The future of AT&T’s involvement in NASCAR remains in question, although it appears #49 BAM Racing has lost most hope in securing the company as a primary sponsor for its Dodges and driver Ken Schrader [who is NOT retiring]. NASCAR chief operating officer George Pyne confirmed Friday that NASCAR made the decision not to allow an expansion of AT&T’s sponsorship of BAM Racing in light of the sanctioning body’s new 10-year deal with Nextel Communications to sponsor what is now the Winston Cup series beginning in 2004. AT&T’s 1-800-CALL-ATT division, which has served as a primary sponsor on BAM’s #49 in several races this season, was among the sponsors that would be allowed to continue in the sport under a “grandfather clause,” Pyne said. However, NASCAR drew the line on any expansion of AT&T’s involvement, particularly the use of any logos that would promote AT&T Wireless, a direct competitor of Nextel. “It is part of our responsibility to look out for the interests for our teams and our sponsors,” Pyne said. Audrey Schaefer, director of corporate communications for Nextel, said NASCAR was the “final arbiter” for all sponsor decisions. She said Nextel had no objection to AT&T’s continued involvement in the sport so long as it fell within the confines of Nextel’s agreement with NASCAR. The use of AT&T’s trademark “globe” logo has been the sticking point on most of the discussions involving the possible full-time sponsorship of BAM’s team. NASCAR has also had AT&T as an “official sponsor,” but that agreement concludes at the end of the season, Pyne said.( ThatsRacin.com )(7-18-2003)
