2005 Rookie Class

As we know how rumors abound within the NASCAR community, it has been rumored that Shane Hmiel may also be a Cup Series rookie contender this season. Jayski.com has Hmiel listed as a possibility in the Bill Davis Racing's #23 Dodge. It appears that the crux of the situation will depend on whether Bill Davis Racing can obtain sponsorship for the entry. Hmiel has been marked with substance abuse problems after having been suspended by NASCAR from his Busch Series ride near the end of the 2003 season. Even though he successfully completed a NASCAR sanctioned rehabilitation program, he will always carry the stigma of the previous infraction throughout his racing career. Unfortunately, it remains to be seen if a corporate sponsor will allot millions of dollars of its advertising budget to a team with Hmiel in the driver's seat. Personally, I hope it works out for the young driver; he's paid his dues and deserves the opportunity to compete.

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