so where do things stand with news and rumors in the Sprint Cup Series? Let’s break down a few a day for the next week or so, also see my 2009 Team Chart for all the teams #6 David Ragan is signed thru 2008, he has said he is staying and Roush has said the same. The team needs a sponsor since AAA announced a year ago that they are out at the end of 2008. If McMurray leaves and the #26 goes away, Crown Royal or Irwin Tools could move over to the #6. #7 All indications are that Robby Gordon will be back in 2009 as a one car team. Rumors of Gillett’s son buying the team were denied and have heard nothing since. No word if Jim Beam, Mapai or Camping World will return as sponsors in 2009. #8 Aric Almirola takes over full-time in 2009, Mark Martin will move to Hendrick’s #5 car full time. US Army on does one year deals, no word if they will be back or head to another team such as Bill Davis Racing or Red Bull Racing as was rumored a while back. Hearing the Army is due to make their decision on sponsorship very soon. #9 Have heard of no changes for the team or driver Kasey Kahne. Even with Budweiser selling to an overseas company, Budweiser doesn’t seem to be getting out of motorsports #10 Things seem to be up in the air with this team. Patrick Carpentier is having a decent rookie year, he qualifies well, but fell behind in owners points when he missed the Daytona 500 and two races when qualifying was rained out. Carpentier expects to know his 2009 plans by August 15th. Ryan Newman has been rumored to this ride or a 4th GEM ride. The team is also looking for a full time sponsor, but has had Valvoline and some other sponsors most of the season. #11 Have heard of no changes for the team or driver Denny Hamlin.(8-2-2008) #12 Newman and Penske Racing have agreed to part ways at the end of 2009. Hearing Alltel is good as the sponsor for one more year as the merger with Verizon will not be finalized until sometime in late 2009. David Stremme is expected to be in this ride, but it has drug on a while and other drivers have surfaces as candidates, including Casey Mears, Martin Truex Jr. and Jamie McMurray. Penske could also start a 4th team. See past posts: Silly Season 2008 # 00-5 (8-2-2008)
