Oct 5, 2006

Mark Martin To Chevrolet in 2007?

Mark Martin becomes yet another long-time Ford ambassador to switch manufacturers. Earlier in the season, Dale Jarrett, who has driven a Ford since 1995, announced that he will drive Toyota Camry's for Michael Waltrip Racing in 2007.

A few months later, Elliott Sadler, who has driven Fords since 1999, bolted Robert Yates Racing for the Dodge's of Evernham Motorsports.

And now, Mark Martin, a Ford emissary since 1988, is expected to drive 20-25 races for MB2 Motorsports, which fields Chevrolet's. Rookie Regan Smith will drive the remaining races.

It is reported the Martin will drive the 01 car, Joe Nemechek's current ride. I am assuming that Nemechek has not been fired, but will drive another MB2 Motorsports car.

And judging by the faithful Ford devotees reaction to Dale Jarrett's move to Toyota, the reaction, or fall-out, from Martin's decision will intriguing. General Motors has been Ford's biggest adversary for decades.

Martin has been one of NASCAR's most popular drivers for a while now, how will this impact his immense fanbase?

An official announcement is supposedly scheduled for 10:30am on Friday at Talladega.

I don't think anyone saw this silly season move coming.