Michael Waltrip and Dale Earnhardt Jr. might not be teammates in 2006. Credit: Autostock

Smith: DEI facing fundamental decisions

Tuesday afternoon, I was this close to telling the world that Michael Waltrip's tenure at Dale Earnhardt, Inc. was nearing completion. This close.

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Sources close to Waltrip sent word Monday that DEI served notice that Waltrip's contract to drive the No. 15 Chevrolets would not be renewed in 2006 -- even if he managed to qualify for this season's Chase for the Nextel Cup.

It had been speculated all season that Waltrip's renewal barometer was just that: Make the Chase or pack your bags.

He's having a career season, so cutting the cord halfway through seems premature.

Intrigued, I dialed Waltrip's personal publicist. I expected to be laughed at. I wasn't.

"I know he is very happy with his team, and I know that NAPA is very happy with him," Brooke Hondros, Michael Waltrip Racing publicist, said of the boss. "Other than that, we can't control what happens."

Hmm. Her tone of voice was not promising, so I followed up with DEI competition director Richie Gilmore. He adamantly refuted the speculation, essentially scoffing at the notion that Waltrip was on his way out.

"There is no truth to that," Gilmore said. "We're still talking to Michael. Matter of fact I was on the phone with Michael at 11:59 (Tuesday) and we were talking options and what we want to do.

Michael Waltrip

"We're still trying to put together a long-term deal with NAPA and finish up our deal with Martin (Truex), and put three cars out there. But as far as Michael leaving, that's absolutely not true."

Fielding three racecars under one cohesive mantra should be DEI's primary focus if they're to return to consistent competitiveness. To do that, the team needs to sign Waltrip and Truex.

Two cars aren't enough these days. Robert Yates Racing is the perfect example. Elliott Sadler and Dale Jarrett openly share information, but all said they fall victim to sheer numbers. Over an entire season, how can a team with two cars and 10 total tests compete with a five-car team carrying more than 25 tests at their disposal?

They can't. That's why Yates is looking at the possibility of adding a third Cup team.

DEI needs three teams working as one. It's easier said than done, sure, but in the aftermath of Tony Eury Sr.'s outburst at Charlotte, communication continues to steadily improve and pride takes a lesser role with each passing day.

Waltrip has proven he can compete this season, given a good pit crew and a good racecar. And above all else he brings significant financial backing to the table.

If he were to leave, it stands to reason NAPA would contemplate following him to a new destination. I'm not naïve. NAPA loves the association with Dale Jr., too. That's made obvious by their marketing strategy. But Waltrip is their brand.

Same goes for Domino's. Same goes for Best Western.

My sources won't divulge specifics regarding 2006, but did confirm that Waltrip is reviewing options with other teams. With the kind of sponsorship influence he carries, folks are interested.

Same goes for Truex. He's the next big thing, and by all means should already be signed at DEI. He isn't. Several team owners are making a push to woo him away, namely Penske Racing and the coveted No. 2 Dodge Charger according to garage scuttlebutt.

DEI disasterDale Earnhardt Jr. spins Michael Waltrip setting off a chain reaction on Lap 246 of the Coca Cola 600. Sign up for TrackPass now BUY YOUR NEXTEL DRIVER PHONE

The sources that made me privy to this information aren't the type to blow smoke for the sake of sensationalism. They've never steered me wrong before, so I believe what they say.

DEI has some fundamental decisions to make. Dale Earnhardt Jr. not only needs a crew chief, but has commented recently that he's open to the possibility of moving to Richard Childress Racing and driving his Daddy's legendary No. 3.

Waltrip and Truex need contracts. Sources tell me Tony Eury Jr. needs a contract, too.

These are some of NASCAR's most popular personalities.

If DEI isn't careful, I fear they may lose them all.

The opinions listed here are solely those of the writer.