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closeExpansion coming soon for DEI
Sources: Ginn's No. 13 is target for acquisition
JIM UTTER
jutter@charlotteobserver.com
Monday, Jul. 09, 2007
Dale Earnhardt Inc. is not only looking to expand to a fourth Nextel Cup team but would consider purchasing an existing team this season to bolster its current three-car operation.
“We have inquired about the possibility of acquiring an existing team,” DEI vice president John Story said Monday.
Story said the move could come as early as this season and the purchase of a team already in the top 35 of car owner points would be used to shore up DEI’s No. 15 team driven by Paul Menard. Menard is 39th in owner points and has failed to qualify for six races this season.
Story declined to name the teams with which DEI has talked about the possibility of purchasing, but multiple sources Monday confirmed Ginn Racing’s No. 13 Chevrolet team driven by Joe Nemechek is DEI’s prime target.
The No. 13 is 33rd in owner points and Ginn has been involved in some financial difficulties this season. The No. 13 is also currently not fully sponsored for the season.
Officials with Ginn Racing were not immediately available for comment late Monday.
DEI officials have maintained all season their plan to field four Cup teams in 2008. They are still searching for a driver to replace Dale Earnhardt Jr. in the team’s No. 8 Chevy.
