Toyota News – lots of money: Toyota’s NASCAR plans have been a hot topic ever since the Japanese car maker announced that it wanted to join the Truck tour, probably in 2004. Who might get the Truck deal is unclear. But there is a heck of a lot of money involved – $100 million, according to one source. Toyota’s Indy-car deals have been high-dollar deals. Cal Wells’ Toyota Indy program was reported to be a $25 million package, and Chip Ganassi’s Indy program was reported to be a $40 million package. “When the Japanese go racing,” Ford’s Jack Roush said, “it’s like going to war.”(Winston Salem Journal)(10-26-2002) UPDATE: According to industry sources the new kids on the block, Toyota, are trolling the garage looking for help with their start-up NASCAR motor program. What are they using for bait? A $25 million, three-year contract. The plan calls for a Craftsman Truck entry in 2004 and a Cup car ready for the 2005 or 06 season.(Ford Racing)(10-27-2002)
