Ray Evernham helped lead Dodge back into the Cup Series. Credit: Autostock

Dodge stands behind Evernham in legal battle

Manufacturer says marketing potential in Sadler very promising

BROOKLYN, Mich. -- Allegations made by Nextel Cup driver Jeremy Mayfield regarding former team owner Ray Evernham and developmental driver Erin Crocker have not hurt Evernham's relationship with Dodge, officials said on Sunday.

Jeremy Mayfield already has another ride lined up for next season. Credit: Autostock

MAYFIELD OUT OF 19 Jeremy Mayfield said in court documents that Ray Evernham's 'personal relationship' with an EMS driver got in the way.  •   Complete story, click here •   Other side: Mayfield knew 'writing was on the wall' •   Chicago: Mayfield frustrated by Evernham's absence •   Chicago: Evernham taken aback by Mayfield's comments •   Watkins Glen: Mayfield gets release from Evernham •   Sadler: Communication will make difference, owner says First impressionElliott Sadler has a strong debut with Evernham Sign up for TrackPass now BUY THE NEXTEL i836

Mayfield, in a legal battle with Evernham after he was fired from the No. 19 Evernham Motorsports Dodge two weeks ago, claimed Evernham's "close personal relationship" with Crocker led to the downfall of his team and ultimate dismissal.

Michael J. Accavitti, the director of product planning and marketing for Dodge, said on Sunday that Dodge remained firmly behind Evernham.

"I'd like to think that most reasonable people understand those are just allegations," Accavitti said. "They are words spoken out of frustration. It's like having friends that are divorced. You like them both. You hate to see it, but you've got to make a choice.

"Ray's our partner. It hasn't affected our backing or belief in Ray Evernham. He's doing some great things. Going out and getting Elliott Sadler was a great move."

Sadler, who was signed earlier this week to replace Mayfield, qualified second for Sunday's race at Michigan International Speedway. Accavitti is excited about the possibilities with Sadler from both a competitive and marketing angle.

"We had a good thing with Jeremy," he said. "Jeremy is very likeable. He's got a good personality. The good news is Elliott is very likeable with a great personality. From a marketing perspective we'll get more out of Elliott.

"That No. 19 team needed something good to happen. Now they have Elliott, who I think is really going to make that team go."

Accavitti presented Sadler with a new black Dodge Ram truck with a Viper engine before the race.

"I've been racing eight years and this is by far the biggest gift I ever got," Sadler said.

Accavitti said the signing of Sadler is another step in Dodge, which already has a strong marketing plan with Kasey Kahne, becoming the "cool brand" in auto racing.

He looks forward to getting Juan Pablo Montoya, who two months ago signed with Chip Ganassi Racing with Felix Sabates, on the track. He said negotiations continue with McLaren to free the Formula One driver for testing and competition.

"It looks like the earliest will be in October, but we're trying to move that up," Accavitti said.

Accavitti added that Dodge is committed to remain a part of the Nextel Cup Series amidst speculation one of the large manufacturers might leave.

"We are here to stay," he said.