Richard Petty Motorsports (RPM) is still planning on making a deal with Ford. Although previous reports indicated that an announcement would have been made this week, it seems that the contract is still being negotiated. Unfortunately, it is not clear if both Marcos Ambrose and Aric Almirola will stay with RPM next year.
Richard Petty Still Wants a Deal with Ford
The rumors surrounding Dodge's potential return to NASCAR have not stopped despite the car manufacturer's insistence that the company will not be back for the 2013 season. RPM was allegedly pursuing a deal with Dodge before the company decided to leave NASCAR. Now, the focus has shifted back to Ford. Richard Petty has mentioned that he plans to return next year, "We've always been here, so we're going to be here."
RPM's contract with Ford has not been completed, and Petty has blamed Penske Racing's move to Ford next season for the delay. There were rumors that Richard Petty Motorsports would announce a deal with the car manufacturer after Labor Day, but it seems that the reports may have been premature. Neither side has confirmed a media conference date.
Staying in the Sprint Cup Series
Despite the difficulties, Richard Petty plans to stay in the Sprint Cup Series in 2013. However, all of the team's drivers may not be returning. Marcos Ambrose's win at the Finger Lakes 355 in Aug. 2012 may have helped secure a spot on the team for next year. However, Aric Almirola could be cut from Richard Petty Motorsports. His contract will have to be renewed at the end of the season, and Petty's financial problems may force him to limit the size of the team.
It has been rumored that Kurt Busch has talked with Richard Petty Motorsports about the 2013 NASCAR season. Busch is allegedly exploring his options beyond Phoenix Racing and wants a better ride. He has also been linked to a potential deal with Furniture Row Racing as a replacement for Regan Smith. Neither team has provided any details on possible deals. It seems that Richard Petty is more focused on securing a final contract with Ford.
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Growing up in Indiana, Lana developed a love for motorsports at an early age. She follows NASCAR, IndyCar and Formula One. Follow @Lana_Bandoim on Twitter.
