The Buzz: Rudd to drive for Ganassi next year?

In the next few weeks, reports say that Chip Ganassi Racing will announce a third team for the 2003 NASCAR Winston Cup Series season. The driver will be Ricky Rudd and the sponsor will be Texaco/Havoline coming over in a complete package from Robert Yates Racing. No word on whether the team members will follow, or not.

	Ricky Rudd

The No. 28 itself, though owned by RYR, has become greatly associated with Havoline and they have invested millions in building brand awareness with the racing public. It's believed Havoline would like the number to be a part of the deal if Rudd goes to Ganassi with their sponsorship.

Rudd going to Ganassi would open the door for someone else to join RYR alongside the existing No. 88 Ford team of Dale Jarrett. Enter Elliott Sadler with M&M's as a possible sponsor.

That would send Silly Season into full gear and a domino effect is anticipated with drivers, crew chiefs and team members possibly making the largest number of switches in recent years. Once Sadler officially departs from the No. 21 Ford of Wood Brothers Racing at season's end, that vacancy could be filled by a number of drivers.

A few names being mentioned for the ride are Mike Wallace and Ken Schrader.