According to multiple sources, a deal is in the works for George Gillett, majority owner of Gillett Evernham Motorsports, to buy out Bill Davis’ Sprint Cup operation “ including the #22 team, the Toyota affiliation, Triad Racing Development and their engine shop. While Gillett could not be reached for confirmation, Gillett Evernham Motorsports Vice President and Managing Director of Competition Mark McArdle told FOXSports.com on Sunday that GEM was searching for a fourth car with a spot inside the top 35 in the owners standings. McArdle would not elaborate on which team or any possible terms, but Bill Davis has made it no secret in the garage that he is open to offers. “We’re looking forward to having a fourth car next year to help us with our current business plans,” said McArdle. “That’s where we stand. To get a sponsor, they want to know that you’re going to be there to race on Sunday.” Although a deal has not yet been finalized, sources say Toyota has approved the plan. Davis will continue to field a Craftsman Truck Series team and add a Nationwide Series program to his High Point, N.C., operation. Davis, who was attending the debut NHRA event at zMax Dragway in Concord, N.C., could not be reached for comment. Sources in the garage said that Davis’ current Cup driver, Dave Blaney, inquired last week about rides for next season.(FoxSports)(9-15-2008) UPDATE: from a Dodge Motorsports PR: Q: IN SPITE OF RECENT PUBLISHED REPORTS, CAN YOU PROVIDE AN UPDATE ON DODGE’S DIRECTION IN MOTORSPORTS – IN PARTICULAR NASCAR AND GILLETT EVERNHAM MOTORSPORTS? Mike Delahanty, Sr. Manager – Dodge Motorsports: I just want to respond to these recent reports regarding Gillett Evernham Motorsports – specifically regarding Bill Davis Racing and speculation that GEM would leave Dodge. It’s nothing but pure speculation. Dodge and Gillett Evernham have a long history that dates to our return to Sprint Cup racing (2001). Dodge and GEM have a long-term contract in place. We plan to continue as partners in NASCAR. We’re aware and have had discussion about GEM’s interest in adding a fourth car, but there’s never been discussion about running anything but a Dodge. Anything beyond that, we classify as pure speculation. We’re pleased to see the turnabout in the competition side at GEM and absolutely look forward to many more Victory Lane celebrations together.” Q: WHAT ABOUT DODGE’S COMMITMENT TO MOTORSPORTS”¦HAS IT CHANGED? MD: I don’t know how many times we have to keep saying it, but we are committed”¦.we have long-term contracts in place”¦not only with Gillett Evernham, but with Penske Racing”¦with Petty (Enterprises) and with Chip Ganassi Racing. We’re committed to the sport. We’re committed to these guys”¦I don’t know how many times we have to repeat it.(Dodge Motorsports PR)(9-17-2008)
