Sources close to the situation are reporting that Dale Earnhardt, Inc. will make an announcement regarding their driver and sponsorships for the 2009 season.
It's expected the team will announce that Aric Almirola will take over the No. 8 Chevy he currently shares with Mark Martin. Martin is expected to announce later this week that he will be leaving DEI to go to Hendrick Motorsports full-time next year.
An announcement is also expected regarding ARMY, the team's current sponsor. Rumors have held that ARMY would be leaving DEI to go to the second Bill Davis Racing team.
However, Almirola, a 24-year-old native of Tampa, Florida, represents the exact demographic that ARMY is currently trying to reach. Several other sponsors are also allegedly interested in the young driver.
Keep your ears open for an announcement.
3 comments Last one added about 1 year ago — Leave a Comment
S M Napier about 1 year ago
Glad to see, DEI give Aric a shot. If I read it right. That rest of year, he's in the 8 car and not sharing ride with Mark anymore. Obiviously, building team for the '09 season and like decision.
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Patti Rodisch about 1 year ago
I am not so sure going to HMS is the best move for Mark Martin and if you think that Mr. Hendrick has not been in contact with smoke about piloting the 5 car. I think with Smoke showing some interest in HMS engines, and then leaving the possibility of talks with Mr. Hendrick open I don't think HMS will announce Mark martin as soon as DEI announces Aric's ride. But for Aric this is his shot, so I could see them pulling Martin to give Aric seat time. Silly season starts earlier and earlier...
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Christopher Leone about 1 year ago
Guess I was wrong about the Army to Bill Davis rumors. I could've sworn they were going for Michael Annett in 2010... we'll see next year.
Maybe the added funding that might come with Almirola will bring the team up to the front of the field once again...
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