Automaker continuing strong ties to NASCAR
BROOKLYN -- The NASCAR Sprint Cup Series has returned to Michigan International Speedway this weekend for the Lifelock 400.
Friday, General Motors announced that the bankrupt automaker will drastically reduce its funding for NASCAR, news that was tough to digest for Chevrolet driver and three-time defending champion Jimmie Johnson.
"I'm just not sure what the cutbacks mean for the sport. Its obviously a tough time for GM, a tough time for our country. The one thing I do know is that racing sells cars. Hopefully we can continue to do that for Chevrolet and GM and go out and win on Sundays and sell on Monday," said Johnson, who qualified third for Sunday's race.
Tensions are not nearly as high for Ford drivers like Matt Kenseth.
"I don't think anything has changed in (Ford's) commitment to NASCAR. Its always been strong and they've always said the very last thing they would ever cut is the NASCAR funding because they realize how important it is to their brand, their success and selling vehicles," said Kenseth.
In Dearborn, Kenseth's crew chief Drew Blickensderfer will spend Sunday night at the national finals of the Ford/AAA Auto Skills competition.
The annual event rewards high school students for pursuing a careers in the automotive industry.
"The technician part of the automotive industry is still booming. It tells high school students and people out there that this industry is still going strong even though the car manufacturers are in a bit of a downturn right now," said Blickensderfer.
