[WestCoastGal]

Sponsor problems at MWR? Elliott to MWR? Rumors are swirling about Toyota driver #55-Michael Waltrip’s future and his sponsorship support [NAPA], after failing to make the last six tour races. According to one unconfirmed report, Waltrip is having to return $300,000 to his sponsors for each race he misses. There is also speculation that Bill Elliott may be under consideration for a ride with the three-team operation; Elliott, 50 and only a part-time driver these days, would have six championship provisionals, guaranteeing him a spot in at least six races. However Elliott, despite the multimillion-dollar contracts being waved at him by more than one team, has been less than enthusiastic about becoming too deeply involved in the sport again.(Winston Salem Journal)(4-16-2007) Jayski

[Wolfstar]

Earnhardt Jr. finishes race in car that wrecked him
SCENEDAILY - 8:51PM ET SUNDAY APRIL 15, 2007

Dale Earnhardt Jr.'s car suffered heavy damage in a crash on lap 252 of the Samsung 500 when he was rammed from behind by an apparently blinded Kyle Busch.

But when Busch left the track after a "miscommunication" with his Hendrick Motorsports team, guess who drove Busch's car to the finish?

Yes, Earnhardt Jr.

"I appreciate them asking me," said Earnhardt Jr., who helped Busch pick up one spot - and three points - in the race results. "That was an honor."

Photo is the 5 car finishing the race with Junior driving.

The connection between Junior and HMS seems to be getting stronger. Maybe this is just a way to strengthen Junior's hand in his negotiations, because I'm sure a lot of people in the sport would like to see him take over the company his father built.

[Wolfstar]

According to one unconfirmed report, Waltrip is having to return $300,000 to his sponsors for each race he misses.

Huge OUCH!