It sounds like Danica Patrick is close to announcing a 2018 ride
Danica Patrick announced her retirement from full-time racing back in November 2017. However, she’s not done.
Her plans are to run two big races. Those races are the Daytona 500 and the Indy 500.
INDYCAR CEO Mark Miles stated that his organization has been helping in the search for an open wheel ride. Miles stated he’s been in contact with Alan Zucker, Danica’s agent.
“I have had a number of conversations with Alan and we are trying to play a helpful role in introducing them to teams and just opening doors,” INDYCAR President Mark Miles told the Sports Business Journal last week.
“We think that it would be terrific if in fact she can work out arrangements for a ride. We’d love to have her in the 102nd 500.”
Adam Stern stated that his sources have said Danica Patrick is close to announcing a deal. It’s not uncommon for Stern to be days ahead of official announcements.
In early January Danica Patrick spoke on the current marketing model of nascar. She stated on the Power Lunch via CNBC the sport was “somewhat old-fashioned in its advertising platforms.”
“Snickers on the car is great and all. But, if you don’t advertise on top of that, it just doesn’t work.”
Patrick was stating that a logo isn’t enough. She insisted that in order for the marketing dollar to be beneficial, companies have to be active at the track. That means hiring people to tour with the series and represent your brands.
Following the 2017 season, Aspen Dental has announced they will not return to NASCAR. Aspen shared the role of primary sponsor for Danica Patrick during the course of her final full-time season.
The Daytona 500 is set for February 18th. As a former Daytona 500 pole winner, Patrick is eligible for the 2018 Clash at Daytona. The Clash is set for February 11th, 2018.
MORE
Related: Chip Ganassi Racing president comments on Patrick talks (January 2018)
Related: Danica Patrick is still seeking 2018 rides (January 2018)
Related: Danica Patrick breaks into tears announcing her retirement (video)
Related: Tony Stewart’s statement on Danica Patrick departure
Related: Danica Patrick will not return to Stewart-Haas Racing
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