Patrick Carpentier To Drive #10

Posted by Jeremy Dunn Oct 10, 2007

Following the latest fashionable trend of hiring open wheel drivers, Gillett Evernham Motorsports is expected to announce the hiring of Patrick Carpentier to drive the #10 Valvoline Dodge Avengers in 2008. Carpentier, the former IndyCar Series and Champ Car driver, joins Juan Pablo Montoya, Jacques Villeneuve, and Dario Franchitti as international open wheel to stock car converters.

"I guess the news leaked a little early. Patrick will be available for a statement." Carpentier's PR reprenstative said Wednesday all but confirming the report.

Carpentier won the pole and finished second in the Busch Series event at Montreal. A week later at Watkins Glen, Carpentier faced much stiffer competition in theNextel Cup Series race as he scored a 22nd place finish. How has he faired on ovals?

David Stremme was also on the list of possibilities of replacing Scott Riggs.

The logic behind the latest hiring of open wheel veterans is somewhat baffling considering that none have adequate experience in stock cars. These guys are being hired by virtue of their open wheel credentials as well as the limitless sponsorship possibilities. Meanwhile, more experienced stock car drivers are left scrambling for a ride in the form of auto racing that they grew up watching. Why not hire Boris Said? How about up and coming talent such as Stephen Leicht or Brad Coleman?

David Stremme, as well as Jeremy Mayfield, are candidates to join Scott Riggs at Haas CNC Racing.

NASCAR upheld the 25 point penalty assessed to Carl Edwards and the 99 Roush Fenway Racing team.

Reed Sorenson and his owner Chip Ganassi have been penalized 25 points driver and owner points for a rules infraction at Talladega following their 10th place finish.

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