CART champion Paul Tracy said he would love to drive on the Winston Cup circuit, but he doesn’t think his chance will come next year. Richard Childress hopes it does, but said he would “cross that bridge when we come to it.” As far as Tracy knows, he said, CART’s proposed buyout by Open Wheel Racing will be completed in time to save the series, and he plans to honor his contract with Forsythe Racing through its final year in 2004 if it does. Team owner Gerald Forsythe is one of the main investors in Open Wheel Racing. “I feel like there will be a series next year from what I’m hearing from my boss,” said Tracy, attending his first NASCAR races this weekend on a Ford champions tour. “There’s a schedule out and it looks good.” Tracy’s presence in the garage area piqued curiousity that he and other Champ Car drivers might be looking for employment since CART announced it would run out of money and cease operations if the deal was not completed in mid December. As one of the most successful and recognized drivers in the world, Tracy would not have to make contingency plans as much as peruse offers. He doesn’t think converting to stock cars would be difficult. Childress said he would like to sign Tracy for his team. “There’s a good chance of it,” Childress said. “We spoke (Saturday). I’d like to see how he does in one. The first thing we have to do is set up a chance.” Childress said no plans have been made for a test in one of his Chevrolets. Tracy would seemingly be the perfect Winston Cup fit for an owner who enjoys feisty competitors such as current drivers Kevin Harvick and Robby Gordon. “I think he’s the perfect combination,” Childress said. “He’s a great driver and a great personality.”( St Petersburg Times )(11-16-2003)
