STP/#43 Stuff UPDATE 2: There are rumors abound that STP will do one of the following: 1) STP Stays as primary; 2) STP drops down to an associate sponsor; 3) STP leaves the team(most unlikely). One rumor has UPS becoming a primary or associate sponsor. A few fans have emailed STP and gotten the following response: “As you know “Clorox” has purchased STP. During the sale discussions it was NEVER mentioned that STP would discontinue their relationship with Richard Petty. From a business standpoint I’m sure we agree its a win win situation for both parties. This rumor regarding a partial sponsorship has never been implied nor told to my office. Unless told otherwise I can assume nothing. Thank you for your time and patience as well as your interest in #43.”(11-3-98) — “A spokesman for STP said rumors the product won’t return as a sponosr of Petty Enterprises weren’t true. He said STP would be on the #43 next year”(Winston Cup Scene), what he didn’t say was in what capacity, primary or an associate sponsor. Also the WC Scene reports that Dale Inman, Team Manager will not return to Retty Enterprises for the 1999 season. Inman, Richard Pettys cousin has been fulltime with the team since 1962(with the exception 1984 when he was part of Terry Labontes 1st championship with Billy Hagen). Other notes on the team: Mike Suter was Kyle Petty’s crew chief Atlanta, Bobby Kennedy left after Rockingham. Doug Hewitt comes aboard for the 1999 season(as previosuly announced).(11-14-98) — After talking to UPS concerning sponsorship of the #43, Richard Petty has signed STP to a one year deal as the primary sponsor with Petty having a two-year option(Winston Cup Today Radio) I am hearing that UPS is looking to sponsor a Cup team in 1999, no word on who they are looking at.(11-16-98) (11-16-1998)
