their issues and succeed in their careers. Most like happy endings, especially those rooted in reality.  Fans understand the Busch brothers’ intense desire for winning and acknowledge their talent. Most recognize when these brothers overcome their problems and keep their intensity to win on a positive note, they will be an unstoppable force within the sport. Fans also recognize they have tried and failed more than once to address their anger management issues.

So as we consider our own resolutions and those of the Busch Brothers, there is an element of interest in finding out what happens next for Kurt and Kyle. The importance of their personal attention and commitment to change behavior will be the key that will determine not only the future of their racing careers, but of personal lives as well. Come next year, fans will be tuning in for the next episode of the Busch Brothers reality show with anticipation to find out how their stories continue to unfold within the NASCAR world of racing.

NOTE to Readers: The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author and not intended to represent all NASCAR fans. Although some will agree with this perspective, it is recognized that others will not. For those who disagree with the perspective presented here, you are encouraged to submit a counter-point perspective. Whether you agree or not, everyone is encouraged to respectfully state your view via the comments section below. To submit a count-point article, please see submission details via the SUGGESTION BOX tab. 

As always, Thanks for reading and participating in the Fan4Racing blog site.  
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A career making opportunity for Allmendinger

AJ Allmendinger NASCAR Daytona Speedweek
February 18, 2011 – Day 7
(Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images North America)

Sometimes silly seasons get too silly. And such is the case for the offseason between 2011 and 2012. Scenarios no one could have predicted are happening and opening the door for some drivers to prove themselves. For AJ Allmendinger, silly season has handed him the best chance of his career when recently named as driver of the #22 Dodge at Penske Racing.
To date Allmendinger has had an up and down NASCAR Sprint Cup Series career. He began in 2007 but struggled, ultimately being replaced at Red Bull Racing near the end of the season. Allmendinger did not give up despite the difficult start to his NASCAR career and has since proven himself worthy of competing at the top level, spending the last few seasons at Richard Petty Motorsports. In fact, 2011 was his best season to date accumulating one top-five, ten top-tens, and a career best 15th place points finish. While there is still room for improvement, each season continues to get better for Allmendinger. From a 42nd place points finish in 2007 to 15th in 2011 shows Allmendinger is on track to make the most of his most recent team change and perhaps contend in the chase for the first time in his career.
AJ will team up with Brad Keselowski, who won multiple races and made the chase in 2011, along with his Penske teammate. There’s no doubt that Penske Racing is a top organization that has the tools to contend for a championship in 2012. For AJ Allmendinger, it’s undoubtedly his best chance yet at becoming a NASCAR Sprint Cup Series winner and be a consistent front runner week in and week out. Allmendinger will have a new crew chief in Todd Gordon, who most recently led the #22 Nationwide team for Penske, winning five races with Keselowski. It may take a few races to get acclimated, but one has to believe this pairing can be successful as the 2012 season gets underway.
For AJ Allmendinger, it’s truly a spectacular opportunity that will undoubtedly determine his longevity as a successful driver in NASCAR. The 2012 season certainly has all the makings to be his breakout season.
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