The search for a new title sponsor for the Winston Cup Series continues with the sanctioning body looking at companies who have previously lacked an affiliation with the sport and lack baggage. There are hints that Microsoft is a primary target, as is an as yet unnamed insurance company, with 2005 being the likely year for the introduction of a new sponsor. One thing you can bet on, the title Winston Cup Series will go away, despite the fact NASCAR owns the rights to the term Winston Cup.( AutoRacing1.com – need subscription to read/Stan Creekmore, NASCAR Editor)(3-15-2003) UPDATE: Rumors of interest by Microsoft as a potential new series sponsor for the Winston Cup Series appear to be wishful thinking, or so say marketing types involved in the sports marketing business. Microsofts experience with NASCAR dates back to 2001s Ultimate TV program. That program featured a handful of drivers, at-track displays and fan programs in support of a device that allowed the viewer to select television programs on-demand. According to industry sources, Microsoft was not satisfied with the results of that program, and may not be ready to launch new marketing initiatives in the sport.( Ford Racing )(3-20-2003)
