Brian Vickers is still looking for his first Nextel Cup Series victory.

Brian Vickers Mailbag: Changing times

Brian Vickers heads to New Hampshire International Speedway this weekend. Vickers won the Bud Pole for this race last season before finishing 11th. He led laps in both races held there this season.

	Brian Vickers is 22nd in the points heading to Michigan. Credit: Autostock
	VICKERS MAILBAG Brian Vickers will answer fans' questions each week on NASCAR.COM.  •   To post a question, click here

Q: What are your thoughts on Juan Pablo Montoya joining NASCAR? -- Several users

Vickers: I think it's awesome. Having a Formula One driver with his credentials join NASCAR says a lot for our sport and it will further help to solidify NASCAR at the international level, especially in places like Latin America.

Q: How would you change the Chase? -- Heather, Parts Unknown

Vickers: I think the Chase for the Nextel Cup has been a good thing for our sport. Obviously, the format has generated excitement for the points race, which is a good thing. Without knowing what changes are going to be made, I think there could be some minor tweaks.

First, I think more of an emphasis could be placed on winning a race in the form of more points. I also think there should be more of a points separation from first to 10th place in the Chase.

It's great that the 10th-place driver has the opportunity to win the championship, but I don't think it should be as easy. I'd like to see more of a cushion between the 10 drivers. If you qualify 10th in the Chase, you should have to gain a lot more points than just the 50 that separates first from 10th when the tallies are reset for the final 10 races.

Q: Where do you think NASCAR should build their next track? -- Several users

Vickers: Without a doubt, I'd say New York and ideally, as close to Manhattan as possible. The site chosen on Staten Island is a good choice, but I just hope things continue to move in a positive direction and the opportunity to race in NYC comes to fruition in the very near future.

Q: What song on your iPod would surprise us? -- Todd, Martinsville, Va.

Vickers: There's not a song that comes to mind, but in terms of an artist or group that may be a surprise people?how about Frank Sinatra. I have several of his songs on my iPod.

Q: What is your favorite restaurant? -- Mike, Saratoga Springs, N.Y.

Vickers: I'd have to say it's Butter in New York located on Lafayette St. The menu is American fare and I highly recommend it.