It’s the economy stupid!

If you haven’t heard, Chrysler is having some major issues. (And by the way, if you haven’t heard, where the frick have you been?) They plan on shutting down all of their plants for an entire month as they continue to beg congress for a bailout. With the financial upheaval, Chrysler has announced it will cut its Nascar budget by more than 30 percent in 2009. The reduction is due in part to Ganassi’s recent merger with Dale Earnhardt, Inc., which forced them to move over to Chevy. Robby Gordon Racing is also leaving Chrysler for the greener pastures of Toyota.

But it’s not just its factory support that will be absent; they plan on lessening their sponsorships, cutting back on “at-track car displays, track sponsorships and promotions.”

However, don’t start to freak out now, Penske, Gillett Evernham Motorsports and Petty Enterprises (if it still exists by Speedweeks 2009) fans, the company does plan on continuing to field cars in Nascars three major Series. They just have to look at things more realistically. I guess this recession is making us all do that. I mean, I’ve totally cut down on my spending at Starbucks and J.Crew by at least 5% (mostly because everything is on sale.)

(source)