Carpentier signs with GEM

Former IndyCar Series and Champ Car driver Patrick Carpentier, a native of Canada, will drive for Gillett Evernham Motorsports next season

"I guess the news leaked a little early," said Max d'Orsonnens, a public relations representative for Carpentier.

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A "little early" may be one way to describe it. As of midday Wednesday, the "leak" was news to Ray Evernham, who earlier this season forged a partnership of his racing organization with businessman George N. Gillett Jr.

"No one has told me that Patrick Carpentier is the official driver of the No. 10 car next season," Evernham said. "Until George Gillett tells me that ... I have not signed a contract or any contract as of yet."

However, shortly after 6 p.m. ET the team made it official:

"Gillett Evernham Motorsports announced today that they have added Patrick Carpentier to their driver lineup for 2008," read a press release. "The Quebec native and former open wheel stand out will drive fulltime in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series next year as well as select races in the NASCAR Nationwide Series. The car number and sponsorship have not yet been announced."

Carpentier made a splash earlier this season when he debuted in the Busch Series' first-ever event in Montreal. He won the pole and finished second.

He made his Cup debut Aug. 12 at The Glen, driving the No. 10 in place of current driver Scott Riggs, and finished 22nd.

Carpentier is the latest international name to join the stock-car ranks. Last weekend at the Talladega Superspeedway, Jacques Villeneuve, also a Canadian, made his Cup debut, while Dario Franchitti of Scotland made his ARCA debut. Both have full-time Cup rides next season.

In the release, Gillett said, "We are excited to add Patrick Carpentier to our organization for 2008. Patrick has shown tremendous talent in every series he has driven throughout his career and has a bright future in NASCAR.

"We are committed to giving Patrick the best resources and opportunities available to make this transition and we look forward to a great deal of success together both on and off the track."

Carpentier apparently will replace Riggs, who last week signed with Haas CNC for the 2008 season.

News of Carpentier's agreement with GEM sends driver David Stremme back to pound the pavement some more.

Stremme, who currently drives for Chip Ganassi Racing, is being replaced by Franchitti. Stremme was on the short list of drivers to pilot the No. 10 car.

Jeff Dickerson, Stremme's agent said, "[GEM] made their decision and I wish them nothing but luck trying to get Patrick up to speed. We are excited about the possibilities that lay ahead for David." (Continued)