Image details: Bridgestone Indy 300 served by picapp.com

Several rumors have been floating around the internet this week ever since the Los Angeles Times printed an article that two-time winner of the Indy 500 and the recent subject of Dancing With the Stars, Helio Castroneves, stated this past Monday that he had indeed thought about one day trying his hand at the realm of the stock car world, and that he and car owner, Roger Penske, would talk after this weekend’s Indianapolis 500.

On Wednesday, Castroneves refuted the allegations, claiming that the LA Times took his comments out of context, and that even if he were to ever one day make the jump over to NASCAR, that day wouldn’t be today … or tomorrow … or any day on the 2009 calendar.

“Every driver is thinking about NASCAR or new challenges, let’s put it this way. But, it depends on the opportunity, and my opportunity right now is great being here in IndyCar, especially with the merger.” He later added, “The future, I don’t know what’s going to happen. But, right now, the only thing I can say is I’m very much committed to my team. I love where I’m at, and hopefully we can continue.”

When asked about his comments that he and Roger Penske would talk after Indy, Helio responded, “That’s the way we always do it with this team. It doesn’t mean I’m going to go anywhere.”

I think it be great to see Castroneves competing in NASCAR one day, but at the same time, I don’t really see a need to push the envelope and rushing things. NASCAR isn’t exactly hurting for a lack of former open wheel stars these days.

Post from: EveryJoe

Castroneves Not NASCAR-Bound Quite Yet

Danica is certainly no stranger to the history books since the 26-year-old made her debut to professional racing back in 2005. That year she became the first female driver to lead a lap in the Indy 500 en route to her fourth place finish in that race, and last year she finished 7th overall in the points standings.

When asked about being the first female to win a race in the IndyCar Racing League, Danica said, “I’m glad it finally happened, but I would be lying if I told you I didn’t think it would be me.” She also stated that the best part about the victory was that she would no longer have to answer questions about when she would win her first race.

In Other News:
- Former Indy 500 winner and current NASCAR Sprint Cup Series rookie, Sam Hornish Jr, has recently squashed rumors that he may be replaced by David Stremme at Lowe’s Motor Speedway in May so that he can run in the 2008 Indy 500. Last Friday, Hornish said that it’s just not feasible for him to drive in both the Indy 500 and the Coca Cola 600 in the same weekend, and he reiterated his commitment to piloting the no. 77 car for Penske Racing and attempting to make his rookie season in NASCAR a success.

Post from: EveryJoe

Danica Breaks the Barriers