tool name
closeFrye notes interest in switch; Allmendinger's status unclear
JIM UTTER
The Charlotte Observer
Sunday, Sep. 07, 2008
RICHMOND, Va. - Red Bull Racing general manager Jay Frye did not deny on Sunday that he has received an offer to take a similar position with Stewart-Haas Racing.
Although Frye said he was "happy where I'm at," he did not rule out the possibility he would take the position.
"Obviously, there is a lot going on in the sport right now, there are a lot of flattering things being said and a lot to think about, but I'm very happy where I'm at," Frye said Sunday at Richmond International Raceway.
Frye recently returned from a visit to Red Bull's headquarters in Austria, where he had several meetings regarding the organization's future in NASCAR, including the possibility of adding a third team in 2009 or dropping one of its current drivers.
"We're doing some great things, I think. The NASCAR program is very important to their business," Frye said. "It was more, as a company, I wanted to understand where we're at, what's in store for the future.
"We've made good progress. It was a very positive meeting. No matter what happens, it is great to have Red Bull part of this sport. They are a great sponsor. They are a great owner."
Frye said one of the scenarios being discussed includes current driver A.J. Allmendinger not returning to the team's No. 84 Toyota next season. Allmendinger struggled early in the season, but has recently raced his way back into the top 35 in car owner points, assuring himself a spot in the field each week.
"A.J. has been a Red Bull athlete for a long time. They are very fond of A.J. We are going through these different scenarios right now and should know something shortly," Frye said. "We have three really good, young drivers and it's about managing them and doing what's best for them and what's best for the company in the long haul."
In addition, Frye said Red Bull Racing development driver Scott Speed, who is currently competing full time in the Automobile Racing Club of America series, will test a Cup car at Lowe's Motor Speedway. If the test goes well, will enter the track's October Cup race."