Danica Closer to AGR deal

[indycool]

It appears Danica is looking toward staying with AGR......

http://www.versus.com/nw/article/view/82210/?tf=bruce_martin.tpl

[SarahFan]

Eagle Eye?

Youhave been insistant that 'Danica: The Brand' is signed sealed and delivered to NASCAR

Do still maintain that to be the case?

[MDS]

He'll find some what to walk away from it and still maintain his "Insider" status.

Honestly, I don't really care for Dancia, but it would be a bad idea for her to go to NASCAR. Yes she would get paid more, but she's run notably better this year and is on the cusp of being able to compete for race wins and should be better positioned at AGR next year if the team has less drama and tension and drivers with more setup skill like Franck Montagny. If she goes to NASCAR she'll have a year in the Nationwide series and even then I doubt she'll be a primary driver with one of the big teams, and she'll be lucky to have a Casey Mears kind of career

[TURN3]

He'll find some what to walk away from it and still maintain his "Insider" status.

Honestly, I don't really care for Dancia, but it would be a bad idea for her to go to NASCAR. Yes she would get paid more, but she's run notably better this year and is on the cusp of being able to compete for race wins and should be better positioned at AGR next year if the team has less drama and tension and drivers with more setup skill like Franck Montagny. If she goes to NASCAR she'll have a year in the Nationwide series and even then I doubt she'll be a primary driver with one of the big teams, and she'll be lucky to have a Casey Mears kind of career

I called months ago that she wasn't going anywhere...it just makes NO sense. Too many things don't add up. AGR is the best team in need of her money in any series including drag racing and indy lights. It's painfully obvious she has zero talent and therefore making a NASCAR transition is way out of the question. If she or anybody else can't see that then they are just plain as incompetent as she is setting up a car. I truly can't see her driving for Chip because she can't compete for a championship and she can't sniff the top 20 on road courses on a regular basis. Chip isn't going to run at the back over half the races and not have both his cars near the front. I think and have thought his flirtation with the no talent one has been an effort to drive up Mikey's offer and ultimately render them much less competitive due to finances.

She stays at AGR and they likely try for 4 cars and SHOULD run 3 if they were smart. With Marco and Danica, they stand no chance of getting to the front and competing for race wins regularly. I'm past believing TK is a master at setting up a car also but he does have the talent. They need developement input to supplement him and they need to throw anything Danica and Marco have out the window. They could improve slightly for next year but doubtful...other teams will likely keep getting stronger too.

[beachbum]

I think one part of her quote is telling "There have been no contracts that have been put out there". While her brand managers have been touting how valuable she would be in NASCAR and some fans are suggesting she should go here or there, it is all about teams making contract offers. It sounds like she has 1 - AGR. If she doesn't go for that, she might be left standing when the music stops.

[Jag_Warrior]

With Harvick making noise about wanting to leave RCR, I'm surprised Childress wouldn't try to pick up this little hot shoe, speed demon. I mean, she only very recently admitted that she might need to spend some time in the Nationwide Series. Before that, she believed that she could leap right into a Nextel Cup car and be right where she needed to be. Just because Montoya, Franchitti, Speed, Hornish and Allmendinger had to spend some time in lower stock car formulas, that didn't mean that she would need to. Cause, afterall, she's The Danica... and she's just awesome like that. :rolleyes:

I want her to go to NASCAR so bad I can taste it. And for the fans that want her to stick with the IRL, that's OK - cause she'd be right back in an IRL car within 6-12 months. I wish I could sell her ass for what she thinks she's worth and buy her back for her actual value (as a pure racer, not a bikini model/PR freak show). I could start my own F1 team and fund it for years on the interest alone.

[SarahFan]

With Harvick making noise about wanting to leave RCR, I'm surprised Childress wouldn't try to pick up this little hot shoe, speed demon. I mean, she only very recently admitted that she might need to spend some time in the Nationwide Series. Before that, she believed that she could leap right into a Nextel Cup car and be right where she needed to be. Just because Montoya, Franchitti, Speed, Hornish and Allmendinger had to spend some time in lower stock car formulas, that didn't mean that she would need to. Cause, afterall, she's The Danica... and she's just awesome like that. :rolleyes:

I want her to go to NASCAR so bad I can taste it. And for the fans that want her to stick with the IRL, that's OK - cause she'd be right back in an IRL car within 6-12 months. I wish I could sell her ass for what she thinks she's worth and buy her back for her actual value (as a pure racer, not a bikini model/PR freak show). I could start my own F1 team and fund it for years on the interest alone.

IndyCar/F1/NASCAR: Where Will Danica Patrick Race In 2010 ???
Indexed: Fri Jun 26, 2009 @ 01:15:09PM 1 month 3 weeks ago
Here we go again.... Rumors continue to swirl around swimsuit model Danica Patrick, and where she might be headed to race for 2010 and beyond.



^above is my favorite opening so far from an on-line article.....

[EagleEye]

He'll find some what to walk away from it and still maintain his "Insider" status.



I maintain she is signed, sealed and gone to NASCAR. AR will be a two-three car team.

There are some things going on with Honda and the IRL to try and get her to "change" he mind.

I have been wanting to do a "silly season" post, but at there is a lot going at the momment.

[SarahFan]

I maintain she is signed, sealed and gone to NASCAR. AR will be a two-three car team.

There are some things going on with Honda and the IRL to try and get her to "change" he mind.

I have been wanting to do a "silly season" post, but at there is a lot going at the momment.



Thanks EE.... I always apreciate your straight forwardness

[SarahFan]

http://www.thenascarinsiders.com/2009/04/22/why-danica-patrick-is-not-coming-to-nascar/

^ above is an interesting article.....it was writen a few months back... and probably read by a few of you.....

anywhoos.... the 'wheres danica:the brand land' game should come to an end soon....I hope so anyhow... as i suspect there are other racers who need to find solid rides for 2010 and danica is likely the domino that sets things in motion

[TURN3]

(as a pure racer, not a bikini model/PR freak show).

I'd like to point out that as a swimsuit model...she's only popular because she has funding to put her in a race car. Anybody see the picture she posted of herself on her twitter account...but ugly without the makeup and airbrushing.

[grungex]

Woof!

http://twitpic.com/8j4j3

[Jag_Warrior]

Woof!

http://twitpic.com/8j4j3

A spot of Clearasil will knock that big ass zit right out. She might even get them as a sponsor! :D

[Jag_Warrior]

I maintain she is signed, sealed and gone to NASCAR. AR will be a two-three car team.

There are some things going on with Honda and the IRL to try and get her to "change" he mind.

I have been wanting to do a "silly season" post, but at there is a lot going at the momment.

Danica --> NASCAR.

Please let this happen. Please let this happen. PLEASE let this happen! :bounce:

[MDS]

I maintain she is signed, sealed and gone to NASCAR. AR will be a two-three car team.

There are some things going on with Honda and the IRL to try and get her to "change" he mind.

I have been wanting to do a "silly season" post, but at there is a lot going at the momment.

Yeah, like how you reported that NHL to the IRL was done deal in 2007 before the merger.

If you've got this inside info, which team is she going to, and who is going to sponsor her?

Seriously, you sound like a psychic the way you give minimal information so that way if something similar happens you sound like you knew all along.

[TURN3]

Yeah, like how you reported that NHL to the IRL was done deal in 2007 before the merger.

If you've got this inside info, which team is she going to, and who is going to sponsor her?

Seriously, you sound like a psychic the way you give minimal information so that way if something similar happens you sound like you knew all along.

That is so when he's wrong 90% of the time he has an out. She's not going to NASCAR. Anybody with half a brain can use nothing more than common sense and see why both sides of that equation don't work. What surprises me is that people like Andretti believe it. Somebody needs to call her bluff and leave her on the sidelines where she belongs.

[TURN3]

So EE, the news appears to be breaking right now on Twitter by Curt Cavin that Danica is staying at AGR. Deal done, paperwork to be finalized.

So how is it you like your crow served?

[speeddurango]

Going to NASCAR, switching to Ganassi, staying at AGR might possibly be the worst choice of all. All her words were focused on sponsorship, well in Danica's case, it shouldn't be a matter of finding money to have a car, but rather a matter of salaries, I don't understand why she wouldn't want some real chances of oval wins with Ganassi.

[NickFalzone]

Going to NASCAR, switching to Ganassi, staying at AGR might possibly be the worst choice of all. All her words were focused on sponsorship, well in Danica's case, it shouldn't be a matter of finding money to have a car, but rather a matter of salaries, I don't understand why she wouldn't want some real chances of oval wins with Ganassi.

You're assuming that Ganassi, or anyone other than AGR, offered her a decent deal. Seems to me that AGR is the only one that really pursued her for 2010, or offered the best package $$ and otherwise. I'm very surprised at this, but as Turn3 said, Cavin is reporting AGR as a done deal.

[Easy Drifter]

Right now Chip has two proven winners. If one leaves then he will want another proven winner, or someone with real potential to be one.
'Stompin Danica' does not fit that bill.
Taxi Cab racing? I very much doubt it.
She does not appear to like really close wheel to wheel racing for more than a lap or two at the best. That is a fact of life with the taxi cabs.
Sheer physical strength and endurance.
There is no power steering in those cars as far as I know.
She is quite small and I doubt she has the strength to last 500 miles in stockers especially on tracks like Bristol, Martinsville or the road courses.
This is not a knock at women drivers as other women have been quite good in the taxi cabs.
(I refuse to us the proper name for the taxi cabs and a moderator won't let me use my favourite term and I followed them in the 50's.)
Basically AGR is her best bet and most likely bet as Mikey does not apear to be the sharpest knife in the drawer but sponsorship money talks, especially if some can be moved to other parts of the operation.
OK everybody tear me apart. I know DF would but we have lost him.
I know one forum he posts on and he has toned it down a bit there.

[Jag_Warrior]

DanicaFan has taken a powder?! Well, that's really too bad. See, I thought he was kind of fun - and I don't mean that in a mean way. He had a lot of passion.

[Hoop-98]

Just FYI, NASCAR and Sprinters and most Late Models etc have Power Steering, actual Hydraulic Type, F1 has it too.


rh

[V12]

Danica --> NASCAR.

Please let this happen. Please let this happen. PLEASE let this happen! :bounce:

:up: :up: :up:

[EagleEye]

He'll find some what to walk away from it and still maintain his "Insider" status.

Honestly, I don't really care for Dancia, but it would be a bad idea for her to go to NASCAR. Yes she would get paid more, but she's run notably better this year and is on the cusp of being able to compete for race wins and should be better positioned at AGR next year if the team has less drama and tension and drivers with more setup skill like Franck Montagny. If she goes to NASCAR she'll have a year in the Nationwide series and even then I doubt she'll be a primary driver with one of the big teams, and she'll be lucky to have a Casey Mears kind of career

I did not realize you lived in such a perfect place, where everything remains the same, and nothing ever changes. How good for you!

So, all the reporters and people who were told by Brett Favre himself that he was retired are now wrong. Maybe in your utopia he never retired, or even better, stayed retired.

There have been a just a few changes since I was told by her father she was off to NASCAR. Maybe you did not hear but there were just a few changes recently with Chevy that kinda changed things a bit. Now that GM has new leadership (God help them) there has been some changes.

Changes happen, and as we all a know a few bucks thrown here or there can change the balance at any time. XXX not only lost a bit of money, they lost enough that they could not honor the contract. Not only with Ms. Patrick, but with ther primary driver as well. Things are still in play, and though the players have changed, some things have yet to be settled.

But I do appreicate the you pointing out that I did say that NHL was going to run in the IRL (which they did), but you forgot to mention all the others firsts (Phoenix GP canceled, Las Vegas canceled, Champcar not making it after LB (long before the merger) and the list goes on and on.

You were probably one of the guys who used to like arguing about how many fans were at an event, based on your "expert" knowledge gathered from your couch.

If you don't care to know what Canadian will be driving in the series next year and for whom (not named PT, Tags, or Ranger, btw) or what exactly is going to be annouced by SF today (I'll be there btw, so maybe we can chat!) I'll just continue to report "elsehwere".

As for AR, there are several scenarios in play. If DP stays, they will be a four car team (DP, Marco, TK and FM). If she does move on, things become a bit more cloudy. They would be at least a two car team, maybe three. Don't be shocked if TK ends up at Ganassi, as he would have to buy out the contract from AR (becuase if DP leaves and Formula Dream $$ leaving, money could be an issue. Moraes and Dunno brining money could still be possible, again if DP moves on. Moraes has been talking to them for some time.

[garyshell]

[Posted on Aug 22]I maintain she is signed, sealed and gone to NASCAR. AR will be a two-three car team.

There are some things going on with Honda and the IRL to try and get her to "change" he mind.

I have been wanting to do a "silly season" post, but at there is a lot going at the momment.


[Posted on Aug 24]There have been a just a few changes since I was told by her father she was off to NASCAR. Maybe you did not hear but there were just a few changes recently with Chevy that kinda changed things a bit. Now that GM has new leadership (God help them) there has been some changes.

Damn, a lot sure has happened in the PAST TWO DAYS, huh? Look at the date of your last post. You were so sure she was signed sealed and delivered two days ago, now you are talking about things that have been happening for months as if they were things that happened in the last two days.

Look, I do appreciate the insights you bring here. But really, is it so hard to say, "Hmmm, looks like I was wrong"? Instead, we get this puffed out chest speech about all the times you were right as you back pedal the very statement you made with such absolute certainty only two days ago.

Gary

[MDS]

Be where? I don't think she's hosting a presser, just putting out a release.

Sarah announced via-twitter at like 7 a.m. this morning she was painting her car pink as part of a fundraiser for the Susan G. Koleman foundation. Good for her, but hardly "Big" news, can't blame her for promoting it though.

[Mark in Oshawa]

We lost DF?? I wondered where he stood on this....lol

Danica wasn't going ANYWHERE. No one in NASCAR needs sponsors so bad that they would put Danica in a car that she would tear up on a regular basis and likely be life and death to keep in the top 35.

Jag...I didn't want her in NASCAR because I didn't want to hear the hype until she got behind the wheel and fell flat on her @ss.

She proved it yesterday at Infineon. She cannot run road courses, and THAT is one of the ways for an OW driver to wedge a foot in the door with a NASCAR team, that is be a "ringer"

BTW drifter, Taxicabs do have power steering, but if you watch any NASCAR at all, you notice those guys are still whipped after a run at Bristol or Martinsville. The COT is a handful, and I think Danica would be lost.....

Her attitude stunk too. No one in NASCAR with a team would have stood for her stance it was Cup or nothing. She only started talking about going to the Nationwide cars when it was clear no one was buying her BS.....

Danica's opinion of her ability is dangerous......and no one outside of Mike Andretti seems to buy her crap no more.

[NickFalzone]

I'm certainly not going to suggest DP would have any success in NASCAR, but I don't think that it being too "physical" is what would hurt her chances. Ever watch the in-car cams on the IRL road courses? You can't tell me that's less physical than what the NASCAR drivers are doing, and it's at much higher g-forces. The reasons why she would not do well in NASCAR are too numerous to mention here, but the physicality of the driving, or her fitness, are IMO not a factor.

[TURN3]

Danica's opinion of her ability is dangerous......and no one outside of Mike Andretti seems to buy her crap no more.

Very well put, which is what common sense has said all along.

EE, sorry to say but your foot is in your mouth on this. You can't state that a contract has been signed and sealed then say things changed...c'mon. From my point of view, which does not include any inside information, this was obvious the ENTIRE time and you just got dooped.

[indycool]

Maybe Danica's opinion of herself is over the top, but how many racers have we seen who tell us they could be stars with money? Really, she's won a race, usually qualifies well, doesn't crash much and lets races come back to her most of the time and that's why she's fifth in the point standings. That's neither a dominatrix or a backmarker and I know a lot of drivers who'd like to be fifth in points.

[Easy Drifter]

DF is on another forum I post on. He was getting the same reaction there and after a few people suggested he tone it down (which was also done here) he seems to have. I believe he is on at least a couple of other forums as well.

On power steering--my bad.

[Hoop-98]

DF is on another forum I post on. He was getting the same reaction there and after a few people suggested he tone it down (which was also done here) he seems to have. I believe he is on at least a couple of other forums as well.

On power steering--my bad.

NP ED (yikes bad initials) back when I drove (think Coliseum) we used our shoulders and arms, and were holding onto the wheel to keep from sliding off the seat.

Eventually we discovered if you were seated firmly you could steer better.

And with power steering you could steer with wrists instead of shoulders.

So PS became big in the 80's.

rh

[Jag_Warrior]

Maybe Danica's opinion of herself is over the top, but how many racers have we seen who tell us they could be stars with money? Really, she's won a race, usually qualifies well, doesn't crash much and lets races come back to her most of the time and that's why she's fifth in the point standings. That's neither a dominatrix or a backmarker and I know a lot of drivers who'd like to be fifth in points.

Much of what you're saying is actually true, IC. I think what gets a lot of people (myself, anyway) amped up about Danica is that she's soooo far over the top on her opinion of herself, it's rather amazing. Yes, Danica has won a race. But not just one race in the IRL. That's the only automobile race that's she's EVER won outright. So that begs the question: why would a person who, at the age of 27+, has won exactly one car race in her entire life, and has never won a championship (in a car), think that she was ready to jump straight into a Nextel Cup car? Why, when open wheel champions and/or experienced winners, such as Montoya, Hornish, Franchitti and Allmendinger all made their way up to Cup by gaining experience in Busch/Nationwide? What does she smoke? How big is her head?

She didn't yammer quite as much about F1, but the same delusional thought pattern seemed to afflict her on that topic too. Danica would have done well to hang on in GP2, I figure. She is just not that (consistently) impressive on road courses. With the exact right setup and the wind blowing just right, she has shown flashes of competence, but no flashes of brilliance, that I'm aware of. She doesn't truly suck, but outside of some good pit strategy this year, why would she think she should/could even be on the same track with the likes of those F1 drivers who have actually won road course races and/or championships in formula cars? There are still some half-baked ride buyers in F1 - though not many this year. But can anyone name even one F1 driver who has not won at least one road course race in some open wheel formula? Can anyone here name at least one NASCAR Nextel Cup driver who has not won at least one stock car race in his life??? And how many stock cars has she even driven? So whether in F1 or NASCAR, that would be The Danica. I don't get it. Well, I do get it (I saw the bikini pics too), but let's be real.

Oh yes, I soooo want her to go to NASCAR!!! I get a warm feeling in a naughty place just thinking about it. You go, girl!!! :devil:

[indycool]

Her performance, compared to "like" performance in Nextel Cup or F1, ain't the same, I agree. But when guys like Guerrero, Boesel, etc., were running Indycars, they weren't F1 race winners, either. F2 or F3, probably yes. IMO, she deserves to be about where she's at in the championship. Probably a few better shoes with bad luck and worse ones with good luck.

[grungex]

Oh yes, I soooo want her to go to NASCAR!!! I get a warm feeling in a naughty place just thinking about it. You go, girl!!! :devil:

:p : :p : :p :

[TURN3]

I have mixed feelings. On one hand, if she would've somehow found a sucker to take her in NASCAR the way AGR did, she would've failed miserably (I think outside of herself that is a universal given). She fails in NASCAR then the Danica Brand is history and we don't have to deal with it any longer. Plus, the hope is that would open up a fairly quality seat for a truly talented driver.

On the other hand, I have five fingers as Steven Wright once said! Seriously, I'm sort of glad to see her stay at AGR. She's contributed heavily to their demise so lets give her another shot at 27 years old to see how much further she can sink before they give her the boot. When she came to AGR, they were part of the big 3. Steadily, they've declined largely because they have 3 clueless drivers with very little skill. I also believe that driver after driver has left due to the "chemistry" on that team. The fact that TK stayed despite this lack of chemistry is a mystery known as loyalty that I'm afraid TK will never be repaid for. When the Danica got to AGR all the talk was of how competitive she'd be and how many races she was going to win, etc. etc. We have our answers and then some. So what does she have left to lose? Nothing, she's already made her bed and now its time to see if she can wake up. My guess, with an occasional bout of hitting a set-up right on the money and an occosional strategy call to produce a good result, we'll see exactly what we've seen her entire professional and amatuer career.

[SarahFan]

Her performance, compared to "like" performance in Nextel Cup or F1, ain't the same, I agree. But when guys like Guerrero, Boesel, etc., were running Indycars, they weren't F1 race winners, either. F2 or F3, probably yes. IMO, she deserves to be about where she's at in the championship. Probably a few better shoes with bad luck and worse ones with good luck.



Worse one with bad luck?

Helio Scott dario and/ or Ryan?

[indycool]

You're probably right this year, Ken. In other years, there seem to have been a few. Certainly the four above her now deserve to be there.

[Mark in Oshawa]

I know why she is 5th in points. Because the quality of drivers on ovals is thin. The Justin Wilson's and the like are not threats on the ovals but he and Will Power make the road races a much deeper field. Danica is good on ovals and they are enough of the sched that she can hang around and get good points days.

She isn't as good as the points show, she isn't as good as she thinks she is, and I will say again, she doesn't have that ride without the look. Katharine Legge won 3 races in Atlantic in bigger fields and she cant buy a break...

not that she would survive either, but unlike Danica, she didn't get there by doing cheesecake photos...

[Easy Drifter]

I think the 'Danica Brand' has discovered she very few viable options left.

Katherine Legge is at least making a living in the DTM although a mid field runner at best. That is one tough series and unless you have the latest car very hard to shine.

[NickFalzone]

Someone earlier posted an "average finishes" summary of the top drivers on roads/streets. Where was Danica on this list? I'm curious as to how her oval finishes avg. compares to her road/street avg.

[harvick#1]

I know why she is 5th in points. Because the quality of drivers on ovals is thin. The Justin Wilson's and the like are not threats on the ovals but he and Will Power make the road races a much deeper field. Danica is good on ovals and they are enough of the sched that she can hang around and get good points days.

She isn't as good as the points show, she isn't as good as she thinks she is, and I will say again, she doesn't have that ride without the look. Katharine Legge won 3 races in Atlantic in bigger fields and she cant buy a break...

not that she would survive either, but unlike Danica, she didn't get there by doing cheesecake photos...

this is one of the few things I have to agree with Mark on :p :

and which is a big reason why I'm a big Sarah Fisher and Katherine Legge fan, and despise Danica. while there racing their hearts out, Danica can't wait for the next photoshoot. I wish Danica would've come to Nascar so by the 6th race, her ass would've been sent home because she wasn't fast enough. or I'd like to see her go to Martinsville and run 500 laps. and Talladega, that would just be scary, she shouldn't be allowed to race a plate race



Katherine Legge is at least making a living in the DTM although a mid field runner at best. That is one tough series and unless you have the latest car very hard to shine.

shes also competing in the DTM in a year old Spec Audi, which is a pretty big disadvantage when you have to run against the factory Audi and Merc drivers

[TURN3]

That hope would be mistaken. The seat exists because she brought $$$ to the team. Without her ($$$) there is no 4th car and probably part of a third car. Her package, if I recall correctly, was for more than the cost of just her car - 7 mil a year.

Yep, very true. Good point.

[beachbum]

this is one of the few things I have to agree with Mark on :p :

and which is a big reason why I'm a big Sarah Fisher and Katherine Legge fan, and despise Danica. while there racing their hearts out, Danica can't wait for the next photoshoot. I wish Danica would've come to Nascar so by the 6th race, her ass would've been sent home because she wasn't fast enough. or I'd like to see her go to Martinsville and run 500 laps. and Talladega, that would just be scary, she shouldn't be allowed to race a plate race



Katherine Legge is at least making a living in the DTM although a mid field runner at best. That is one tough series and unless you have the latest car very hard to shine.
shes also competing in the DTM in a year old Spec Audi, which is a pretty big disadvantage when you have to run against the factory Audi and Merc driversKaterine has the championship winning car from last year, is running as part of the Audi factory team, and the 2008 spec Audis are generally considered to be almost equal to the 2009. While she has been "mid-pack", the mid-pack consists of drivers like Ralf Shumacher. She also has the fastest lap at one race, so she is doing just fine and Audi seems very happy with her.

[TURN3]

Remember KL's horrific crash at RA when the wing collapsed on her Lola? Like a true racer, she got right back in it. I doubt Danica would've ever gotten back in a car and if so, she would definately have been scared into a Milka clone.

[DanicaFan]

Im not officially back but I wanted to post on this topic...

Danica Patrick will resign with Andretti Green Racing at least through next year. The deal is done but the paperwork hasnt been finalized.

Boost Mobile will be her primary sponsor again.

I am very excited about this. After talking to her this year, I felt that she would stay with AGR, definitely the IRL. She loves indycars.

Her staying made me very happy and now next year we can see her really buckle down and win several races. I look for her to be a contender for the championship next year.

Everyone, enjoy the rest of the season. Im out... :D

[Jag_Warrior]

Im not officially back but I wanted to post on this topic...

Danica Patrick will resign with Andretti Green Racing at least through next year. The deal is done but the paperwork hasnt been finalized.

Boost Mobile will be her primary sponsor again.

I am very excited about this. After talking to her this year, I felt that she would stay with AGR, definitely the IRL. She loves indycars.

Her staying made me very happy and now next year we can see her really buckle down and win several races. I look for her to be a contender for the championship next year.

Everyone, enjoy the rest of the season. Im out... :D

Ah, come on back, dude. It's all in fun.

[Easy Drifter]

Turn 3 I disagree about 'Stompin Danica' being afraid to get back in a car. She has had a fair number of crashes, admittedly none like Katherine's.
You know I don't think much of DP as a driver and she does seem gun shy in heavy traffic, although she will run close to one car for a while, but usually drops back.
I know this past weekend she had a damaged car to start but she never made any progress. She did beat Milka but that was all. Several other drivers made progress from the back. I know she went a lap down but she should have made that up on some people.
I just think she would get back in after a big one and run the way she does now. Fairly fast on the ovals but not a real racer.
Her apparent dislike of really tight racing for any length of time is another reason I don't think she could cut it in the Taxicabs.

[TURN3]

Im not officially back but I wanted to post on this topic...

Danica Patrick will resign with Andretti Green Racing at least through next year. The deal is done but the paperwork hasnt been finalized.

Boost Mobile will be her primary sponsor again.

I am very excited about this. After talking to her this year, I felt that she would stay with AGR, definitely the IRL. She loves indycars.

Her staying made me very happy and now next year we can see her really buckle down and win several races. I look for her to be a contender for the championship next year.

Everyone, enjoy the rest of the season. Im out... :D

I'd like for you to stay for the entertainment value but can you please tell me what part of your post we didn't already know?

As for winning several races and contending for a championship, well.... :D :D :D :D ! Why would you expect any change?

[indycool]

With Danica, you're either for her or against her -- there's no in-between. This discussion (or argument) will/could go on forever. The first gripe was that she didn't win in Atlantics. Then she won Indy car poles. Then the second gripe was that she didn't win races. She won a race. For those who dislike her, if she won every race, they'd STILL dislike her for one reason or another.

In every series, there's a "bad guy." In Indy cars, it's been people like Hiro Matsushia (who eventually made the show at Indianapolis when the Penske team was shut out of a starting spot) to Dr. Jack Miller (who was always a good qualifier but not much of a racer) to Milka Duno.

When Darrell Waltrip won his championships, he got booed everywhere -- even though he was a winner and his wife taught special needs children and they established foundations for them. Bill Freehan, the ex-Detroit Tiger catcher, was booed at home even though he bought property, built diamonds and started baseball leagues all over Detroit. Gary Bergman, the former Detroit Red Wing defenseman, was booed at home lustily even though he and his wife spearheaded the muscular dystrophy campaign in Detroit ACTIVELY.

So, Danica? She's won poles. She's started on the front row. She's won a race. She's fifth in points and the leading AGR driver in points. She throws tantrums. She isn't really a crasher. She models. She's on commercials. Unlike some volleyball players, Olympians, etc., she's never bared it all. She doesn't smile very often, the direct opposite of Helio, for example....but neither did A.J. Foyt.

You'll like her or you won't. And that's what this thread is all about, I guess.

[beachbum]

Im not officially back but I wanted to post on this topic...

Danica Patrick will resign with Andretti Green Racing at least through next year. The deal is done but the paperwork hasnt been finalized.

Boost Mobile will be her primary sponsor again.

I am very excited about this. After talking to her this year, I felt that she would stay with AGR, definitely the IRL. She loves indycars.

Her staying made me very happy and now next year we can see her really buckle down and win several races. I look for her to be a contender for the championship next year.

Everyone, enjoy the rest of the season. Im out... :D Thanks DF. That fits with all of the other rumors, although a 1 year contract is a bit of a surprise.

[DBell]

Thanks DF. That fits with all of the other rumors, although a 1 year contract is a bit of a surprise.

It wouldn't surprise me if the length of her contract coincides with the length of the sponsor deal they are able to get.

[beachbum]

With Danica, you're either for her or against her -- there's no in-between. This discussion (or argument) will/could go on forever. The first gripe was that she didn't win in Atlantics. Then she won Indy car poles. Then the second gripe was that she didn't win races. She won a race. For those who dislike her, if she won every race, they'd STILL dislike her for one reason or another.

In every series, there's a "bad guy." In Indy cars, it's been people like Hiro Matsushia (who eventually made the show at Indianapolis when the Penske team was shut out of a starting spot) to Dr. Jack Miller (who was always a good qualifier but not much of a racer) to Milka Duno.

When Darrell Waltrip won his championships, he got booed everywhere -- even though he was a winner and his wife taught special needs children and they established foundations for them. Bill Freehan, the ex-Detroit Tiger catcher, was booed at home even though he bought property, built diamonds and started baseball leagues all over Detroit. Gary Bergman, the former Detroit Red Wing defenseman, was booed at home lustily even though he and his wife spearheaded the muscular dystrophy campaign in Detroit ACTIVELY.

So, Danica? She's won poles. She's started on the front row. She's won a race. She's fifth in points and the leading AGR driver in points. She throws tantrums. She isn't really a crasher. She models. She's on commercials. Unlike some volleyball players, Olympians, etc., she's never bared it all. She doesn't smile very often, the direct opposite of Helio, for example....but neither did A.J. Foyt.

You'll like her or you won't. And that's what this thread is all about, I guess.You are right, there is no middle ground with DP. But your comparisons don't work. King Hiro won races before the IRL. Dr Jack was never more than a back of the pack driver like Milka. Waltrip, Freehan, Bergman, even Foyt did a lot for their communities behind the scenes (Foyt's community being the racing world). Danica has done none of these. She is all about HER brand, not helping others.

There is no doubt that Danica can drive, and she can be fast. She definitely has talent behind the wheel. But she can also be erratic and doesn't seem to race well, particularly in close quarters. Like Marco, she came in with lots of apparent talent, but after all of the years, she hasn't really improved and has become less competitive on road courses over time. This year she has at least stayed out of trouble most of the time and has worked hard to play down her childish bad girl image. From most reports, she is still difficult to work with and admits she knows nothing about mechanical things and can't set up a car. But those characteristics fit a number of drivers.

So why does she turn people off? IHMO, there are several reasons.

1. The hype. Ever since she went to England to run FF, her marketing machine made sometimes wild claims about what she was going to do and how good she was. When someone like Bernie has to send out a press report denying he ever endorsed her (as stated by her PR), her marketing hype went over the line into fantasy. Since then there have been many such "issues" such as when her brand managers claimed she had a offer from Roush (denied in a press release by Jack).

2. How she promoted herself. There is nothing wrong with modeling, but some of her early work was a "bit " suggestive. She has never quite bared it all, but very close. Even so, what bothers people like me is her getting attention for that instead of her racing record. I worked with a female professional racer who just wanted to be taken seriously as a racer, not as a curiosity. Danica's playing of the sex card is offensive to them. She is sometimes better known for dragging Tom Kendall around on a leash and posing for SI than her success on the track. Google her, and the first thing that comes up are her photo shoots. Just what is important to her?

3. Her racing record in her primary series. Contrary to the hype, her record isn't very stellar. Even back in karts, she had a good record, but there were many with much better records - like Sam Hornish, Sarah Fisher and a number of drivers now in NASCAR and other series. Other than one result in FF, her record there wasn't noteworthy as a driver. Many tout her result at Long Beach in the celebrity race, and forget a celebrity won overall - going away - and Sarah Fisher (who had never road raced a car) ran with them until she decide to back off. DP was good in Atlantics, but couldn't win. Her forays into other series like ALMS and Grand-Am did nothing noteworthy - in a positive sense.

4. The fact she has never had to work her way up. Look back over her career, and when did she have to struggle in a back marker team and learn to carry the car and push to the edge? In FF, she started with one of the best teams, who didn't renew her contract - clue? From there, her next stop was with Rahal, who gave her the very best in every series. Even Robert Clark from Honda admitted on Windtunnel (to Dave's amazement) that they gave DP the best engines so she would do well. From there, she landed at AGR at the height of their success.

5. Her record outside of the IRL. Admittedly, she has done very little outside of the IRL. But Rahal did get her some tryouts in a number of good cars, from Ford factory backed midgets to a Ford Busch series car and a factory backed BWM. The very few spotty reports indicate she did ok, but not outstanding. The only result was a job from BWM - giving rides to BWM customers. When Rahal managed to get her in a Pro-Drive Ferrari in ALMS, she was so far off the pace at Road Atlanta the team yanked her from the car before her stint was over and put her co-driver back in - who was very ill and really didn't want to drive. She was supposed to run other races for them, but that was quietly canceled. Her 2 runs in Grand-Am were noteworthy for her being faster that Rusty Wallace - who was well off the pace - and again being yanked from the car in her last outing at Daytona.

6. Her attitude and judgment. No much has to be said about that. She has a history of anger issues and sometimes seemed to promote a "wild child" image. She has often demonstrated questionable moves on track. This year she has done a lot better, but it is only one year - one where she needed a new contract.

Take away the hype and the opportunities she was handed by mentors, and what would you have? Probably a ex-driver no one would know about. IHMO, racing history may show how she maximized her assets and promoted them into a career far beyond the level her racing talents alone would have given her.

[indycool]

Your last paragraph says it all. Don't each of us maximize our assets and do our best to grow or better ourselves?

[garyshell]

Here is a link to set the record straight on her record:

http://www.driverdb.com/drivers/229/career/

It is pretty lack luster. Even more so than I ever thought. Her time in Europe was no where near as good as I thought it was. Guess I bought the early hype too much.

Gary

[SarahFan]

Her staying made me very happy and now next year we can see her really buckle down and win several races.

was there something specific that prevented her from 'buckling down and winning several races' this year?

[Jag_Warrior]

To be clear, part of it is that I don't like Danica at all (oh, cat's outta the bag now! :D ), and part of it is that I don't really respect Danica. I didn't like Tom Sneva. I didn't like Alain Prost. I didn't like Michael Schumacher. But I respected all three, because they were great drivers. I like Milka Duno. She's a super nice person. But I don't respect her as a driver... she's in way over hear head. This year included, Danica's career is that of an average driver, not a great driver. Only in her own swelled head is she something special (on the track). What sort of complete ego maniac would think that they were prepared for NASCAR, straight away, when they've NEVER done anything to suggest they were ready for top tier stock car racing? AND when other racers, with a much higher pedigree, did ARCA, Busch Series or Trucks before going to Cup? Apparently she was only cured of this delusional thinking when Ganassi opened her eyes to reality. But all we heard from The Danica was how high ratings would be if she went to NASCAR. And I think she's right. If she goes, it will produce another round of Danicamania - no doubt in my mind. Hell, I'll skip work to catch the qualifying (since I doubt she'll make many/any races).

Like I've told DanicaFan, I doubt that I'll ever like her... cause I think she's a swollen headed, little *****. But yeah, when she does well, I give her a grudging amount of respect. This year has been the best of her entire career in cars, IMO. For the most part, she has kept it together and been rather consistent. So, she doesn't have to defend that she's in the IRL. But for her to think that she is in any way ready for NASCAR (or F1), based on some middling performances and a single IRL oval win? :rolleyes:

Some people want to see her in a bikini. Not me - I'll see much hotter girls at the Labor Day party. I want to see Danica's azz at Bristol or Martinsville... when the hype goes to bed and the reality of the situation smacks her in the mouth. Sign that NASCAR contract, Danica!!! Remember, you are The Danica. You can dooooo it. Cause we all know, you're just awesome like that! :bounce:

[drewdawg727]

This post is mainly for Mark...because I feel like I have to disagree with him on what he has posted...




...She proved it yesterday at Infineon. She cannot run road courses, and THAT is one of the ways for an OW driver to wedge a foot in the door with a NASCAR team, that is be a "ringer" ....

....Her attitude stunk too. No one in NASCAR with a team would have stood for her stance it was Cup or nothing. She only started talking about going to the Nationwide cars when it was clear no one was buying her BS.....



What did she prove yesterday at Infineon? That she got ran off the road by Dan Wheldon and her RF got damaged? I would say look at the fact that she DID make the top 12, and although it was a really rotten idea for her to wait until the last 3 minutes of the session to go out and place a lap, she qualified her best on a road course this year. I think she would have done a fair job in the race if she was given the chance.

And what about her attitude stinks? I was an extreme Danica-hater before this year, but I have to admit that she has cooled off a lot and realized that there is more to racing than stomping and whining. I'm not her biggest fan now, and in fact I still think she has a lot to learn and mature, but look at how she has performed this year. 5th in points, that means something. She has kept her nose clean and performed better than we all expected her to. Give credit where credit is due man...which leads to your next quote:



I know why she is 5th in points. Because the quality of drivers on ovals is thin. The Justin Wilson's and the like are not threats on the ovals but he and Will Power make the road races a much deeper field. Danica is good on ovals and they are enough of the sched that she can hang around and get good points days.

She isn't as good as the points show, she isn't as good as she thinks she is, and I will say again, she doesn't have that ride without the look. Katharine Legge won 3 races in Atlantic in bigger fields and she cant buy a break...

If you remember, she has a win on an oval, fluke or not. She has 4 poles on ovals, she has top 5s in 4 of the first 5 races and is awfully close to everyone's favorite Indy 500 winner (yet never ICS champion!!!) in the points.

In order for Danica to keep stability in her racing life, she NEEDS to stay in ICS. And this is going to hurt, but the SERIES needs her to stick around also. We love to hate Danica because she is the main cause for drama and she is, like it or not, the figurehead of this series. We lose our figurehead, we lose all the creepy/stalker Danica fans (pun?) that are carrying our dreadful ratings.

I like that Danica is staying in the series. Give her one more year...see if AR can get someone on the team to set up cars again and we'll see what happens.

[SarahFan]

besides a spike surrounding her 4th place at Indy have ratings improved or declined while danimania has swept the nation?


as far as her going to nascar..... i think EE heard exactly what the plan was


the plan was to head on over to a top team for top dollar..... and i expect there was interest from nascar team owners....


but when said owners started shopping her to perspective sponsors the top dollar offers simply didn't happen

it will be interesting to see if we ever hear what Boost is paying for the season


I'd bet dollars to doughnuts it's not $7mil for the season

[SarahFan]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cYyKpucUS-c


^and i suspect the above was a linchpin in what essentially has become stalled negotiations for danicas people...


the fact that the attempt at Viral marketing failed miserably just shows she isn't nearly as marketable as (her) folks want her to be.....



and i believe Gary owes me a rootbeer!

[TURN3]

This post is mainly for Mark...because I feel like I have to disagree with him on what he has posted...



What did she prove yesterday at Infineon? That she got ran off the road by Dan Wheldon and her RF got damaged? I would say look at the fact that she DID make the top 12, and although it was a really rotten idea for her to wait until the last 3 minutes of the session to go out and place a lap, she qualified her best on a road course this year. I think she would have done a fair job in the race if she was given the chance.

And what about her attitude stinks? I was an extreme Danica-hater before this year, but I have to admit that she has cooled off a lot and realized that there is more to racing than stomping and whining. I'm not her biggest fan now, and in fact I still think she has a lot to learn and mature, but look at how she has performed this year. 5th in points, that means something. She has kept her nose clean and performed better than we all expected her to. Give credit where credit is due man...which leads to your next quote:



If you remember, she has a win on an oval, fluke or not. She has 4 poles on ovals, she has top 5s in 4 of the first 5 races and is awfully close to everyone's favorite Indy 500 winner (yet never ICS champion!!!) in the points.

In order for Danica to keep stability in her racing life, she NEEDS to stay in ICS. And this is going to hurt, but the SERIES needs her to stick around also. We love to hate Danica because she is the main cause for drama and she is, like it or not, the figurehead of this series. We lose our figurehead, we lose all the creepy/stalker Danica fans (pun?) that are carrying our dreadful ratings.

I like that Danica is staying in the series. Give her one more year...see if AR can get someone on the team to set up cars again and we'll see what happens.

I respect where you're coming from but lets not make excuses for her failures. She didn't get "run off the road by Wheldon". Granted it wasn't her fault but this is racing and if she didn't qualify a season best 11th on a road course she would never be in that situation. The fact her car was damaged cost her 1 lap but they fixed it and she went out to run for points. She had opportunities to race with packs on numerous occasions during the race and she was dusted by everybody on the track except Duno and Carpenter...AGAIN! At one point, she pitted with TK and they came out of the pits togethe on cold tires. I was curious so I paid attention. Nose to tail practically coming out of the pits and Danica was 6 seconds behind TK at the end of the out lap. This while she was desparately blocking a gaggle of faster cars being a lap down (all eventually got past).

The fact she even got into the 2nd round of qualifying was due to a very lucky draw on the groups. She used 2 sets of Reds to barely get in...which is why she didn't go out unti the end of R2, she had now tires left and had to wait. Where did she end up? When you have to spend every resource to qualify mid-pack and other suffer misfortune then you're not getting your job done. Also note by comparison to teammates, she was 5th out of 5. And this was her best RC qualifying effort of the year?

With respect to ovals, she generally has a car that should finish 5th to 8th in every session. to give the benefit of the doubt (including Rahal and Moraes) lets say to 10th. This due to the underfunded teams not having proper resources to compete on speedways. Where does she run almost all of the time? Back half of the top 10, usually 7th to 10th. Granted she finishes races and that improves her position in every race becase she rarely, and I mean rarely makes a pass on track. In other words, she underperforms relative to her equipment.

I like almost all of what I'm reading here. I can't stand her and my disdain for her is ever growing for reasons posted by my hero BB (although BB tried to credit her for being an average driver followed by a thorough discreditation of her career). All you have to do is look at FACTS. By facts I mean her career stats all the way to the beginning. I don't mind she's halfway attractive to some people but lets be honest. If she never does the FHM shoot she never sniffs a top level race car. Her record and her skill PROVE she isn't a very good. Is she competent? Yes, in these cars she can keep them off the wall. But that isn't a race car driver. To be a race car driver, you have to push the envelope, compete, and improve. She has none of this and while there may be 2 or 3 drivers in the series less talented than she is...they are there for the same reason she is....FINANCIAL BACKING.

Final thing, Danica garners so much attention for what she isn't. Is she good for the series? Heck yeah at this point. Frankly, she isn't even news if there aren't people out there that don't know any better talking like she's the second coming of any good driver. She basically gets a massive following from people that either don't know any different or for their "you know what" bank, period. Otherwise...she's not even in the news because just finishing races doesn't cut it.

[indycool]

Don't get me wrong with what I've posted about Danica. My favorite female driver is Shawna Robinson, who had a stock car career that briefly reached Cup. Attractive, smiled more than odd occasions and pleasant.

[drewdawg727]

T3, for the exact reason that you say that she is a "good driver" just because of the equipment in....that cannot be proven. The only way you can prove something like that is to put her in a "red car" and see how she does with it. Or, conversely, let her drive the z-line or dollar general car around an oval and see what she does.
You're making claims on comparing her driving to something you've never seen her drive, so just let the results speak for themselves and stop being so critical.

[garyshell]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cYyKpucUS-c


^and i suspect the above was a linchpin in what essentially has become stalled negotiations for danicas people...


the fact that the attempt at Viral marketing failed miserably just shows she isn't nearly as marketable as (her) folks want her to be.....



and i believe Gary owes me a rootbeer!


Oh, damn! You are right. Well, my two IRL excursions for the year are over. Are you going to KY or Mid Ohio next year? We'll figure out some way to pay this off.

Gary

[Jag_Warrior]

Here's an honest question, guys - seriously: if Danica adds to the IRL, where would the IRL be without her? I know that would be really hard to quantify (if you believe that), but where would you see the series without Danica?

[TURN3]

T3, for the exact reason that you say that she is a "good driver" just because of the equipment in....that cannot be proven. The only way you can prove something like that is to put her in a "red car" and see how she does with it. Or, conversely, let her drive the z-line or dollar general car around an oval and see what she does.
You're making claims on comparing her driving to something you've never seen her drive, so just let the results speak for themselves and stop being so critical.

I don't think I ever said she is a "good driver". If I did I'd put a bullet in my eye socket right now. I don't think it has be be proven that an AGR car is better than a Conquest or a Coyne car on ovals. That is just a logical fact. On ovals, I compare her speed and competitiveness to first of all her teammates, and secondly the red cars. Personally, I think NHL and KV have shown they are equal to AGR on superspeedways....nobody comares to Penske on TCGR right now (AGR used to before Danica ruined it all). I don't expect Danica or anybody to be 1-4 expect those guys. So from 5 to 10, where does she normally practice, where does she normally qualify, and where does she normally race? P7 thru P10 consistently. That means to me that she is a problem. I understand she's fifth in points, I understand she finishes top 5 occasionally but every single time due to attritrition and strategy. The only thing she does do that is good is finish...and combined, all that to me means she's not capable of being on the limit of the car.

[drewdawg727]

I don't think I ever said she is a "good driver". If I did I'd put a bullet in my eye socket right now.

Gee i'd feel terrible if you did that on my account.... :D

[TURN3]

Gee i'd feel terrible if you did that on my account.... :D

All in good fun buddy!!!

[beachbum]

Here's an honest question, guys - seriously: if Danica adds to the IRL, where would the IRL be without her? I know that would be really hard to quantify (if you believe that), but where would you see the series without Danica?This may be a minority opinion, but I don't think it would make any difference. She isn't getting much coverage during the races, the major media mostly only mentions her when she is at some photo shoot, and some of the hype has worn very thin. She has her fans, but she also has her detractors. She might add a bump in the ratings as a curiosity, but for the most part, the IRL and everyone in it is ignored by most sports fans outside of Indy. If she fades away, someone else can take the limelight.

When Helio was in DWTS, everyone though that would have an impact. It didn't. When his legal problems made the news, that was thought it would have an impact. Ratings and viewing didn't change.

It isn't all about one person, it is about the overall show and all of the personalities and stories. The league (and the fans) need to look around and see what other stories are out there. After all, this isn't the Danica Racing League, even if some fans seem to think it is.

[NickFalzone]

I think that the "celebrity" aspect of her, and to a certain degree Helio, DO bring some more people to the track itself for the race. Maybe not a huge number more, but they do add to the promoter's marketing ability. As far as tv though, I do not think Danica has done much at all for the ratings since maybe 2004/2005. As was said earlier, the on-track product is what keeps people coming back and draws their interest. The few viewers that watched the IRL on tv purely for Danica or Helio have left a long time ago. People say all the time about how NASCAR is big because of all the marketing/celebrity aspect of the drivers. I'd say that's a portion of it, but I think people just like the racing in NASCAR and having big colorful relatively fast cars with easy numbers to follow and lots of beating and banging to the finish. The IRL will never win on the popularity of the drivers. Fast, competitive, dangerous racing with technologically advanced cars running on a wide variety of circuits is what help make CART so big. Andrettis, Foyts, etc. certainly were crucial, but then again with Danica we're unfortunately not talking about an Andretti or a Foyt.

[drewdawg727]

Regardless if we get more fans or not, when I tell my friends that I can't hang out with them cus I have an Indycar race to watch (probably going to happen Saturday night), they are like wtf is Indycar. And then after thinking about it for 2 seconds they say "Is that the race car series where that HOT girl Danica drives? Wow she is HOT..." and then the typical adolescent male talk ensues. She is well known enough that people can identify her with the Indycar series.

[Easy Drifter]

This is utterly impossible!!!
A thread about 'Stompin Danica' and she is hardly even mentioned.
Are we not just the teeniest bit off topic? :D :confused:

[SarahFan]

This is utterly impossible!!!
A thread about 'Stompin Danica' and she is hardly even mentioned.
Are we not just the teeniest bit off topic? :D :confused:

such is the nature of discussion.....| :)

[TURN3]

Geez! You guys have ruined perfect thread for bashing the crap our of our little princess. I'm depressed!!!

[SarahFan]

http://www.sportsbybrooks.com/tag/danica_poses_nude

^anything for the 'brand'

[garyshell]

http://www.sportsbybrooks.com/tag/danica_poses_nude

^anything for the 'brand'


Who's brand? Hers or the ***** who wrote the piece. Clearly she has stated via he publicist that she will not be posing. The jerk who wrote this piece was fishing for his own headline.

Gary

[beachbum]

Who's brand? Hers or the ***** who wrote the piece. Clearly she has stated via he publicist that she will not be posing. The jerk who wrote this piece was fishing for his own headline.

GaryProbably the only people you even have heard about this are a few lurkers on internet forums.

[TURN3]

I just briefly read the rumor about this saga. So now she's not so sure about AGR and the devil she doesn't know if possibly as good as the one she does? This has all the makings of somebody that doesn't know business any better than her racing. What it looks like to me is that the dollars she wants aren't out there and she's trying to play groups against each other when what they are really doing is playing her. She'll end up at AGR because they are the only descent team desparate enough for her cash but for the love of God...come on!!!! Nobody even took note that she raced Chicagoland at the back of the pack...last car on lead lap until Marco hammer blocked Kanaan on last lap. She just doesn't have what it takes even in a car with 100% throttle glued to the ground....pathetic she's even news.

[Jag_Warrior]

She would be a major marketing asset to the series if she consistantly ran in the top 5 with an occasional win. So far that is not the case. And after several years now, the "wow" factor has worn off. I do believe she was a boost for the first couple years she was in the series.

I fully agree with that.

It's no secret that I can't stand the little a-hole. But I'll give any dog its due: she has been a rather good points racer, and pretty consistent this year. She's kept her cool and hasn't acted nearly as bratty as she has in the past. But because she's unable or unwilling to charge through the pack for a win, she's probably at her max level right now.

I still hope that she goes to NASCAR. I think there's a possibility that the weekly spankings that she'd get there might turn her into a racer who is in tune with reality. But that Epic Fail would also probably damage this "brand" of hers.

[grungex]

She's kept her cool and hasn't acted nearly as bratty as she has in the past.

Which means now she's not even entertaining.

[TURN3]

:D Exactly!

[beachbum]

I just briefly read the rumor about this saga. So now she's not so sure about AGR and the devil she doesn't know if possibly as good as the one she does? This has all the makings of somebody that doesn't know business any better than her racing. What it looks like to me is that the dollars she wants aren't out there and she's trying to play groups against each other when what they are really doing is playing her. She'll end up at AGR because they are the only descent team desparate enough for her cash but for the love of God...come on!!!! Nobody even took note that she raced Chicagoland at the back of the pack...last car on lead lap until Marco hammer blocked Kanaan on last lap. She just doesn't have what it takes even in a car with 100% throttle glued to the ground....pathetic she's even news.My suspicion is she has no clue about the business of racing and is just doing whatever IMG tells her to do. They were the one's floating all of the rumors and apparently doing all of the negotiations.

[SarahFan]

My suspicion is she has no clue about the business of racing and is just doing whatever IMG tells her to do. They were the one's floating all of the rumors and apparently doing all of the negotiations.

any idea if IMG was behind the viral marketing and her car being 'boosted'?

[SarahFan]

http://jayski.com/cupnews.htm#news-danica-wed

about 1/2 way down...

says she was at stewart-haas shop again monday

[Easy Drifter]

Where ever she goes her performance in the last few events sure has not enhanced 'her brand'.

[beachgirl]

http://jayski.com/cupnews.htm#news-danica-wed

about 1/2 way down...

says she was at stewart-haas shop again monday

But was she invited, or did she invite herself? TS is not desperate for press or sponsors.

[Jag_Warrior]

Come on, Danica... do it, do it, DO IT!!! You_Can_Do_Eeeeeeet! :bounce:

If she signs on with any NASCAR team, my username at least through the Daytona 500 will be NASCAR_Jag. And make no mistake about it, race fans, I want to be NASCAR_Jag! :)

[DBell]

Come on, Danica... do it, do it, DO IT!!! You_Can_Do_Eeeeeeet! :bounce:

If she signs on with any NASCAR team, my username at least through the Daytona 500 will be NASCAR_Jag. And make no mistake about it, race fans, I want to be NASCAR_Jag! :)

:D Jag, your passion for Danica to Nascar has won me over. I'd like this to happen too. I'm sick of hearing about her. Maybe I'd enjoy the Irl more if I Danica wasn't driving. I get tired of endless hype that has no substance to back it up. It would be one thing if she won, then she'd be the Kyle Busch of the IRL. But as a mid packer, she's just a circus attraction. So go on Danica, go for it, go to Nascar.

I'm not sure of NASCAR_Jag, that would take some getting use to. :)

[harvick#1]

you know, the IRL is even trying to keep her in the IRL, WHY??? I haven't seen all the tracks sellout from "DanicaMania". She hasn't proven that she can race with the best of them, she tries too damn cautious and never gets off the bottom line, even the ex-Champ Cars drivers are doing better on ovals now than Danica and it only took 1 year for them to have that "no fear I'm gonna pass you on the outside" attitude.

Honestly, I can give 2 craps about her, Vs. should spend more time for Sarah instead of Danica, at least her interest is whats best for the IRL instead of swimsuit ads.

but in all honesty, which commercials are funnier, Marco's or Danica's on knowing how to win :laugh:

[NickFalzone]

I think NASCAR_Warrior has a better ring to it. And I agree, it would be great entertainment if SHR happened. It's odd to me that she'd basically go on tv 2 weeks ago and say that short of signing on the dotted line, her contract with AGR was complete. Has she been offered something by a NASCAR team since, or is this more posturing? If SHR hasn't offered anything and she's just playing Mikey for more money, I think that's kind of shameful at this stage, no wonder that team can't get along.

[harvick#1]

Stewart only rumored the 3rd team when Harvick/Childress attacks started, after that died, he said no 3rd team. I don't see Tony dealing with Danica for more than 1 month

[grungex]

I think NASCAR_Warrior has a better ring to it. And I agree, it would be great entertainment if SHR happened. It's odd to me that she'd basically go on tv 2 weeks ago and say that short of signing on the dotted line, her contract with AGR was complete. Has she been offered something by a NASCAR team since, or is this more posturing? If SHR hasn't offered anything and she's just playing Mikey for more money, I think that's kind of shameful at this stage, no wonder that team can't get along.

It would be quite funny if she ended up with no ride at all... :p :

[anthonyvop]

It would be quite funny if she ended up with no ride at all... :p :

Never happen.
Ferrari or McLaren would snap her up to run in F1.

[Jag_Warrior]

Never happen.
Ferrari or McLaren would snap her up to run in F1.

Dude, you just made NASCAR_Warrior throw up in his mouth. :mad:

Go, Danica... Go!!!

[DBell]

Dude, you just made NASCAR_Warrior throw up in his mouth. :mad:

Go, Danica... Go!!!

NASCAR_Warrior has a certain ring to it.

Go, Danica...Get Out Of Open Wheel!

[TURN3]

It would be quite funny if she ended up with no ride at all... :p :

I was thinking the same thing.


Never happen.
Ferrari or McLaren would snap her up to run in F1.

I was thinking the same there here too!

Here's my synopsis:
1. Same tactic as previous contract...pretend to have offers from all the top teams in all the top series to leverage negotiations.
2. Uh oh, I've had 3 years to prove myself in top equipment and I have failed miserably. I have been a primary contributor to a dominate team's regression and now we're barely competitive on even track's I don't have to have any skill on. Who's going to believe me when I tell them I'm really really good!? I'd better go see what Mikey's willing to offer.
3. Dang, Mikey isn't willing to offer as much as I want to be a brand like Nike. But I'm bigger than Nike. I won a race when everyboyd else ran out of fuel. I'm THE DANICA! I know, I'll go visit NASCAR some more...then Mikey will pay up!
4. I can't believe nobody wants to pay me what I think I'm worth. I run as good as Ed Carpenter on road courses and on ovals too where I have better equipment than him. How much is Ed making?
5. I can't live on what Ed makes!
6. Well I know I'll have a ride next year because I'm that good. I'm THE DANICA. If nobody wants to pay me what I actually deserve, then I'll just go do some photo shoots...then people will really see how good of a driver I am!
7. Nobody wants to take pictures of me anymore now that I'm a failure at being a race car driver and a business. Damn! I just an average person with now real skill. Is it too late for my daddy to fake my resume and get me back into rally cars?

Trust me, I know THE DANICA will have a ride somewhere but only because some team will need her sponsor money that bad (i.e. Milka). But I think reality is starting to hit her in the face a little bit. She just doesn't have the results to back up her career as a race car driver. She's a sideshow at the circus and it's been old for me now for over 2 years. I used to want to see her do well but then THE DANICA happened. Too bad the open wheel wars happened or we'd never have heard of her and she'd be working off Industrial Ave. in Vegas.

[DexDexter]

Never happen.
Ferrari or McLaren would snap her up to run in F1.

:p

[indycool]

She's won poles. She's been on front rows. She won a race last year. She's fifth in points this year. Don't see any reason for bellyachin'. She ain't Helio and she ain't Milka.

[Wasted Talent]

She's won poles. She's been on front rows. She won a race last year. She's fifth in points this year. Don't see any reason for bellyachin'. She ain't Helio and she ain't Milka.


Absolutely...........

WT

[ClarkFan]

Never happen.
Ferrari or McLaren would snap her up to run in F1.
:rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao: :rotflmao:

ClarkFan

[anthonyvop]

Never happen.
Ferrari or McLaren would snap her up to run in F1.

For those who might have been shocked by my above statement.......


I WAS BEING SARCASTIC!!!

[beachgirl]

She's won poles. She's been on front rows. She won a race last year. She's fifth in points this year. Don't see any reason for bellyachin'. She ain't Helio and she ain't Milka.


I'll go back and research, but to the best of my knowledge, she's never "won" a pole. She's gotten her poles through problems with the ones who did actually get the pole. But I certainly could be wrong. Certainly have been before. She has been on front rows. A couple of them. She's a decent driver, but not a good racer.

[garyshell]

For those who might have been shocked by my above statement.......


I WAS BEING SARCASTIC!!!

No! Really? Whew. ...big ol' grin...

Gary

[indycool]

Please do that research, beachgirl.

[SoCalPVguy]

Danica will sign with AGR, it is not her 'best' deal, it is her her ONLY deal.

[TURN3]

I'll go back and research, but to the best of my knowledge, she's never "won" a pole. She's gotten her poles through problems with the ones who did actually get the pole. But I certainly could be wrong. Certainly have been before. She has been on front rows. A couple of them. She's a decent driver, but not a good racer.

She was on pole 3 times in 2005. I believe all 3 times quals were rained out and they used to go by practice speeds. At that time, she also had a dominant Honda engine that only AGR and RLR were using if memory serves me correct. Penske and Ganassi were stuck with Toyota and Panther was with Chevy. Honda's Clarke has admitted they were giving the best engines they had to her at that time too. Soooooo....to say she's "won poles" is a largely inaccurate statment.

I find it funny too people are starting to use the "she's a decent driver but not a good racer" line. In a top level professional race series, what exactly consitutes a good driver vs a good racer? If a good driver means she doesn't lose control and crash then yes, she's a good driver. But is Indycar about racing or driving? So I make a call for all those trying to be nice to cease! She's not a good racer, period.

[beachbum]

She was on pole 3 times in 2005. I believe all 3 times quals were rained out and they used to go by practice speeds. At that time, she also had a dominant Honda engine that only AGR and RLR were using if memory serves me correct. Close, but not quite. Danica did earn the pole in qualifying at Kansas in 2005, with RLR drivers 1,2,3 (Danica, Rice, Vitor). In 2005, only RLR and Fernandez had the dominate Panoz / Honda package (AGR had Dallara / Honda) and as Honda's Robert Clarke stated on Windtunnel (to Dave's surprise), they made sure Danica got the best engines. She finished 9th and a quote from her about the race was "Overall, we made the car fastest through the day but it was frustrating when we dropped back a couple of times. The wind was problem from everybody out there today and that caused my car to develop a push." Sound familiar?

Qualifying was rained out at Nashville 2005 where she started 2nd and finished 7th. Quote from her "Once again, we started out front but dropped back in the early laps." and "Later, we made a fuel strategy gamble that paid off for us" Again, sound familiar?

She started on Pole at Kentucky 2005 when qualifying was rained out, finished 16th, last of the cars running at the end after she stalled during a pit stop and had transmission issues. Can't find any quotes.

She started on the pole at Chicago 2005 after Briscoe won the pole but was disqualified (as were his Ganassi teammates) for some reason. Her teammate Buddy Rice started second. She finished 6ht right in front of Vitor (her teammate) in 7th after being penalized for jumping the final restart. A quote "it was a typical super-speedway race for us -- at times we'd drop back.."

When others got the same Honda engines and the Dallara became the car to have, she was never as good as in 2005. At the road courses in 2005 where driver skill could overcome superior equipment, she wasn't so hot.

St Pete Qualified 15, finished 12
Watkins Glen Qualified 16, finished 16
Infineon Qualified 16, finished 20

[beachgirl]

Thanks for catching the research before I had a chance to do it. Appreciate it, guys.

[Chamoo]

Danica will sign with AGR, it is not her 'best' deal, it is her her ONLY deal.

Disagree, it is not her only deal. It is her best, I'm sure Panther would take her in a second car. I wish they would make a play for her, they could use the cash infusion and the second car would be huge.

[beachbum]

Disagree, it is not her only deal. It is her best, I'm sure Panther would take her in a second car. I wish they would make a play for her, they could use the cash infusion and the second car would be huge.And you have evidence of these other deals? Or is it wishful thinking?

[Chamoo]

And you have evidence of these other deals? Or is it wishful thinking?

Oh, sorry, no evidence or anything like that. But I'm sure if Danica approached Panther and said, can you run a second car for me in 2010, do you think they'd turn her down?

[indycool]

I'm not certain, but I believe on those rainouts, they reverted to fastest in practice, thus she got the poles. Couldn't have been on points and I think that was the rule back then.

[SoCalPVguy]

Disagree, it is not her only deal. It is her best, I'm sure Panther would take her in a second car. I wish they would make a play for her, they could use the cash infusion and the second car would be huge.

Disagree to disagree... Panther would not even come close to having the resources that IMG will require to sign the princess. What cash infusion, she costs money not brings it...

[beachbum]

Oh, sorry, no evidence or anything like that. But I'm sure if Danica approached Panther and said, can you run a second car for me in 2010, do you think they'd turn her down?Absolutely, if she didn't bring full funding or they couldn't get a sponsor on board to pay her asking price. It has been hinted that some of Panther's issues this year is limited funding caused by Wheldon's salary requirements. Do you really think she would drive for less than him? I don't.

It really is all about the money these days. No one is going to take on ANY driver without funding to cover the team costs. Drivers don't just decide who they will drive for. The team (or driver) has to have funding and the team has to make an offer. If you look around, there aren't many teams with the bucks to pay any driver what she has been reported to be getting. So her options are limited unless some big bucks sponsor says "I will give you X millions to run Danica and only Danica". So far, there haven't been any reports of anyone making that leap.

[beachbum]

I'm not certain, but I believe on those rainouts, they reverted to fastest in practice, thus she got the poles. Couldn't have been on points and I think that was the rule back then.Her one pole on a rainout was based on practice speed. Practice speeds can be deceiving if they were obtained with a tow, which is common on the bigger ovals like Kentucky.

[indycool]

Oh.

[harvick#1]

I wish she wouldn't have a seat for any car, that why the IRL can finally get back to racing and the announcer don't have to give us the "Danica" update.

and for the IRL saying she's the face, well the tracks aren't selling out to see her and the ratings aren't skyrocketing because of her.

she only has AGR and thats it, the other owners have to look at her stats and watch her on track to see that she will never win a race outside of a rainout or fuel milage. sure she can get top 10's, but does that mean much when there is only 23 cars on track :mark:

Stewart says she'll be in Nascar, but for how long, I can't see her handling those cars and she'll either leave knowing she cant drive the cars or the owner will dump her for poor results or DNQ'ing.

[Mark in Oshawa]

I listened to NASCAR's radio on Sirius, and Lee Spencer from Fox noted Danica is still hanging out with Tony Stewart, asking about how she should go to NASCAR. Either she isn't confident on things with this AGR contract or she has convinced herself she can jump ship.


I don't like her much, but I do think her best chance for success isn't in NASCAR. What is more, as much as I don't like her, she is needed in the IRL as a name that the people want to see. I blame this on ABC and their hype machine but it helped get non racers to look at the IRL at the time. If she hasn't signed this AGR deal, why? If so, then why is she still talking to Tony Stewart on how to approach moving to stockcars. Apparently she value's Tony's take on things, and she has finally realized she isn't going to get a Cup ride with no experience in stockcars.

About time the Princess realized the world isn't her oyster but at the same time, the racer in her wants the challenge. I think she also knows she is gone about as far with the IRL maybe as her talent would dictate. How she can then justify her limited talent taking her to NASCAR is a leap of logic I wont make, but I don't doubt with her marketability and sponsors, she could buy a ride.....

[Mark in Oshawa]

PS...it is about time serious race fans of the IRL realize we need her marketability and ability to draw in non-race fans as a known name. WE all know her talents are limited, and while she can put the pedal down on ovals when the setup is right, and she isn't a menace to her competitors; she is a competant driver, nothing more. To spend 10 posts arguing about her poles and accomplishments just reinforced the fact she is just ok. That said, she is more valuable to us than she is to NASCAR, and whether she likes it or not, she hasn't a prayer in NASCAR.

[beachbum]

Frankly, I am just getting tired of the "Danica watch".

While there are polite suggestions full of politically correct statements from Ganassi and Stewart on how to move into NASCAR, I don't see anyone other than AGR showing an active interest is actually signing her.

She will drive wherever the opportunities take her. Those opportunities won't come from her dreams, but the hard realities of the racing business.

[Jag_Warrior]

And this just in from ESPN:

HAMPTON, Ga. -- Danica Patrick will "all but certainly" be in NASCAR in 2010, but won't give up Indy car racing and will limit next year's activity to the Nationwide Series and Trucks, according to a source very close to the situation.

Tony Stewart is the "star candidate" to be her partner and mentor in NASCAR, the source said, adding that Patrick's recent visits to Stewart-Haas Racing were much more than social -- that she and Stewart were discussing a deal, and are close to one.

"I can pretty much guarantee at some point she's going to be over here," Stewart told reporters Saturday at Atlanta Motor Speedway, meaning NASCAR in general and hinting at something the source confirmed and clarified.

http://sports.espn.go.com/rpm/nascar/nationwide/news/story?id=4449524

[TURN3]

PS...it is about time serious race fans of the IRL realize we need her marketability and ability to draw in non-race fans as a known name. WE all know her talents are limited, and while she can put the pedal down on ovals when the setup is right, and she isn't a menace to her competitors; she is a competant driver, nothing more. To spend 10 posts arguing about her poles and accomplishments just reinforced the fact she is just ok. That said, she is more valuable to us than she is to NASCAR, and whether she likes it or not, she hasn't a prayer in NASCAR.

The fact there are so many posts about her is a result of the fact media plays her hype up to mid-level fans and those that doen't know any different. And we real race fans with knowledge realize she's a joke. As I said before, when she came to RLR, I truly wanted her to succeed and be the real deal. Sadly she's just a side show and to me it is inexplicable as to how a mid to back pack driver can continue to get this much exposure...I guess I just add to it so maybe I'm the entire reason she's even still in a ride.

Frankly, she has been good for fans/exposure in the past but what are "we" really getting out of her? As stated, she doesn't fill up the stands, she doesn't improve the TV ratings, and the followers she does have really don't amount to much worth anyway. If a fan has nothing to contribute except worship of a joke of a driver then said person isn't really a fan in my opinion. I'm telling everybody...she's Ed Carpenter in a chick suit!! (Except I must say I think Ed can outdrive her on ovals...he didn't lift 1 time in Kentucky and Danica would NEVER have raced that close for any lenght of time).

Oh, and I'm glad to see she's been talked into reality by doing some developmental series to test NASCAR. If she gets a big team to back her, she'll qualify but she won't race for squat. Her NASCAR experiment will be over faster than you can possibly imagine. With all that talent she relys on in Indycars, how will her performances decline....especially now that she's not in a contract year? Lets be real...if she were to start winning races by some strange change of course, you can bet it'll be she's getting something the rest aren't with the IRL's hopes being if she's winning she's staying.

[grungex]

Sadly she's just a side show and to me it is inexplicable as to how a mid to back pack driver can continue to get this much exposure...

Because she exposed her butt-crack...

[speeddurango]

Mark in Oshawa's post is rather sensitive I should say, although I hope irl lose her ASAP simply because I feel what irl needs now really is a really dire situation where those people in the management can actually start thinking of what to do to make this series better to get out of this ongoing decade long slow slide. And also for the good of the long term, irl shouldn't rely on a mid pack female driver with her explicit sexual exposure to attract attentions, that's not what motorsport essentially is and will lead irl nowhere in the long run.

[Andrewmcm]

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/78364

[beachgirl]

Last evening I sat and watched both the Nationwide race and the NASCAR Truck race on TV. As I sat there, I tried to picture DP racing in either. She will not run up close and personal on the track with other drivers in the IRL, she gets nervous if anyone runs close to her and usually backs out, she lacks that last 1% of total mental commitment, and this is in the IRL with 20-24 cars and the "room" to spread out. NASCAR Truck qualifies 36, and Nationwide qualifies 43. There's no room, or even potential, for any kind of success for her kind of racing in either tier, let alone Cup. IF she really plans, seriously, to try to make a move to Nationwide, I'm afraid she will be handed her butt in a bag if/when she tries NASCAR. Unfortunately, she will be in the wall so fast it would be a true shame. And there'd be no hissies either - those guys would just laugh in her face. I'm also willing to bet she will not actually appear in a Nationwide race in 2010. She'll do testing for someone, actual results of said testing will not be made public (just like the last time this happened before Atlantics), and after that the whole idea will quietly fade.

When I think about this whole "Danica to NASCAR" thing, I think about all the people who are, or who have been, there, and their carefully worded public statements about Danica in NASCAR. Chip advised her to stay in IRL. Both Dario and JP advised her to stay in the IRL and to think very, very carefully about the NASCAR idea, Penske suggested she stay in the IRL, Sam Hornish stated that the transition is very, very hard, and takes more than one year and a lot of dedication, etc. (If you want links, google them yourself.) It seems like she's going down a list of all these people who can give her rock-solid advice, until she finds one who says what she wants to hear. I know grade-school kids who are more mature than that.

Whatever. She'll do whatever IMG tells her to do, because she really is all about the money. Regardless of what she tells Tony Stewart. If he believes she has that much dedication to go to NASCAR, when she hasn't shown that kind of dedication for ANY other kind of racing she's ever been in, well, shame on Tony. I thought he was smarter than that.

[TURN3]

OMG! To prove my previous point in this post, even if you don't use Twitter you can go so a search for @DanicaPatrick. Apparently her "fans" are reading the reports on this wonderful Sunday morning and the tweets prove beyond a reasonable doubt exactly what I've said about the fans she brings being incompetent. Indycar doesn't need the sideshow at the 3 ring circus attention...it needs real fans, real drivers, real racing, real technology, etc. It doesn't need attn from Danica like WWF or WWE. Everybody knows that stuff isn't real, right?

[NickFalzone]

1. I don't think the IRL needs Danica to survive. The series is struggling right now and it has much bigger issues to deal with than, as another poster said, a well known female driver staying or leaving. Does she add a bit to the fanbase? Yes, I'd say the at-track attendance (often casual fans) is boosted a bit by her. But tv ratings won't be affected one-bit, and in the big picture, I don't think it will make all that much difference. 2. I do not think it's entirely fair to speculate how well she will do in NASCAR. Driving an Indy car close to another driver is a lot different than driving a stock car close. If you touch in an Indy car you're toast, if you touch in a stock car, you can often times get away with it. She's aware of this, and I think she'll be less cautious in a stock car. I also think the idea that she'll have difficulty "steering" a stock car is ridiculous, of course they have power steering, unlike Indy cars. Yes, there's a lot of reasons why she might not do well in stock cars, the main one being that she has little to NO experience in them. That's the biggest issue, not her size, her gender, or her driving style in the IRL. I expect her to get top equipment in nwide/trucks in 2010 and to probably just be running laps near the back most of the season. By the time 2011 rolls around and she expects to start running Cup, I think then we'll see whether she's a Hornish/Montoya or comes crawling back to Indycar... My expectations are not high, but I do think it will be interesting to watch.

[Jag_Warrior]

Since it sounds like The Danica is just dipping her toe in the water, here's where I am. If she actually starts a NASCAR or ARCA race by Daytona, I'll become NASCAR_Warrior for a month. If she starts a stock car race (ANY stock car race) and finishes in the Top 10, where there are at least 25 starters, I'll become NASCAR_Warrior for 3 months. If at anytime during 2010 she starts a NASCAR Sprint Cup race, without having to rely on owner points, I'll be NASCAR_Warrior from that point through the end of the season. If she goes full time Cup by 2011, I will become NASCAR_Warrior for the entire season.

And... if Danica wins a stock car race, ANY stock car race, I'll permanently become NASCAR_Warrior on here. I figure there's better odds that I'll go to Vegas next month with $50 in my wallet and I'll leave with $1 million in my pocket and Salma Hayek on my arm.

Folks here should look at the upside of this. The Truck series gets about 400% higher ratings than the IRL. The Nationwide Series gets about 700% higher ratings than the IRL (on Versus). Since The Danica seems to want to keep her seat warm in the IRL for awhile, maybe some of the fans in those other series might start watching some IRL races.

[TURN3]

What will be interesting to watch is how fast THE DANICA brand is history once she's exposed as a complete talentless failure. That can be hidden in the IRL on ovals with cars glued to the ground and less than 10 cars that are somewhat competitive. It has nothing to do with weight or strenght or anything like that like some people have speculated...she'll be fine there, that isn't the problem. The problem is she's not a good race car driver. There isn't much to show an argument to the contrary.

[NickFalzone]

I agree, NASCAR is going to show us her real abilities (or lack thereof) as a driver. I do not think it's fair to give her a couple races and make a decision there. But her ability to adapt to these cars I think will say a lot about her talent as a racer. Even Franchitti had a pole in Nationwide last year and had some decent runs in nationwide and arca. But his time there was considered a failure. Danica will probably get more time in the cars than Dario thanks to her sponsors, but at a certain point next season if she's not running or qualifying mid pack with top equipment, people are going to question her decision. And that can't be good for the brand. I suppose it's a risk she's willing to take, and she's never lacked for a healthy ego.

I'll also add that while I don't think her absence from the IRL will effect ratings all that much, I DO think it will have a significant effect on the IRL's ability to get a title sponsor. She's the face for a big affiliate sponsor, Peak Antifreeze, and my guess is that a "star" leaving the series will not look good in IRL marketing/sponsorship meetings. She adds a lot of perceived value to the series, even if it's more perception than reality.

[TURN3]

I'll also add that while I don't think her absence from the IRL will effect ratings all that much, I DO think it will have a significant effect on the IRL's ability to get a title sponsor. She's the face for a big affiliate sponsor, Peak Antifreeze, and my guess is that a "star" leaving the series will not look good in IRL marketing/sponsorship meetings. She adds a lot of perceived value to the series, even if it's more perception than reality.

I don't doubt that there will be some fallout from some sponsors if she were to leave Indycar all together, but only for those certain sponsors that are attached to her and only for a short time (Peak, Godaddy, etc.). I think the point here was made (to which I agree) that maybe Indycar needs to be building it's own brand and not trying to piggy back on a mid to back of pack driver that wouldn't even be in racing if it weren't for doing some photo shoots. Seriously, has anybody ever considered that DanicaMania has really sort of stalled out? By stalled out I don't mean that it is dead but that it hasn't continued to grow at exponetial pace like it once did when she was a rookie at RLR. The curve has flattened way out and because Indycar counted on it I think it has limited the growth of the bigger picture for several years.

The fact her popularity has bascially reached it's peak is obviously exactly why she's considering NASCAR (aka $$$). Everybody needs to face it, she's popular for surpassing gender barriers, not for being good and it is arguable at best that she's even average. She's never going to be good at any form of racing so when the welcome has worn out the smart business thing to do would be to break the next barrier. Problem is...she's running out of barriers. After her failure in NASCAR with Hendrick level equipment, where too next? Can't do NHRA sweeheart, Shirley already did that and Ashley would stomp on you like asphalt under your own feet after loosing yet again.

[indycool]

This is a silly argument. Lyn St. James said itg best once: "The car doesn't know whether it's a guy or a gal driving it."

[DavePI2]

bye by and don't come back, you can't drive so take it where the races are fixed and you don't have too.

[Jag_Warrior]

This is a silly argument. Lyn St. James said itg best once: "The car doesn't know whether it's a guy or a gal driving it."

And that's one of the few things said by the mystery woman known as "Lyn St. James" that I ever agreed with. The other being, both of us were fans of McMillan and Wife back in the 70's... and I thought Susan Saint James was really cute too. :D

So to piggyback on Lyn's statement, why is Danica so popular? Well... uh... ;) But the rubber will be a meetin' the road soon enough.

Sincerely,

NASCAR_Warrior. :s mokin:

[grungex]

This is a silly argument. Lyn St. James said itg best once: "The car doesn't know whether it's a guy or a gal driving it."

Perhaps you can show me what I missed, but I don't think this thread has focused on her gender as the issue at all.

[TURN3]

Perhaps you can show me what I missed, but I don't think this thread has focused on her gender as the issue at all.

Yeah grungy, what did we miss. This has nothing to do with gender other than the fact Danica happens to be a girl and one that can't drive.

[harvick#1]

Perhaps you can show me what I missed, but I don't think this thread has focused on her gender as the issue at all.

some how, the remark has to come into play, just like how race has to come into play with others. I don't believe anyone here has made any sexist comments toward Danica in this thread.

[indycool]

Read the thread. Plenty of references to her being a her. If it was an E.J. Viso or Justin Wilson or Vitor Meira or Dan Wheldon or someone else like them, there would be no multi-page discussion.

[harvick#1]

well to be fair, none of those guys go bragging about how great they are neither or their "The Brand" is keeping the IRL afloat. what she needs to do is get off her head out of the clouds and come back to reality. I honestly don't care if she races or not, its her up-tight attitude that gets the people annoyed, she needs to take lessons from Sarah if she has to. but she can't keep saying how great she is (although the media does alot as well as making it worse to real race fans).

should she be in Nascar, absolutely not, she does not have enough talent to compete there, shes better off in the IRL for her career, the Nascar drivers will have zero patience for her and her blocking, and the Cup guys are not afraid to use the bumper at all except maybe for Martin

[TURN3]

Read the thread. Plenty of references to her being a her. If it was an E.J. Viso or Justin Wilson or Vitor Meira or Dan Wheldon or someone else like them, there would be no multi-page discussion.

I hope this isn't the part of the thread where a few people that realize they can't make a case to support her go off on some tangent. It hasn't been suggested by me or any recent posts in this thread (to my recollection) that she's a worthless piece of crap driver due to her gender. Frankly, it doesn't matter in terms of performance and results. In other words, I agree with Lyn St. James...the car doesn't know who/what is driving.

If somebody wants to start arguing about this being a multi-page post becasue she's a female then I would argue if she weren't female she wouldn't be racing cars professionally. She doesn't have a pedigree like EJ, Justin, Vitor, or Dan. She only ever got a break by forging her resume and doing photo shoots.

To be clear, for me, the bottom line is she's a mid to back of pack driver with equipment superior to all but Penske & Ganassi. The attention she gets for that is what disgusts me...not that she's female

[NickFalzone]

I guess the only real issue I have with this, as an IRL (and sometime NASCAR) fan, is the way she's going about this in the media and with the supposed scheduling. Unlike Franchitti or Hornish or Montoya, who each won the 500 and the series championship (along with a load of races) Danica can't really say "I've done all you can do in Indycar and I want to try a different kind of racecar". Granted, I didn't totally believe them at the time, but it was an adequate explanation. In contrast, everything Danica is doing here, even down to the split of her doing some IRL and some NASCAR events next season, suggests that the IRL is to her at best a stepping stone and at worst an inferior racing that she wants to get away from asap. Which is not to say that I don't understand where she's coming from, but on the other hand belittingling the series that grew you into a huge moneymaking brand is not that cool. I think of the way Penske/Hornish handled it in a very classy way behind the scenes, with a few practice stock car events at the end of the season, Franchitti also kept it quiet till the end of the season, compared to Danica's weekly and even daily pronouncements about her desire to drive stock cars (and little mention of her desire to drive indy cars) then a schedule that basically says "i'll stick around in indycar to get a payday while mixing in a full schedule of the real racing I want to do". That just rubs me the wrong way.

[indycool]

Most of those guys have said they wanted to try stock cars some time. Montoya, Hornish and Allmendinger are over there now. Franchitti came back. Sneva, Rutherford (although he won a NASCAR race at Atlanta) and Carter had a turn at NASCAR and came back. Foyt, Andretti and Hurtubise all did well in their brief NASCAR stints -- I believe Foyt won seven times, including Daytona. Cale Yarborough, Lee Roy Yarbrough, Bobby Allison and Donnie Allison tried Indy cars and Donnie was the only one who showed well. Paul Goldsmith did 'em both and ran pretty much top 10 in both but didn't win too many.

If a media guy asks Danica about it, what is she supposed to say? "No, I never want to do that." She's apparently smart enough to not burn bridges anywhere. And the media guys are asking and reporting this and it triggers these threads.

[NickFalzone]

I dont agree with that. The media was on Hornish and Franchitti from mid-season on about NASCAR and they just changed topics, wouldn't discuss it. They also weren't publicly going to NASCAR race shops and signing autographs for fans or having several owners publicly make statements about their discussions. They kept all that behind the scenes, and she could have as well. She's played one side against the other all season, for I guess what the ultimate goal was a big 1-year IRL contract for 2010 along with a strong NASCAR contract that will allow her top equipment and to do races throughout the year in between the IRL schedule. She's always wanted to do both IMO to keep the IRL as a safety net, and there's been a lot of posturing to get that.

[beachbum]

There are some interesting issues at play here for Danica if you step back from the hype and mystique of the Danica "brand".

The only series where Danica has had any real success is the IRL. Yet by all accounts the only offer she has for next year is a 1 year deal with AGR. Just a few weeks ago, she was saying she wanted to stay in the IRL and expected to sign with AGR. Now suddenly she is exploring other possibilities in NASCAR.

What changed? Was the AGR offer well below what she (or IMG) thinks she is worth and suddenly she is looking at NASCAR for the pot of gold?

If she can't get a good deal in the IRL where people know her and her racing talent, what does that say about her real value to the racing community?

When the people in the IRL who have raced with her and know the realities of NASCAR are saying she should stay in the IRL (Franchitti, Ganassi, even Hornish), what do they know that the media shills don't know?

Why do almost everyone who have worked with her remain quiet about Danica? You don't hear anything from Rahal, or Buddy Rice, or even Kyle Moyer and Kim Green. They seem to have nothing to say about her. Why?

The very few times she tried other non-open wheel series such as sports cars (GT and Grand-Am), her results went from underwhelming (Grand-Am) to dismal (GT). What does that say about her ability to adapt and race other types of vehicles?

Why did her test of a Busch car in 2003 go nowhere? She was supposed to have a second test, but it was canceled (due to a scheduling conflict according to her media hacks).

Is it possible her racing future may not be nearly as bright as her starry eyed fans think? Has the clock run out on her 15 minutes of fame? Are teams now looking for results instead of just a pretty face?

Perhaps a real gauge of her racing value comes from a Google search, where almost the whole first page consists of her photo shoots and celebrity appearances, not racing results. She has gone from a racer who models to a model who races. And as a model, she isn't that dazzling.

In the end, racing is still a performance based industry. Even media darlings like Dale Jr, need results to keep the fan base. Danica came in with lots of potential, but her first year (2005) was arguably her best year. Since then, she hasn't done as well and certainly hasn't improved much, if at all.

With Danica, it is very hard to separate the real from the imagined. IHMO, at some point she has to prove she can race and race hard or her career may be a lot shorter than some think.

[grungex]

Read the thread. Plenty of references to her being a her. If it was an E.J. Viso or Justin Wilson or Vitor Meira or Dan Wheldon or someone else like them, there would be no multi-page discussion.

Pretty hard to refer to a female without saying her. :rolleyes:

You still haven't supported your statement.

[indycool]

Read post #142.

Remember, it's the silly season where drivers and car owners and sponsors are finding out all their options and yes, playing one another off each other for the best deal, one way or the other. Kanaan almost signed with Ganassi last year and don't you think his guys were playing with both Ganassi and AGR? IMG is a very prominent agency and has done this with golfers and tennis players and b aseball and football players. They're going to represent an auto racing client the same way.

[Jag_Warrior]

In about 10 years, I can imagine Danica Patrick, Anna Kournikova and Michelle Wie sitting at a table together, somewhere in West Palm Beach. And one of them (doesn't matter which one) looks at the other two and says, "Can you believe what a great frickin' country this is?! Only in America could one accomplish as little as the three of us have and be as rich as we are. A toast to mediocrity... and having nice legs!" :beer:

She's at the top of the IRL in terms of popularity, and she hasn't gotten there on merit. She knows that (somewhere deep down). And so do the people at IMG. I might hate the game, but I don't hate the playa (I don't like her, but I don't hate her). And one thing I have to give Danica credit for: she's playing the game damn well!

[grungex]

Read post #142.

How does that support your accusations of sexism?

[TURN3]

In about 10 years, I can imagine Danica Patrick, Anna Kournikova and Michelle Wie sitting at a table together, somewhere in West Palm Beach. And one of them (doesn't matter which one) looks at the other two and says, "Can you believe what a great frickin' country this is?! Only in America could one accomplish as little as the three of us have and be as rich as we are. A toast to mediocrity... and having nice legs!" :beer:

She's at the top of the IRL in terms of popularity, and she hasn't gotten there on merit. She knows that (somewhere deep down). And so do the people at IMG. I might hate the game, but I don't hate the playa (I don't like her, but I don't hate her). And one thing I have to give Danica credit for: she's playing the game damn well!

I respectfully disagree with your opinion that she is playing the game well. I think she's playing it like a spoiled brat that her parents never taught her proper values. Plenty of reference here as to how true professionals "play the game".

[beachbum]

Read post #142.

Remember, it's the silly season where drivers and car owners and sponsors are finding out all their options and yes, playing one another off each other for the best deal, one way or the other. Kanaan almost signed with Ganassi last year and don't you think his guys were playing with both Ganassi and AGR? IMG is a very prominent agency and has done this with golfers and tennis players and b aseball and football players. They're going to represent an auto racing client the same way.As AJ would say, that is quite true. But the question is, will IMG's tactics work? IHMO, they only work if there is a bidding war for an athlete and that just doesn't seem true in this case.

[beachbum]

I respectfully disagree with your opinion that she is playing the game well. I think she's playing it like a spoiled brat that her parents never taught her proper values. Plenty of reference here as to how true professionals "play the game".That depends an what game you are playing. She has certainly played the personal promotion game better than almost any athlete in recent times. As for her playing the racing game or acting like a professional, those are different stories.

[indycool]

Grungex, post me back when there's an eight-page thread on the pros and cons of E.J. Viso.

[grungex]

No, it is up to you to prove your point, else admit you're projecting your own biases onto this thread.

[NickFalzone]

Indycool, maybe not Viso, but if Marco was boasting about his interest in going to NASCAR next season and visting Stewart Haas regularly, I think we'd probably be having a similar thread.

BTW, Atlanta Motor Speedway tonight, 2 cautions so far, both caused by Hornish sliding into the infield.

[Chamoo]

BTW, Atlanta Motor Speedway tonight, 2 cautions so far, both caused by Hornish sliding into the infield.

What was the stat last year? Sam Hornish Jr. had something like 12 more spins than any other driver in 2008?

[indycool]

My "biases?" I don't know what "biases" I'm supposed to have. I just don't thonk the fifth-place driver in points deserves all this lovin' and hatin' for eight pages on this board. .

[Jag_Warrior]

That depends an what game you are playing. She has certainly played the personal promotion game better than almost any athlete in recent times. As for her playing the racing game or acting like a professional, those are different stories.

Bingo! That's why I put her at the table with Anna Kournikova and Michelle Wie. While Michelle is still a question mark, thus far, she has a lot more in common with Anna and Danica than she does, say... Tiger Woods.

What did Danica talk about when the NASCAR rumors started flying last year? How much she would impact ratings. As far as I know, she's never said a word about wanting to win the Daytona 500, the Coke 600 or the Brickyard 400. Danica's not playing the same game as Michael Schumacher or Ayrton Senna did: winning at all costs and winning is everything. Danica wants to live the glamorous life. Her game is $. That's why I said one can hate the game, but I really can't hate the player (of that game). She is what she is, she does what she does. She's not an idiot. At some level, she must know that she's not getting ALL this attention based on her merits as a racing car driver. What merits as a racing car driver? Hell, (finally) being fifth place in the points is hardly on par with winning the Indy 500 or the season championship two years in a row. People are probably going to faint if Danica even wins another race. I think she knows what her true abilities are. So why play a losing game? Why not play a game she can obviously win?

As long as she can make NASCAR money, I don't think she's going to cry herself to sleep over barely qualifying and NEVER winning a NASCAR race (in any division). Just my 2 cents.

Sincerely,

NASCAR_Warrior :D

[DBell]

Since it sounds like The Danica is just dipping her toe in the water, here's where I am. If she actually starts a NASCAR or ARCA race by Daytona, I'll become NASCAR_Warrior for a month. If she starts a stock car race (ANY stock car race) and finishes in the Top 10, where there are at least 25 starters, I'll become NASCAR_Warrior for 3 months. If at anytime during 2010 she starts a NASCAR Sprint Cup race, without having to rely on owner points, I'll be NASCAR_Warrior from that point through the end of the season. If she goes full time Cup by 2011, I will become NASCAR_Warrior for the entire season.

And... if Danica wins a stock car race, ANY stock car race, I'll permanently become NASCAR_Warrior on here. I figure there's better odds that I'll go to Vegas next month with $50 in my wallet and I'll leave with $1 million in my pocket and Salma Hayek on my arm.

Folks here should look at the upside of this. The Truck series gets about 400% higher ratings than the IRL. The Nationwide Series gets about 700% higher ratings than the IRL (on Versus). Since The Danica seems to want to keep her seat warm in the IRL for awhile, maybe some of the fans in those other series might start watching some IRL races.

DanicaFan mode on:
How long will you call yourself NASCAR_Warrior when Danica wins a Nascar event? :p

[Jag_Warrior]

DanicaFan mode on:
How long will you call yourself NASCAR_Warrior when Danica wins a Nascar event? :p

When? Uh... IF The Danica ever wins a Truck series, Nationwide Series or Sprint Cup Series race: I will forever more be known as NASCAR_Warrior. :D

[garyshell]

Read the thread. Plenty of references to her being a her. If it was an E.J. Viso or Justin Wilson or Vitor Meira or Dan Wheldon or someone else like them, there would be no multi-page discussion.


IC, I think if you were to substitute "he" for every "her" in this thread, you would find there is no sex bias in the posts at all. Lots of anti- Danica bias or the driver named Danica can't cut it in NASCAR (a sentiment I agree with 1000%). But I don't see a single instance of "a girl can't cut it in NASCAR" sort of talk in this thread. Justin no I think he actually might be able to pull it off, maybe even Wheldon. Vitor, yes, I think we might be having this discussion. EJ, not so sure he could either. Just sayin'...

Gary

[ClarkFan]

When? Uh... IF The Danica ever wins a Truck series, Nationwide Series or Sprint Cup Series race: I will forever more be known as NASCAR_Warrior. :D

Has Salma called yet?

:p

ClarkFan

[beachbum]

My "biases?" I don't know what "biases" I'm supposed to have. I just don't thonk the fifth-place driver in points deserves all this lovin' and hatin' for eight pages on this board. .If the only standard used to qualify a driver for a discussion were their points position, you would be absolutely correct. There aren't long threads on Mutoh, or Viso, or Rahal, or almost any other driver. So why the long discussions about one single driver?

First, there once were multiple long threads about Danica running simultaneously on almost every forum. Now, a long thread like this is getting much less frequent. Either posters are just tired of the same old discussions, or her popularity just isn't what it once was. Perhaps the shine has worn off.

Second, why do people buy the scandal sheets at the grocery checkouts to read about obscure B movie actors and actresses? They seem to want to know about the often outrageous and silly things they do. Some of the hype around Danica almost defies logic and it can be entertaining to read the latest episode of "wheres Danica?" The sophomoric drooling over her latest photo shoots (heavily air brushed) is often humorous. Even after few years to solidify her status in the IRL, she remains a controversial figure.

My spouse had an interesting observation the other day. Almost every time Danica drops out of the news or is no longer a topic on racing forums and someone else is getting the headlines, she or her brand managers seem to manufacture some new controversy or story. Her racing hasn't made the news lately, so suddenly there will be an announcement on Windtunnel, or she is visiting race shops, or she is doing ........ She just can't seem to be able to allow her "star" to fade from the sky, and like many B movie figures, will do almost anything to keep her name in the press. That just reinforces the opinion often presented on these forums that celebrity and being in the news is Danica's primary goal, not the goal of being a better race driver.

So just like people gather around a car wreck to satisfy some curiosity, race fans gather around the latest Danica saga to see what rumor her brand managers will start next. Its entertainment.

[indycool]

So, her brand managers start all the hype and if she takes a dump at Stewart's race shop, it titillates the glitterati and paparazzi.

Happens to Julia Roberts all the time. But no one accuses her of not having a "goal" of being a better actress.

[beachbum]

So, her brand managers start all the hype and if she takes a dump at Stewart's race shop, it titillates the glitterati and paparazzi.

Happens to Julia Roberts all the time. But no one accuses her of not having a "goal" of being a better actress.No argument there. Julia Roberts is known for her acting work and that makes her a celebrity. She is still viewed as a serious actress. But at what point does the celebrity overwhelm the substance?

When someone is more famous for what they do outside of their chosen profession than what they do in their profession, they are often judged harshly. Anna Kournikova was actually a very good tennis player, particularly in doubles. But she is more known for what she did off the court and has become a catch word for athletes that focus on celebrity at the expense of their sports career. Natalie Gulbis is another female athlete that chose to self promote in a controversial way and has fought for years to be taken seriously as an athlete.

Some famous people accept celebrity as a consequence of their success, and others use it as a vehicle to try to appear more successful than their talent would suggest.

Will Danica be remembered as racing's version of Kourikova for her escapades away from racing, or for her success as a race driver? IHMO, that question has not yet been answered.

[Jag_Warrior]

O/T: I don't know very much at all about golf, so I had to look up Natalie Gulbis to see who she is.

I still don't know anything about her. But the only thing I can say is, thank you, Beachbum, for mentioning her name. :)

http://apudgeisasandwich.files.wordpress.com/2008/08/nataliegulbis.jpg

OK, back to our regularly scheduled programming: Danica Patrick - When the Legend Becomes Fact, Print the Legend.

[NickFalzone]

The only thing I knew about her is she's that golfer chick that got implants. I do not follow golf though. My guess is that for non-race fans, Danica is that racer chick that gets semi nude alot in FHM type magazines. I guess that's difference with golf and tennis, you can watch the hot women when they're playing, as opposed to covered up head to toe in a racecar.

[Chamoo]

http://apudgeisasandwich.files.wordpress.com/2008/08/nataliegulbis.jpg

Can we teach her to run a Dallara?

[TURN3]

Can we teach her to run a Dallara?

Based on current case history...it doesn't matter!

[EagleEye]

Very well put, which is what common sense has said all along.

EE, sorry to say but your foot is in your mouth on this. You can't state that a contract has been signed and sealed then say things changed...c'mon. From my point of view, which does not include any inside information, this was obvious the ENTIRE time and you just got dooped.

The only time my foot was in my mouth, was when I bashed Nelson back in the day and ate crow after his finish at Milwaukee a few years back. I congratulated him and took my punishment in person.

I did not guess, or predict that DP was going to NASCAR (and she is). I WAS TOLD BY HER FATHER! I said her father told me about this, back in January or February. And, the fact is becoming reality.

You will find that TJ has now been told he can not speak about the ongoing status with DP, as he has a GAG order on him from IMG. We shall see next time we get with him on a golf course...

Again, you can find me at any time, at any track. Would love to see you come by!

[garyshell]

You will find that TJ has now been told he can not speak about the ongoing status with DP, as he has a GAG order on him from IMG.

TJ??? Is that her dad?

Gary

[NickFalzone]

EagleEYe, I also got the NASCAR move earlier in the summer, though not from as direct a source as TJ. That's why I was so surprised a couple weeks ago when it was basically announced that she wasn't going to NASCAR, she was going to AGR. But the reality there is that AGR was simply the IRL team for 2010 she planned to go with, and NASCAR was still going to happen, team to be decided/chosen. The plan from day 1 this year was to sign a full-year deal in 2010 with a quality IRL team, and once that deal was "done", sign with a quality NASCAR team for nationwide and arca races, planning for a full-time move to Nationwide/Cup for the 2011 season. She gets to have her cake and eat it too. And Mikey is fine with this, he gets some solid sponsorship money coming in and knows way ahead of time that in 2011 he'll need a Danica replacement.

[TURN3]

The only time my foot was in my mouth, was when I bashed Nelson back in the day and ate crow after his finish at Milwaukee a few years back. I congratulated him and took my punishment in person.

I did not guess, or predict that DP was going to NASCAR (and she is). I WAS TOLD BY HER FATHER! I said her father told me about this, back in January or February. And, the fact is becoming reality.

You will find that TJ has now been told he can not speak about the ongoing status with DP, as he has a GAG order on him from IMG. We shall see next time we get with him on a golf course...

Again, you can find me at any time, at any track. Would love to see you come by!

Sorry to be the person that points out to you that your foot is ABSOLUTELY in your MOUTH on this. I'm not going to go back and track every post you made on the subject but you said something very close to the effect that the contract was already signed and they were just waiting to make the announcement. You said she was going to NASCAR and at the very least implied she wasn't going to be in Indycar next year. To spare getting into little "isms" that don't make any differenct, I think it is pretty obvious her father is an absolute LIAR (hence her manufactured resume to move her up the ranks) and you were duped. You can try to spin your previous statements any possible way you want but the fact remains she does not have a contract signed in NASCAR and there is no deal for her to be anywhere next year at this point....or if she does it has been in the past couple of weeks. Who knows what has happened since Sonoma.

I don't mean to say you aren't credible, you have what one would think to be a credible source but I contend the source isn't as credible as a father should be. This is the guy that basically lied to get her press hoping to move her up the ladder and I'm sure had something to do with the idea of selling her sexual appeal to get her noticed. I have no respect for him and he is nothing more than a little fish hoping to ride his daughter's mediocre looks to a better life for his entire family. Nothing wrong with being a loving supporting father but when you have no principles it is hard to be respected.

Good luck on retracting your previous comments into the developing storyline.

[EagleEye]

Sorry to be the person that points out to you that your foot is ABSOLUTELY in your MOUTH on this. I'm not going to go back and track every post you made on the subject but you said something very close to the effect that the contract was already signed and they were just waiting to make the announcement. You said she was going to NASCAR and at the very least implied she wasn't going to be in Indycar next year. To spare getting into little "isms" that don't make any differenct, I think it is pretty obvious her father is an absolute LIAR (hence her manufactured resume to move her up the ranks) and you were duped. You can try to spin your previous statements any possible way you want but the fact remains she does not have a contract signed in NASCAR and there is no deal for her to be anywhere next year at this point....or if she does it has been in the past couple of weeks. Who knows what has happened since Sonoma.

I don't mean to say you aren't credible, you have what one would think to be a credible source but I contend the source isn't as credible as a father should be. This is the guy that basically lied to get her press hoping to move her up the ladder and I'm sure had something to do with the idea of selling her sexual appeal to get her noticed. I have no respect for him and he is nothing more than a little fish hoping to ride his daughter's mediocre looks to a better life for his entire family. Nothing wrong with being a loving supporting father but when you have no principles it is hard to be respected.

Good luck on retracting your previous comments into the developing storyline.

I indicated that her Dad told me she was going to NASCAR, and had a deal signed with one particular team. I did not make that up, or guess, or speculate, or anything else for that matter. Since you can not read and you have yet to show your face at any event to discuss this in person, SHE IS GOING TO NASCAR. The only change has been the team (which is still wide open at this time) and if you knew which one it was, you might know that they have had issues over and above those that GM has had.

Since her Dad told me the information first hand (and he told others as well, mind you) he has a gag order in place. The team she HAD signed with was a GM team, and since that deal was done, there were a few issues with GM, that you apparently have not heard about.

I have not "retracted" one thing, and was spot on this, as I have been in the past. That happens when you talk to people at every event...and as I indicated there is a lot of changes going across the board at this time.

Things do change, but in your world, Brett Farve is still retired, becuase he said so. Again, do any of the reporters who reported Favre's retirement have their foots in their mouths? I think not.

If you have something to say, come on and meet me at any event. Others have so it should be easy for you. If you can't read, have some one help you with the schedule and directions to Homestead. I'll be the one on the "otherside" of the fence.

You still do not even know which Canadian (not Tracy, Ranger or Tags) will be joining the series next year, and with whom?

This could end up being a good thing for the IRL, becuase the press Danica is getting for going to the NASCAR has garnered more covereage than any event other than the 500.

[TURN3]

I indicated that her Dad told me she was going to NASCAR, and had a deal signed with one particular team. I did not make that up, or guess, or speculate, or anything else for that matter. Since you can not read and you have yet to show your face at any event to discuss this in person, SHE IS GOING TO NASCAR. The only change has been the team (which is still wide open at this time) and if you knew which one it was, you might know that they have had issues over and above those that GM has had.

Since her Dad told me the information first hand (and he told others as well, mind you) he has a gag order in place. The team she HAD signed with was a GM team, and since that deal was done, there were a few issues with GM, that you apparently have not heard about.

I have not "retracted" one thing, and was spot on this, as I have been in the past. That happens when you talk to people at every event...and as I indicated there is a lot of changes going across the board at this time.

Things do change, but in your world, Brett Farve is still retired, becuase he said so. Again, do any of the reporters who reported Favre's retirement have their foots in their mouths? I think not.

If you have something to say, come on and meet me at any event. Others have so it should be easy for you. If you can't read, have some one help you with the schedule and directions to Homestead. I'll be the one on the "otherside" of the fence.

You still do not even know which Canadian (not Tracy, Ranger or Tags) will be joining the series next year, and with whom?

This could end up being a good thing for the IRL, becuase the press Danica is getting for going to the NASCAR has garnered more covereage than any event other than the 500.

I think you've completely missed the point. I'm not saying you weren't told what you've posted, I'm not calling you a liar. I'm telling you that what you were told wasn't true. And since what you have posted here is proving to be NOT TRUE...your foot is in your mouth.

So I have to chase you down at events now to tell that to your face? I'll be at Long Beach to get my King Taco and Dos XX from Ken. Is that event soon enough for you or do I need to go to Japan or Homestead?

BTW, I was told yesterday that Nostradomas (sp?) predicted the end of the Earth in 2012...OH MY GOOD!!! Somebody told me this so it must be true. Because you can't spin your story don't take it out on me...it is you that can't just say, Yeah I was misinformed. You don't even have to be wrong, just misinformed. Because you were. Those are the facts now. Open mouth remove foot...you sure you want to discuss with me in person?

[TURN3]

I retract anything I've said that is personal. Sorry if telling somebody they're wrong is personal. I take it all back.

[EagleEye]

I retract anything I've said that is personal. Sorry if telling somebody they're wrong is personal. I take it all back.

Danica is going to NASCAR. I was not wrong. Period. Brett Favre is not retired, and the reporters who were told by him and his agent that he was retired, are also not wrong.

After looking at some of the pictures above, maybe we can meet at an LPGA event instead.

[EagleEye]

Open mouth remove foot...you sure you want to discuss with me in person?

But, I can not be held respsonsible where my foot ends up.

[TURN3]

Danica is going to NASCAR. I was not wrong. Period. Brett Favre is not retired, and the reporters who were told by him and his agent that he was retired, are also not wrong.

After looking at some of the pictures above, maybe we can meet at an LPGA event instead.

All I'm saying is that the report you stood by was not what is turning out. You can spin it however you want but what you originally stood by is not what is happening. Just don't try to sugar coat it because nobody here is buying your cookies...and I am in total agreement that we should meet a an LPGA event instead!!


But, I can not be held respsonsible where my foot ends up.

LOL!

[harvick#1]

After looking at some of the pictures above, maybe we can meet at an LPGA event instead.

or even Tennis, watching the US open, there is alot of eye candy :lol:

[beachgirl]

The only change has been the team (which is still wide open at this time) and if you knew which one it was, you might know that they have had issues over and above those that GM has had.

She signed with Jeremy Mayfield???

[indycool]

I think Eagle Eye should be given a little room here. Things change. You do not know if you, or your source, however good the source may be, is on target, ahead or behind the next phone call during the "silly season."

[MDS]

You still do not even know which Canadian (not Tracy, Ranger or Tags) will be joining the series next year, and with whom?

And this is one reason why people think you're a -----. You make Mother Cleo like comments and try to lord your supposed inside knowledge over other people with vague statements.

It pretty much common knowledge that James Hinchcliff has found some backing and is talking with 3G/Curb, and of course there's the difference between you and I. When I hear things I give the details, and if I'm wrong, I'm wrong. I don't try to hold back enough specifics so that if I'm even partially correct it looks like I knew what was going on all along.

3G/Curb isn't what I would have wanted for him, even being a teammate to Nelson at Conquest would be better, but James isn't getting any younger and risks becoming the Andy Houston of open wheel ladder series if he doesn't take a shot at the big time soon. He's another driver who kinda got screwed when Forsythe decided not to come to the IRL. Not that it's Gerry's responsibility, but had Forsythe came over Hinch would have gotten one of those seats by now.

[Chamoo]

And this is one reason why people think you're a D----. You make Mother Cleo like comments and try to lord your supposed inside knowledge over other people with vague statements.

It pretty much common knowledge that James Hinchcliff has found some backing and is talking with 3G/Curb, and of course there's the difference between you and I. When I hear things I give the details, and if I'm wrong, I'm wrong. I don't try to hold back enough specifics so that if I'm even partially correct it looks like I knew what was going on all along.

3G/Curb isn't what I would have wanted for him, even being a teammate to Nelson at Conquest would be better, but James isn't getting any younger and risks becoming the Andy Houston of open wheel ladder series if he doesn't take a shot at the big time soon. He's another driver who kinda got screwed when Forsythe decided not to come to the IRL. Not that it's Gerry's responsibility, but had Forsythe came over Hinch would have gotten one of those seats by now.

Care to throw up a little bit more about Hinch? I pride myself on being pretty up to date with this stuff, but, this is the first I've heard in regards to Hinch getting a ride in the big league.

[SarahFan]

And this is one reason why people think you're a D----. You make Mother Cleo like comments and try to lord your supposed inside knowledge over other people with vague statements.

It pretty much common knowledge that James Hinchcliff has found some backing and is talking with 3G/Curb, and of course there's the difference between you and I. When I hear things I give the details, and if I'm wrong, I'm wrong. I don't try to hold back enough specifics so that if I'm even partially correct it looks like I knew what was going on all along.

3G/Curb isn't what I would have wanted for him, even being a teammate to Nelson at Conquest would be better, but James isn't getting any younger and risks becoming the Andy Houston of open wheel ladder series if he doesn't take a shot at the big time soon. He's another driver who kinda got screwed when Forsythe decided not to come to the IRL. Not that it's Gerry's responsibility, but had Forsythe came over Hinch would have gotten one of those seats by now.

folks think EE is a D---k?

thats news to me

[indycool]

Me too.....not that I don't fuss with him/her once in awhile.

[SarahFan]

Me too.....not that I don't fuss with him/her once in awhile.


you and i on the other hand.... :)

[PA Rick]

As is evident from this thread, Danica is the most talked about driver in the series. She's not the best nor the worst, but the most talked about.

[garyshell]

You still do not even know which Canadian (not Tracy, Ranger or Tags) will be joining the series next year, and with whom?

Could this possibly sound any more like a first grader screaming across the playground "nany, nany, boo, boo"?

If you have something to tell, tell it. If not, then keep it to yourself until you ARE ready to tell it.

Gary

[Gluaistean]

As is evident from this thread, Danica is the most talked about driver in the series. She's not the best nor the worst, but the most talked about.


You sure got that right. I was about to start ranting about all the attention she gets when ..duh...here I am reading about her again.

"Oh, the humanity"



But, since it is fill in the blanks the poster is as guilty as the person he charges with giving out only snippets of information. Keeping it vague and having a way out if accused. Hmmmmmmm

[indycool]

No, EE, we don't, and if you were sure, you would tell us. This is the time of the year when you don't know when you're ahead, on time or behind. Your wife says she's going to the store for some eggs. You say okay. She changes her mind and gets her hair done first. Someone calls on the phone for your wife and asks where she is. What do you respond? "She went to the store to get some eggs." And you're behind, through no fault of your own .

[MDS]

Care to throw up a little bit more about Hinch? I pride myself on being pretty up to date with this stuff, but, this is the first I've heard in regards to Hinch getting a ride in the big league.

There isn't a whole lot to tell really. I personally haven't spoken with Hinch since Long Beach other than some witty back and forth things on Facebook and Twitter. But I have a lot of friends and family who are involved in the sport and heard it, rather matter of factly, through one of them.

I suppose its possible Eagel Eye that could have some inside source about Danny Morad coming to the ICS next year. Its possible that Jaquces Villeneuve or Patrick Carpentier could come back. I guess its even possible that Red Bull is going to come in with Robert Wickins and Branden Hartley. I suppose I should make comments criptic enough to cover all the possibilities. But as far as I'm aware the only Canadian outside of Tags and PT who has a chance at going full time next year is Hinchcliff with a bottom run team like 3G

[NickFalzone]

Now it sounds like Jr's team is going to make an offer for Danica, I know they do Nationwide and maybe Truck? But not Arca:

http://www.nascar.com/video/audio/2009/09/09/nascartoday.mid.wed.audio.nascar

[garyshell]

Does anyone else see a bit of history repeating itself? It started with the France family whispering into King George's ear encouraging him to start his own series. Now we have NASCAR trying to lure away Danica, certainly not because of her ability to handle those cars, but because of the press coverage she brings to the IRL. They could care less if she comes there and falls on her face, which she will. They just want her name out of the news and Jr's back in. They are willing to tolerate, or even revel in, the initial hoopla she would generate. And then they will gladly watch her recede into the shadows as she drops like a rock in the standings and doesn't make the show week after week.

Call me paranoid if you want, but I think the Princess is being played as a pawn in a much bigger game than she or her STUPID father understands. Young Mr. France is a consummate jerk, and this is just the sort of thing he would relish in pulling off.

My $.02

Gary

[Lee Roy]

http://www.indystar.com/article/20090909/SPORTS15/909090353/1052/SPORTS01/IRL+can+t+survive+a+Danica+defection

More Info.

[beachbum]

http://www.indystar.com/article/20090909/SPORTS15/909090353/1052/SPORTS01/IRL+can+t+survive+a+Danica+defection

More Info.Some people have a rather inflated view of her power. Someday, for some reason, she will leave the IRL, just as other household names like Mario Andretti and AJ Foyt left racing when they retired. The world didn't stop spinning, and racing survived. To claim that "This is even worse than the PGA Tour losing Tiger Woods" is just plain silly. IHMO, only a few myopic people are so deluded to think she carries that much "star" value.

Articles like that one just prove you can fool some of the people all of the time.

[harvick#1]

totally agree beachbum, and as repeating myself here, she isn't making the tracks sellout and TV racing aren't getting high numbers. she was a sell back in 04 and 05, but for all the pissing and moaning she does, people started not caring and the media making her the best thing since sliced bread while the results dont show, everyone will rag on her being overrated as she is.

The series will survive without Danica, no question, in fact it will prolly improve as fans can actually watch the racing again without hearing the Danica update every 5 minutes while shes struggling in 15th. the sport still has plenty of fan favorites in Helio, Sarah, Scott, Dario, Ryan, and PT.

[Blancvino]

Some people have a rather inflated view of her power. Someday, for some reason, she will leave the IRL, just as other household names like Mario Andretti and AJ Foyt left racing when they retired. The world didn't stop spinning, and racing survived. To claim that "This is even worse than the PGA Tour losing Tiger Woods" is just plain silly. IHMO, only a few myopic people are so deluded to think she carries that much "star" value.

Articles like that one just prove you can fool some of the people all of the time.

In my view, ALL of auto racing is near the end of its useful life (within 10 years there will be little more than niche interest). I think rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic is a good analogy as to the state of affairs of auto racing, world wide.

[Chris R]

In my view, ALL of auto racing is near the end of its useful life (within 10 years there will be little more than niche interest). I think rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic is a good analogy as to the state of affairs of auto racing, world wide.

This statement may be far more accurate than many of us would like to admit.....

I personally think the future of motorsports is as a "retro" sport - both in terms of historic racing and in terms of realizing the days of record breaking, technical relevance to the larger world, and general technical progression of the sport are pretty much done. Fundamentally cars cannot get faster without serious problems, there is little, if any, technology that a race car can develop better than something else and the sport has become far to expensive for its own good... furthermore, it is hard to create genuine heroes is the sport loses the cutting edge/danger/out of reach of the common person aspect that has made race car drivers so compelling for much of the history of racing....

guys like Foyt, Hurtibuise, Parnelli, Mario, Lauda, Tommy Milton, Jimmy Murphy etc. were characters and "heroes" in the sense they were putting their lives on the line, were often full of personality, and were doing stuff you and I could not do or could not imagine how we might be able to do... These modern drivers are boring marketing tools driving at speeds that we all know you can "easily" achieve - sometimes in a Corvette or a $10,000 "superbike".... there is no mystery to it anymore....

[beachbum]

In my view, ALL of auto racing is near the end of its useful life (within 10 years there will be little more than niche interest). I think rearranging deck chairs on the Titanic is a good analogy as to the state of affairs of auto racing, world wide.That proclamation has bee made for the last 20-30 years or more. Some predicted it would be legislated out of existence years ago. Yet, racing still has a strong following. Reports of its death are very premature.

[Chamoo]

I suppose its possible Eagel Eye that could have some inside source about Danny Morad coming to the ICS next year. Its possible that Jaquces Villeneuve or Patrick Carpentier could come back. I guess its even possible that Red Bull is going to come in with Robert Wickins and Branden Hartley. I suppose I should make comments criptic enough to cover all the possibilities. But as far as I'm aware the only Canadian outside of Tags and PT who has a chance at going full time next year is Hinchcliff with a bottom run team like 3G

I have heard Daniel Morad in the second FAZZT entry if they run two cars.

Beck/3G have had rumors swirling around every now and then that they wanted to run two cars in 2010. Would that be the plan? Maybe Antinucci and Hinchcliffe?

I just realized, this is a Danica thread, I think I will start a new one for 2010 silly season.

[Easy Drifter]

Whatever. The "Danica Brand" is keeping it in the news. Is she going here, is she going there, is she going to bed (OOOOPS).
Just look at this thread.
The Toronto Sun motorsport columnist has an update on her constantly and he reports 90% on taxi cabs.
Another forum I belong to, which has many thousand members and DF belongs to, doesn't even bother with her except for DF.
She, or her mgt. team promote her, not motorsport.
I admit I do not like her but I feel she is an adequate driver in IRL.
Anywhere else the Jury is not even sequestered yet.
HOWEVER, I do not think she is a RACER. Driver yes, Racer No.

[TURN3]

So many good points here to quote them all, I agree with many. Nice to see people in this thread with actual value to their input for a change (especially regarding Danica). As far as IRL surviving without THE DANICA...I've argued with my GF (whom can't stand Danica either) that short of some casual fans at the races, she does very little for or against attendence or especially TV ratings. Not to bring up a Champ Car vs IRL war subject but weren't Champ Cars rating about pretty much the same as the IRL before the merger? If I'm not mistaken I believe attendence was better for Champ Car races too. Of course I'm speculating without looking up actual facts. But it is to be considered being that Danica was in the IRL. I'm excluding Indy obviously.

Another point to make, looking at the recently posted TV ratings...The races where PT was most promoted (Indy and Toronto) were the 2 highest ratings of the year (Watkins Glen, Mid-Ohio, and Milwaukee where basically last minute additions for him and weren't promoted as a race with him). I recently saw a TV show ranking PT as the 4th most recognizable race car driver in the world (with F1 in the mix I'm not a believer of that for what it is worth). My point being Danica has brought a lot of attention in her first couple of years based purely on photo shoots. A guy like PT, a proven winner and constant on and off track entertainment has more value to the IRL than Danica. That is just my opinion looking at some of these points.

[Blancvino]

Oh I don't know about that. I was at an SCCA race this past weekend that had close to 300 entries. It wasn't the June Sprints or the SCCA run offs, it was a regional race. The tracks, at least the ones in the mid Atlantic area, are busy most every day with cars, bikes or carts. Grassroots support is very strong. That bodes well for the future.

I hope you are right. For me to be wrong on my assessment would be good.

[EagleEye]

And this is one reason why people think you're a -----. You make Mother Cleo like comments and try to lord your supposed inside knowledge over other people with vague statements.

It pretty much common knowledge that James Hinchcliff has found some backing and is talking with 3G/Curb, and of course there's the difference between you and I. When I hear things I give the details, and if I'm wrong, I'm wrong. I don't try to hold back enough specifics so that if I'm even partially correct it looks like I knew what was going on all along.

3G/Curb isn't what I would have wanted for him, even being a teammate to Nelson at Conquest would be better, but James isn't getting any younger and risks becoming the Andy Houston of open wheel ladder series if he doesn't take a shot at the big time soon. He's another driver who kinda got screwed when Forsythe decided not to come to the IRL. Not that it's Gerry's responsibility, but had Forsythe came over Hinch would have gotten one of those seats by now.

Right driver, wrong team (s). He looks to be coming for sure next year, but it will not be with 3G/Curb or any variation of that outfit. I bet you a pair of signed Zanardi gloves on it. An must not be common knowledge, since it has not been reported...anywhere.

Only you and another have used such personal attacks, like calling me an a-#$%. Very mature. The others true fans, who actually make it to races are quite nice, informed and enjoy good discussions, freebies and good food at hospitality!

Danica's father told me a deal was done. I called the NASCAR car owner in question and asked him, and he said it was done but I could not report it "elsewhere" so I chose to do so here. And, I am still not wrong, just as those who reported that Favre is retired, were not wrong AT THAT TIME. Some things change, and I never once backed off it by saying "oh now she is coming back to AGR" as many posted here (and which for now is also not fact). As I said, there are a lot of things going on at this time. She is going to NASCAR, but it might not be in 2010, 2011, 2012..?

Sine then, GM is has some serious issues, and has had to restructure, TJ is under a gag order, and Danica is still going to NASCAR.

I have been wrong, or missed things. For example, after the Kentucky race, I mentioned here that I "missed the Dorrbos thing" and did not have a clue it was coming.

If you do not want infomred inside scopps here, ahead of the "official" or standard reporting elsewhere, no problem.

You and your boyfriend can meet me in Longbeach, start finish line, pitside an hour before the race next year. Bring me some El Pollo loco, and peace may be at hand. If peace comes earlier, you could end up in hospitality, and some signed driver goods...it is all up to you and your beau.

Things are a a mess, at best for the ICS. There is little good to discuss, and these is so much going on this time that one can only hope some good news arrives soon.

[SoCalPVguy]

You and your boyfriend can meet me in Longbeach, start finish line, pitside an hour before the race next year. Bring me some El Pollo loco, and peace may be at hand. If peace comes earlier, you could end up in hospitality, and some signed driver goods...

I am happy to bring my wife (not boyfriend *LOL*) and meet you at long beach, not only will I bring El Pollo Loco I wil get you a King Taco if we can end up in hospitality !!!

[SoCalPVguy]

Things are a a mess, at best for the ICS. There is little good to discuss, and these is so much going on this time that one can only hope some good news arrives soon.

You are SO right !!! ICS is a mess now with no viable media or TV coverage, no name drivers, and lack of sponsorships, amid a lessening economy.

I had hoped that after the "merger"; that the confusion in the marketplace regarding open wheel racing would have resulted in a strengthening of OWR's position but it hasn't worked out that way.

[TURN3]

Any inside info you can bring to forum members I think would be appreciated if you actually report it. The impression I have of you (and I think the other members) is that you think you know everything. Instead of making a statement you sort of float information out there where you can spin it to look like you actually knew all the details. If you are hearing rumors or have some inside info say something like "I'm hearing...." or something to that effect. Your ...there's a driver from Canada not named Tags or PT that might have gotten a speeding ticket when he was 12 that if you spell his name with a cryptic code backwards then turn it upside....is crap. Just be real, things change, rumors turn out to be false, but you seem to make a really big deal about making sure you look like a genious. It has backfired numerous times and that is why you get negative feedback.

[MDS]

Right driver, wrong team (s). He looks to be coming for sure next year, but it will not be with 3G/Curb or any variation of that outfit. I bet you a pair of signed Zanardi gloves on it. An must not be common knowledge, since it has not been reported...anywhere.

Then what team? Why leave it open if it's locked up? At least I give the info I have and don't try to lord it over people to play some guessing game for your own enjoyment. I've heard some other rumors I can't repeat without giving up my source, but yeah, Hinch is more than likely going to be the IRL next year and has talked with several teams, 3G/Curb included.


Only you and another have used such personal attacks, like calling me an a-#$%. Very mature. The others true fans, who actually make it to races are quite nice, informed and enjoy good discussions, freebies and good food at hospitality!

Danica's father told me a deal was done. I called the NASCAR car owner in question and asked him, and he said it was done but I could not report it "elsewhere" so I chose to do so here. ....

You and your boyfriend can meet me in Longbeach, start finish line, pitside an hour before the race next year. Bring me some El Pollo loco, and peace may be at hand. If peace comes earlier, you could end up in hospitality, and some signed driver goods...it is all up to you and your beau.


First of all I didn't call you an a-- I just said that certain comments make people think you are one. If you have information why share bits of it in tiny bits cryptic enough to make a telephone psychic proud? Either its solid info or its not. Reporters should not be in the business of spreading rumors.

As far as Long Beach goes, thanks, but we have standing reservations at the Hyatt and several hospitality invites from my personal and professional connections. Maybe we'll run into you, but I doubt it because I don't need the drama, and trust me, I can spot you, and I doubt you can find me.

I made it to two races this year, and next year I'll be at least three, and maybe Indy if they get the aero package right, and more likely than not Toronto. If they had more races in the south, and/or brought back Cleveland and/or Detroit, I'd go to more.

[EagleEye]

Then what team? Why leave it open if it's locked up? At least I give the info I have and don't try to lord it over people to play some guessing game for your own enjoyment. I've heard some other rumors I can't repeat without giving up my source, but yeah, Hinch is more than likely going to be the IRL next year and has talked with several teams, 3G/Curb included.


You made a bad guess "Curb" despite no info at all, just as you posted about Bourdais/Red Bull/AGR...that was not based on fact at all. Same with the Silly Season nonsense you posted. Talk about a crystal ball!

There are at least 3-4 teams in play (they have never talked to 3G) for JH. This is based on direct converstations with the players and watching his him and his manager talk to people in the paddock. And there really is nothing to report as far as which team, because it is way to early and there are a lot of things going on.

For example, Danica has still not signed with AG, despite everyone's (including yours) assumption made after Sonoma. That is really the first thing that has to get sorted, as it has huge implications in the paddock. If she were to sign with someone else there would be a huge hole at AG. AG would have a big money issue, and drivers bringing some support would come into play. This is the first shoe that needs to drop. The second would be Power and Penske, as Ganassi might run a third if the Captain brings Power back to the fold. And we all know he wants to, but the money has to be there. And then it goes on from there...

Money, not talent will rule the off season.

Silly season is in full swing, and there are things I would love to share. FWIT, Penske15 will also be able to provide some spot on information...I think I know who it is especially after being at Sarah's shop when she got her new chassis. Maybe we can just bring up some good stories from RA and Long Beach.

[garyshell]

Now don't guess, but> which driver tried to have a three-some with his PR girl and his girlfriend after the CART awards dinner? Apparently things went well for a bit, until the girlfirend had a change of heart and a fight spilled into the hallway and had to be broken up by a CART official. Some things you either know, or don't.

It would not be appropriate to post who it is, but if you name (not guess) the right driver (and CART official) I come here and say you were spot on. If you just want to know, ping me, but don't post it.


So what is this, the freakin' National Enquirer? This has become down right sleazy. What right do you have even posting this sort of TRASH, let alone offering to whisper who it is to the right ear that bows and kisses your ring?

I for one think you have REALLY stepped over the line here. First it starts off with all you chest thumping, I know the inside scoop and the rest of you are a bunch of peons, attitude. Then it gets into the private lives of one of our members with your cute little comments about someone's boyfriend. Now its reduced to this sort of BS. Maybe you do have the inside track. But frankly Scarlett...

MDS was right, folks think you are a ...

Gary

[SarahFan]

hook line and sinker

[Lousada]

So what is this, the freakin' National Enquirer? This has become down right sleazy. What right do you have even posting this sort of TRASH, let alone offering to whisper who it is to the right ear that bows and kisses your ring?

I for one think you have REALLY stepped over the line here. First it starts off with all you chest thumping, I know the inside scoop and the rest of you are a bunch of peons, attitude. Then it gets into the private lives of one of our members with your cute little comments about someone's boyfriend. Now its reduced to this sort of BS. Maybe you do have the inside track. But frankly Scarlett...

MDS was right, folks think you are a ...

Gary

That is exactly what I wanted to post :up:

[drewdawg727]

Boy am i glad i'm not getting hit with any mud here.................

[SarahFan]

hook line and sinker


well that post doesn't make much sense after the thread was sanitized....


but it's almost comical how they same folks take the bait over and over and over again

[MDS]

You made a bad guess "Curb" despite no info at all, just as you posted about Bourdais/Red Bull/AGR...that was not based on fact at all. Same with the Silly Season nonsense you posted. Talk about a crystal ball!

First of all, I said that was entirely speculation and a rumor I heard on another board when I posted it. I never claimed to have any sort of inside information about where Seabass would end up.

That's the difference between you and I, I usually state the source of what I'm hearing. Also if you read my posts you'll notice I was the first one to hint that Doornbos was out at NHL before the end of the year.

I said I believe DP will be back with Boost at AGR, but I've never said a contract is done and dusted.

Also, if the deal's not done why are you making statements that make it seem like you know what the driver/team combo is when you're just hearing the same rumor that I am? Hinch has some backers, he's talking to a couple of teams, 3G included, about buying a ride next year. I know at least one of the other teams, but I don't want to say it for fear of violating a trust, and since you haven't named it yet I don't want to add to your knowledge.

Difference is you heard a rumor that might be true and you wrote it like it was a secret you knew and no one else did. If you were more descriptive like "I've heard that a Canadian is talking with several times about a full time ride in 2010, but I don't know," or "can't say any more," then there wouldn't be issues.

[EagleEye]

First of all, I said that was entirely speculation and a rumor I heard on another board when I posted it. I never claimed to have any sort of inside information about where Seabass would end up.

That's the difference between you and I, I usually state the source of what I'm hearing. Also if you read my posts you'll notice I was the first one to hint that Doornbos was out at NHL before the end of the year.

I said I believe DP will be back with Boost at AGR, but I've never said a contract is done and dusted.

Also, if the deal's not done why are you making statements that make it seem like you know what the driver/team combo is when you're just hearing the same rumor that I am? Hinch has some backers, he's talking to a couple of teams, 3G included, about buying a ride next year. I know at least one of the other teams, but I don't want to say it for fear of violating a trust, and since you haven't named it yet I don't want to add to your knowledge.

Difference is you heard a rumor that might be true and you wrote it like it was a secret you knew and no one else did. If you were more descriptive like "I've heard that a Canadian is talking with several times about a full time ride in 2010, but I don't know," or "can't say any more," then there wouldn't be issues.

They have NOT talked to 3G at all.

The difference is you guess, while I actually talk to people.

You will note that (starting to repeat myself) that I totally missed on the Doorbos thing, and I was actually there and talked to him that weekend. I had no clue or indication that was going to happen, that way at least. Your guess there was correct.

As for the "edited" material above, and Starter can back me up on this, there were no insults or negative comments directed at you. I asked about an incident that happend some time ago at the CART awards dinner. It was a bit too "R" rated for this forum.

just letting you know...

[TURN3]

EE, I have a question for you in good faith. It doesn't pertain to Danica or Danica sucking so it really doesn't belong here but, with regard to silly season, what are the rumors about PT you have floating around? I haven't talked to anybody or pretend to know some secret but I have a funny feeling something is up. My intuition tells me he is close to getting sponsors lined up for a full season to go along with Geico on ABC races...but with nothing being signed or official there is an effort to keep it under wraps. Just curious if you're hearing anything in his camp.

[MDS]

They have NOT talked to 3G at all.

The difference is you guess, while I actually talk to people.

I'm not guessing, I know he talked with 3G, and unless your source is Hinch, which seems unlikely because he's a pretty tactful guy, and you specifically asked about 3G and they told you the truth you don't know for sure. And givin how you've represented things as fact before I'm pretty sure you don't know for absolute truth.

As someone who has leaked things to the press on a couple of occasions let me tell you how these things work. No one tells you complete and total truth. Truth is Hinch has talked with 3G, even if it isn't his first, second, or third choice. How many high school football players spread rumors that scouts from D1 Schools are looking at them only to end up at mid-teir D2 schools.

No one gives reporters insider info for fun, but because they hope to gain something about it, you're probably being gamed my friend.

[PA Rick]

Some people have a rather inflated view of her power. Someday, for some reason, she will leave the IRL, just as other household names like Mario Andretti and AJ Foyt left racing when they retired. The world didn't stop spinning, and racing survived. ......
But neither AJ nor Mario are the "future winner of the Indy 500" :)

[Gluaistean]

Danica will stay in the IRL because IMG or whoever is marketing her knows that she would be a total flop in NASCAR.

If she ever qualified or was part of the system they use in NASCAR where so many points guarantess an entry can you imagine her running side by side nose to nose, tail to tail with all those cars? No freakin way!!!

Danica has some talent but is an overhyped useful appetizer to the the fringe viewer. Every oval I turn to always seems to indicate she is running 5th , 6th or 7th. With the money she has from Motorola I would expect she have podiums and wins galore at this stage.

Turn 3 mentioned earlier that she had superior quality machinery or words to that effect. I agree. Give Sarah Fisher that car and I bet there would have been wins by now. Oh, more than one fuel conservation win at "Motegi Japan" wink wink.

By the way. this 2,3,4 car argument I hear depending on DP staying becuase of her large sponsorship; what does that have to do with Motorola. If they are sponsoring Patrick why should that impact any other part of the team. Are you suggesting a Adrian Fernadez, Tecate, Gigante scenario???

[EagleEye]

Danica will stay in the IRL because IMG or whoever is marketing her knows that she would be a total flop in NASCAR.

If she ever qualified or was part of the system they use in NASCAR where so many points guarantess an entry can you imagine her running side by side nose to nose, tail to tail with all those cars? No freakin way!!!

Danica has some talent but is an overhyped useful appetizer to the the fringe viewer. Every oval I turn to always seems to indicate she is running 5th , 6th or 7th. With the money she has from Motorola I would expect she have podiums and wins galore at this stage.

IMG is leading the charge for her to go to NASCAR. They get paid a percentage of what she makes and the money potential is at least three times or more in NASCAR than in the IRL. Dale Jr. is a total flop in NASCAR, performance wise, yet he remains one of the top (if not the top) in money earned through his "brand".

Performance is not a consideration for IMG, but building the brand and maximizing the cash potential is. She is currently earns more in the IRL than any other driver, yet her performance, as you noted, falls below several others.

It is not a question of if, but when. IMG and NASCAR want her to take the jump next year (the boost in ratings, justifies their pursuit). The ball is firmly in her court and there are several intersting scenarios in place that she could go after.

If she leaves AGR/AG, that would put a huge hole in the budget, and there would be some significant changes in the team structure.

[SarahFan]

anyone have any idea when this will all finnally play out?

[Blancvino]

anyone have any idea when this will all finnally play out?

When the check clears the bank.

[beachbum]

IMG is leading the charge for her to go to NASCAR. They get paid a percentage of what she makes and the money potential is at least three times or more in NASCAR than in the IRL. Dale Jr. is a total flop in NASCAR, performance wise, yet he remains one of the top (if not the top) in money earned through his "brand".

Performance is not a consideration for IMG, but building the brand and maximizing the cash potential is. She is currently earns more in the IRL than any other driver, yet her performance, as you noted, falls below several others.

It is not a question of if, but when. IMG and NASCAR want her to take the jump next year (the boost in ratings, justifies their pursuit). The ball is firmly in her court and there are several intersting scenarios in place that she could go after.The obvious take is that people around her are just in it for the money. There may be potential there, but I disagree that the ball in her court. She doesn't own the ball, or the team.

What seems forgotten is that it isn't up to her or even IMG to decide if she gets a contract offer. She can "go after" anything she wants, but she may not get it. Her "brand" isn't that powerful. Some team has to decide that she brings enough to the team to convince them to make an offer. Of course, she (or IMG) could buy a ride. From the few reports that have surfaced, IMG was not met with open arms with their "charge" to get her into NASCAR.

The suggestion is that she will bring in so much money someone will take her on just for the sponsorship and promotion. Yet no one have shown where these big money sponsors are coming from. In a day when top teams with proven winners are having trouble getting and keeping sponsors, the idea that a novelty act will be the hot ticket just seems a bit far-fetched. At some level, performance does count.

There has been a long pattern shown by Danica and her handlers making repeated claims of opportunities that turned out to be pipe dreams, or just plain fantasy. Over the years, people from Bernie E to Jack Roush and Tony Steward have found themselves forced to make public statements disputing claims from her camp.

As the saying goes, I will believe it when I see it. IMHO, her little gamesmanship to push up the value of her "brand" could backfire. A number of people have suggested that she may not have a chair when the music stops.

As for Dale, Jr being a flop, that is just hogwash. There are many in NASCAR who would take his record, even this year. Not only has he won multiple times in Sprint Cup (18), but has been in the top 10 in points 4 times. In Busch he had 22 wins and 2 championships. Not bad for a flop.

[TURN3]

The obvious take is that people around her are just in it for the money. There may be potential there, but I disagree that the ball in her court. She doesn't own the ball, or the team.

What seems forgotten is that it isn't up to her or even IMG to decide if she gets a contract offer. She can "go after" anything she wants, but she may not get it. Her "brand" isn't that powerful. Some team has to decide that she brings enough to the team to convince them to make an offer. Of course, she (or IMG) could buy a ride. From the few reports that have surfaced, IMG was not met with open arms with their "charge" to get her into NASCAR.

The suggestion is that she will bring in so much money someone will take her on just for the sponsorship and promotion. Yet no one have shown where these big money sponsors are coming from. In a day when top teams with proven winners are having trouble getting and keeping sponsors, the idea that a novelty act will be the hot ticket just seems a bit far-fetched. At some level, performance does count.

There has been a long pattern shown by Danica and her handlers making repeated claims of opportunities that turned out to be pipe dreams, or just plain fantasy. Over the years, people from Bernie E to Jack Roush and Tony Steward have found themselves forced to make public statements disputing claims from her camp.

As the saying goes, I will believe it when I see it. IMHO, her little gamesmanship to push up the value of her "brand" could backfire. A number of people have suggested that she may not have a chair when the music stops.

As for Dale, Jr being a flop, that is just hogwash. There are many in NASCAR who would take his record, even this year. Not only has he won multiple times in Sprint Cup (18), but has been in the top 10 in points 4 times. In Busch he had 22 wins and 2 championships. Not bad for a flop.

I would tend to agree with regard to Danica. This is what I've been saying all along, in part. I don't think she'll be left without a seat simply because she does have some sponsorship backing. Even if not to the level that Motorola and her group from the past 3 years, she does seem to have some coming to the table (i.e. Boost, Go Sissy, etc.). Because money is at such a premium, I'm sure somebody will put her in something on the IRL grid unfortunately.

I'm not a fan of Dale Jr. by any means, much for the same reason I'm not of Danica. His performance does not live up to his hype. By NASCAR standards he's probably not a flop because he has won and he has been competitive. The big BUT is though, he's been in bar none top of the crop Hendrick equipment now for 2 years and has not only been dusted by his teammates, he hasn't sniffed anything more than a Danica-like fuel economy win at MIS last year. The comparison between the 2 of them is fair, Dale Jr. has just a little more of an argument that he's not a flop.

[Jag_Warrior]

I'm not a big Dale, Jr. fan either. But just because of all that he's won in the past (including the Daytona 500) and the fact that she's a one time lifetime winner, maybe he is a has been now - but The Danica really is a never was. Let's just be honest folks; there is one reason, and only one reason that Danica comes up in discussions. What other one time lifetime winner gets a thread, much less multiple threads? By winning that one race, she did accomplish something. I wouldn't take that away from her. But just as a driver, gender aside, what are we talking about? Not much, IMO. She's a PR created, media sensation.

Strictly as a race car driver, she's got more in common with Buckshot Jones than she does Dale, Jr. (IMO).

[beachbum]

I'm not a big Dale, Jr. fan either. But just because of all that he's won in the past (including the Daytona 500) and the fact that she's a one time lifetime winner, maybe he is a has been now - but The Danica really is a never was. Let's just be honest folks; there is one reason, and only one reason that Danica comes up in discussions. What other one time lifetime winner gets a thread, much less multiple threads? By winning that one race, she did accomplish something. I wouldn't take that away from her. But just as a driver, gender aside, what are we talking about? Not much, IMO. She's a PR created, media sensation.

Strictly as a race car driver, she's got more in common with Buckshot Jones than she does Dale, Jr. (IMO).Two points to make. Hendrick has always seems to have 3 very good teams and one that is doing relatively poorly. For years it was the 5 team with revolving drivers. This year, it seems Junior's team is the laggard. I am not a big fan of Junior, but at least he often uses his popularity to take some controversial positions about the sport. For the record, Junior's average finish in 2006 and 2008 was higher than Jeff Gordon's, so I guess Gordon was a flop those years.

Second point. GoDaddy just announced major sponsorship of Mark Martin at Hendrick, as well as retaining the sponsorship at Junior's team. As big as they are, that probably doesn't leave much left over for Danica. Since many thought they were her big hope for big bucks, things may not be so rosy on her sponsorship front.

IHMO, she will be back at AGR next year, but the contract may not be as good as she has now. Early rumors were that it would only be a 1 year deal, and after all of the noise about going to NASCAR, I can't see AGR wanting to make a long term commitment.

[EagleEye]

The obvious take is that people around her are just in it for the money. There may be potential there, but I disagree that the ball in her court. She doesn't own the ball, or the team.

She has plenty of offers. She owns the "brand", and that is what people are after.

[/quote]What seems forgotten is that it isn't up to her or even IMG to decide if she gets a contract offer. She can "go after" anything she wants, but she may not get it. Her "brand" isn't that powerful. Some team has to decide that she brings enough to the team to convince them to make an offer. Of course, she (or IMG) could buy a ride. From the few reports that have surfaced, IMG was not met with open arms with their "charge" to get her into NASCAR.{/quote]

Actually she has a signed deal with IMG, and they have a financial interest in her. While the decision is hers to make, IMG pulls a lot of weight. And her "brand" is stronger than you think.

[/quote]
The suggestion is that she will bring in so much money someone will take her on just for the sponsorship and promotion. Yet no one have shown where these big money sponsors are coming from. In a day when top teams with proven winners are having trouble getting and keeping sponsors, the idea that a novelty act will be the hot ticket just seems a bit far-fetched. At some level, performance does count.[/quote]

Motorola, Boost, Go Daddy have been onboard. GM, Ford, Honda, and many others are more than interested. And then there is this small operation called NASCAR. They have run the numbers, and see a fairly large boost in ratings and ticket sales for races that feature Danica.

[/quote]There has been a long pattern shown by Danica and her handlers making repeated claims of opportunities that turned out to be pipe dreams, or just plain fantasy. Over the years, people from Bernie E to Jack Roush and Tony Steward have found themselves forced to make public statements disputing claims from her camp. [/quote]

AGREE!! But I think the economy has had more to do with it than spin. Her original deal went south when GM had issues. Now that TJ has been silenced, a bit, things will play out.

[/quote]As the saying goes, I will believe it when I see it. IMHO, her little gamesmanship to push up the value of her "brand" could backfire. A number of people have suggested that she may not have a chair when the music stops.{/quote]

You will see it soon! She will be one of the top money "earners", and I use the term loosely. I agree she has not really earned it...

[/quote]As for Dale, Jr being a flop, that is just hogwash. There are many in NASCAR who would take his record, even this year. Not only has he won multiple times in Sprint Cup (18), but has been in the top 10 in points 4 times. In Busch he had 22 wins and 2 championships. Not bad for a flop.[/quote]

He has been a major flop with the top team in NASCAR. No chase, one win and lags far behind his other team-mates. Very bad for a Hendrick driver!

[Gluaistean]

IMG is leading the charge for her to go to NASCAR. They get paid a percentage of what she makes and the money potential is at least three times or more in NASCAR than in the IRL. Dale Jr. is a total flop in NASCAR, performance wise, yet he remains one of the top (if not the top) in money earned through his "brand".

Performance is not a consideration for IMG, but building the brand and maximizing the cash potential is. She is currently earns more in the IRL than any other driver, yet her performance, as you noted, falls below several others.

It is not a question of if, but when. IMG and NASCAR want her to take the jump next year (the boost in ratings, justifies their pursuit). The ball is firmly in her court and there are several intersting scenarios in place that she could go after.



If she leaves AGR/AG, that would put a huge hole in the budget, and there would be some significant changes in the team structure.



EE, rational response to my post. I agree with you on the monetary aspect. I had not thought of the dollar ruling the day. Should have since I am in advertising. Must have been early for this cantankerous old man

[beachbum]

She has plenty of offers. She owns the "brand", and that is what people are after.

Motorola, Boost, Go Daddy have been onboard. GM, Ford, Honda, and many others are more than interested. And then there is this small operation called NASCAR. They have run the numbers, and see a fairly large boost in ratings and ticket sales for races that feature Danica.Maybe it is just me, but this is beginning to sound like the "Boy Who Cried Wolf". We have heard this story many times before in one guise or another.

When she went to England, her group claimed she had the endorsement of Bernie - He released a rather pointed denial.

When in FF, she claimed to have Ford as a patron with Jackie Stewart's backing - Yet Ford never mentioned any backing in any PR and Jackie made a tepid denial.

Rahal claimed to have a ride lined up for Danica at Paul Stewart Racing in F3 - but then Rahal got fired and the F3 money dried up.

After coming back to the US in 2002, she got a number of tests set up by Rahal. One was a Busch car and the claim was that she was going to get more tests - Somehow they all got canceled.

She tested a BWM GT car and even claimed to have a contract - but the team had already known they would not be racing the next year because of a rule change. She did get a job at BWM - giving demo rides to customer.

When Ford ran a driver search in 2004 to find a woman driver to support fro development to move to NASCAR, Danica wasn't in the group or even mentioned. Oddly enough, the person behind the driver search was the same person her group claimed in 2002 was their patron at Ford -John Szymanski.

Rahal got her a ride in a ProDrive Ferrari in ALMS and claimed to have the ride for the year - yet she was pulled from the car in the middle of her first race before her stint was over and never drove for them again.

In 2006, she claimed to have an offer from Rousch - Jack revealed in an interview that there was no contract, just a few complimentary tickets.

When she ran the Grand-Am last year at Daytona there was much hoopla - yet she missed a couple stints, and didn't complete others.

Earlier this year, it was rumored Tony Stewart was going to be her new mentor in NASCAR - He issues a press release that they just talked.

Somehow throughout her carrier, her PR machine has indicated she had support from many manufacturers at different times. Ford in England, BMW for a time, Toyota in Atlantics, Honda in the IRL, and now - well everyone. Honda was the only one to publicly acknowledge support.

Some of the funnier PR "speaks" came in an article (http://www.europeancarweb.com/features/0306ec_danica_patrick/index.html) in 2004.

Concerning Toyota - "but as title sponsor and engine supplier, couldn't afford to be seen as favoring one driver by providing Patrick sponsorship"

Concerning Ford - "while Ford would love to have a photogenic young woman in one of its stock cars (think of the sponsorship possibilities!), the company has been understanding of her priorities"

Just what is real about Danica and what is a "brand" created by the fertile minds of PR people and based on imagination? Eventually, this will all play out and we "might" get the truth. Then again, maybe not.

[garyshell]

Maybe it is just me, but this is beginning to sound like the "Boy Who Cried Wolf". We have heard this story many times before in one guise or another.

Oh come now, you are just making too much sense. I mean come on, Eagle Eye has already told us the deal is done, game over, no questions. And we know he is always right, just ask him.

Gary

[EagleEye]

Oh come now, you are just making too much sense. I mean come on, Eagle Eye has already told us the deal is done, game over, no questions. And we know he is always right, just ask him.

Gary

A deal was done, as I was told by her father, and the car owner. Her father has since had a gag order in place, and the automotive industry went into a tailspin. And when those "reported" her deal was done with AGR, I did not retract anything. Note: her deal is still not done with AGR. As I said, there are a lot of things in play at this time, and weather she belongs, deserves or is qualified to run NASCAR is not the point. She is going that way, and maybe sooner rather than later.

Those who reported Favre had retired were not wrong. The situation changed. I'm sorry if you missed the last year or so regarding the autmotive industry. Feel free to catch up any time now.

I never claimed to be always right but by attending every event, I think I have a bit more knowledge those at home. And considering how often I have been correct (too many times to count) just like in this case, I think the information is a bit more credible than those who guess at home.

I have never seen such jealous bunch of "wanna be's". I have offered to meet with some at races, and I in fact have. Those who i met came away fairly impressed, and enjoyed the freebies. Others, just never show up.

If you want we can discuss this Monday morning as I'm sure you will be at the same event most of us are attending. We missed you in Motegi!

[garyshell]

I have never seen such jealous bunch of "wanna be's". I have offered to meet with some at races, and I in fact have. Those who i met came away fairly impressed, and enjoyed the freebies. Others, just never show up.

If you want we can discuss this Monday morning as I'm sure you will be at the same event most of us are attending. We missed you in Motegi!

Spare me all the self sanctimonious garbage, you have no clue where I will be on Monday or any other day for that matter.

Gary

[SarahFan]

http://www.motorsportforums.com/forums/images/icons/eek.gif

[EagleEye]

Spare me all the self sanctimonious garbage, you have no clue where I will be on Monday or any other day for that matter.

Gary

I know you will not be at the event Monday. Don't get hurt falling off your couch...

[garyshell]

If you want we can discuss this Monday morning as I'm sure you will be at the same event most of us are attending. We missed you in Motegi!


I know you will not be at the event Monday. Don't get hurt falling off your couch...

Gee, just three messages back you were so certain I'd be there. Don't break you arm patting yourself on the back...

Gary

[EagleEye]

Gee, just three messages back you were so certain I'd be there. Don't break you arm patting yourself on the back...

Gary

I was being sarcastic, as I knew you would not be there, and you certainly were not missed at Motegi. You are never near any event.

You continue to loose every arguement you pcik with me. Three cars for NHL, JW going to NHL a few years back, no phoenix, no las vegas, and on and on.

Like I have told you in the past if you got something to say come do it in person. I know that means actually going to an event, but give it a try.

[garyshell]

I was being sarcastic, as I knew you would not be there, and you certainly were not missed at Motegi. You are never near any event.

You continue to loose every arguement you pcik with me. Three cars for NHL, JW going to NHL a few years back, no phoenix, no las vegas, and on and on.

Like I have told you in the past if you got something to say come do it in person. I know that means actually going to an event, but give it a try.


Once again Nostradamus, you know much less than you think. I was at two events this past season, and I didn't to try to find you at either. As a matter of fact, I wouldn't bother to cross the street to do so. I could care less what access you might grant, or freebies you might hand out to curry favor. Your pompous, I know more than everyone else, attitude is wearing a might thin.

Gary

[beachgirl]

She has plenty of offers. She owns the "brand", and that is what people are after.

Actually she has a signed deal with IMG, and they have a financial interest in her. While the decision is hers to make, IMG pulls a lot of weight. And her "brand" is stronger than you think.

Is this why you can pick up a like-new copy of her autobiography "Crossing The Line" at amazon.com for $ .01? And there's lots of them to buy there for that price. Check it out. That's one powerful, mass-market "brand" there.

[beachbum]

A deal was done, as I was told by her father, and the car owner. Her father has since had a gag order in place, and the automotive industry went into a tailspin. And when those "reported" her deal was done with AGR, I did not retract anything. Note: her deal is still not done with AGR. As I said, there are a lot of things in play at this time, and weather she belongs, deserves or is qualified to run NASCAR is not the point. She is going that way, and maybe sooner rather than later.

Those who reported Favre had retired were not wrong. The situation changed. I'm sorry if you missed the last year or so regarding the autmotive industry. Feel free to catch up any time now.

I never claimed to be always right but by attending every event, I think I have a bit more knowledge those at home. And considering how often I have been correct (too many times to count) just like in this case, I think the information is a bit more credible than those who guess at home.

I have never seen such jealous bunch of "wanna be's". I have offered to meet with some at races, and I in fact have. Those who i met came away fairly impressed, and enjoyed the freebies. Others, just never show up.

If you want we can discuss this Monday morning as I'm sure you will be at the same event most of us are attending. We missed you in Motegi!Interesting rant. For the record, I am not a 'wanna be' but more of a 'once was'. This isn't a pi**ing war to find out who will get wetter.

I have no doubt you have your contacts, but consider this. In a negotiation, no one shows all of their cards. The rumors and proclamations may just be talk and posturing to set up a bargaining position. It would be very rare for anyone outside of the immediate circle to know exactly what is being played. It is much more common to suggest and deceive, or even say far too much, which would explain why TJ is muzzled and Danica was apparently rebuked for even talking about any contract issues. That was reported by some of the media that follows the IRL.

IHMO, IMG seems to be playing a very common business game, a sort of catch 22 of negotiation. To get a good ride, they need to bring a big sponsor. But to land the big sponsor, they have to convince them they have a good ride lined up. Without one, they can't get the other. It is a risky, but often successful play until the two sides learn how they are being played, and then it can blow up. That scenario (just speculation) could explain why no contracts have been signed and things have become publicly very quiet, even with AGR.

Again, IMHO, this is a very risky time for Danica. If she gets a ride in NASCAR and doesn't do well, her racing career could be in jeopardy or even over. If she doesn't get a ride, the value of her "brand" (such as it is) could go down precipitously, even in the IRL. Her "brand" has been built on marketing. A common quote in marketing is to sell the sizzle, not the steak. But after the sizzle is sold, someone whats to know if the steak is any good. If it isn't, all of the sizzle isn't going to get a repeat sale. At this stage in her career, she needs to prove she can back up the hype and is worthy of a repeat "sale".

You may be right, or you may be wrong. But the next few months should clear things up.

[EagleEye]

Once again Nostradamus, you know much less than you think. I was at two events this past season, and I didn't to try to find you at either. As a matter of fact, I wouldn't bother to cross the street to do so. I could care less what access you might grant, or freebies you might hand out to curry favor. Your pompous, I know more than everyone else, attitude is wearing a might thin.

Gary

Look in the mirror, and you will find a good example of pompous. You are just an outsider who gets angry when proven wrong again and agin.

As a general rule and fact, those who attend every event know more than those who don't. That is not to say I know everything as I don't and never claimed I did. If this is a fact you can not handle, just get over it.

Two events? Wow, now you are an expert!!

[EagleEye]

Is this why you can pick up a like-new copy of her autobiography "Crossing The Line" at amazon.com for $ .01? And there's lots of them to buy there for that price. Check it out. That's one powerful, mass-market "brand" there.

http://www.forbes.com/2009/06/03/forbes-100-celebrity-09-athletes_slide_19.html

This is a ranking of the most powerful celebrities. Top athlete is Tiger Woods at #5. Top Race Driver is Kimi Raikkonen at #52, then Jeff Gordon at #63. Danica is ranked #100, or the third highest ranked race car driver, in the top 25 of all athletes.

I am not sure how Kimi ranked so high, and that Dale Jr. was not on the list.

Don't shoot the messenger!

[garyshell]

Wow, now you are an expert!!


There is only one person here pretending to be that. And clearly it is not me, as I have never once claimed to be anything more than a die hard open wheel fan. I've never claimed to have any inside access or attempted to belittle anyone because they only attended two IRL races a year. Hell, I've never attempted to belittle anyone because they were unable to attend ANY races.

Gary

Edit: I had a LOT more to say that can't be said in polite company, but it seems our esteemed self proclaimed Mr. Insider refuses to accept private messages via these forums.

[EagleEye]

There is only one person here pretending to be that. And clearly it is not me, as I have never once claimed to be anything more than a die hard open wheel fan. I've never claimed to have any inside access or attempted to belittle anyone because they only attended two IRL races a year. Hell, I've never attempted to belittle anyone because they were unable to attend ANY races.

Gary

Edit: I had a LOT more to say that can't be said in polite company, but it seems our esteemed self proclaimed Mr. Insider refuses to accept private messages via these forums.

A person who is part of the series, and at every event is not "pretending". There are a couple of others who post here, who are part of the series and provide more credile information than those who argue from the couch. I'm not sure what you do for a living (I could guess, but Starter would delete it) but I'm sure you have a much better idea of what is going on with your company than I do. Does this make you a pretender because you know more about what is happening at your company than I do? If so, then I am a pretender too...at least according to your screwy dictionary.

You fight everything I post and are wrong all the time becuase you are not part of the series. You argued with me on Conquest running two cars awhile back, and you argued when I indicated Justin Wilson has signed with NHL, and you argued with me on NHL adding a 3rd car, you argued when I said the Green Prix was dead, and so on and so on. I take it you like to argue.

As for PM's I answer everything from those true fans who ask questions or want real information. And they can tell you I don't have an answer for everything. If I don't know, I tell them "I don't know". There is actually a lot of that right now.

[garyshell]

You fight everything I post and are wrong all the time because you are not part of the series. You argued with me on Conquest running two cars awhile back, and you argued when I indicated Justin Wilson has signed with NHL, and you argued with me on NHL adding a 3rd car, you argued when I said the Green Prix was dead, and so on and so on. I take it you like to argue.

Clearly you have me confused with someone else. Just to be certain, I went to the "Advanced Search" options on this forum. I did three searches. The first was with the word "garyshell" as the keyword and "EagleEye" in the user name field. It turned up nine hits. None of which were any argument between you and I about Justin, NHL or Green Prix. Next I reversed the two terms, with "EagleEye" in the keyword and "garyshell" in the user name. It turned up 12 hits. Again none about Justin, NHL, or Green Prix. Finally I did one with "Wilson" in the keyword and "EagleEye" in the user name. Again nothing at all between you and I on that subject. The search archives go back to 2007, before Justin signed with NHL.

It's odd you would think I would argue about the Green Prix being dead. I thought it was dead from the first word I heard of it. You might want to review the thread: http://www.motorsportforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=130187&highlight=green

So, I have no idea why you seem to think this is some ongoing battle between you and I. In fact it appears we have only really butted heads in this thread. I have never had an issue with the content of your posts or your information. But I very much take issue with your presentation. I had the same issue with Waldo. His content was incredible, but he treated everyone like crap that dared to disagree with him. Other choose to ignore it. I didn't, I don't suffer fools gladly.

Lets just end this. It's pointless. Henceforth, I will just do my best to ignore your condescending attitude and try to just focus purely on the information you deliver, because you DO have a much closer view than most of us here.

Gary

[SarahFan]

I take it you like to argue.

.

no.. not gary... never

[EagleEye]

Lets just end this. It's pointless. Henceforth, I will just do my best to ignore your condescending attitude and try to just focus purely on the information you deliver, because you DO have a much closer view than most of us here.

Gary

And I will ignore your continued argumentative and ignorant comments. We'd be square if your would refrain from comments like "pompous" and accusations of me having a condescending attitude. I'm not sure what we tassled with in the past, but it was something that was way off base, and had you chasing my threads, like you did here. Give peace a chance!

[garyshell]

And I will ignore your continued argumentative and ignorant comments. We'd be square if your would refrain from comments like "pompous" and accusations of me having a condescending attitude. I'm not sure what we tassled with in the past, but it was something that was way off base, and had you chasing my threads, like you did here. Give peace a chance!


Just to set the record straight, EagleEye and I have had some behind the scenes conversations about all of this AFTER these posts and it is clear to both of us I was not the person who argued with him about Justin, NHL or the GreenPrix and other issues which shall remain in the PM domain.

We have agreed to hit the reset button. I realize there was quite a bit of frustration precipitated by mistaken identity and my lack of understanding of the underlying issues surrounding that. Hell as I told EagleEye in a PM, if I had been in his shoes I would have been less gentile than he was, if I thought I was confronting who he thought he was confronting. Once we got to the bottom of that it was obvious we were able to carry on here without all the baggage.

Move on, nothing to see here.

Gary

[TURN3]

Now back to the regularly scheduled program...that being that Danica stinks and we can continue to watch her brand free fall for another 3 years at AGR. Good thing about this is there will always be something to talk about for the next 3 years, starting with the same things that have been said for the past 3 years...she stinks and AGR will continue their lapse into a mediocre to back of pack team (unless they hire a proven driver to go with TK's developement).