Join the Discussion "It is bad enough that we have 4 door family cars in NASCAR such as the Taurus and Intrepid.....now there is Toyota?" EMMPGH

Related Resources • Latest News • NASCAR Chat

NASCAR recently announced that Toyota would be entering the Craftsman Truck Series in 2004. Why are they allowed to enter the all-American series and what does it mean for the future of NASCAR?

First, some history

NASCAR rules state that the vehicles that compete in NASCAR must be based on American vehicles. Although Toyota is a foreign manufacturer, the Toyota Tundra pickup is built in Indiana so it qualifies.

Also, Toyota has been competing in NASCAR's Dash series for a while now and had been clamoring to break into NASCAR's top three touring series. Autoweek is reporting that this deal includes provisions for Toyota to race the Camry in Winston Cup in 2007.

So why the fuss?

Ford and GM have already begun voicing their concerns that Toyota's entry into the series could raise the financial stakes required to compete in NASCAR's truck series. Toyota has a history of buying in big when they decide to go racing. Their Indycar programs are some of the best funded programs in the sport and there is no reason to doubt that when they enter America's biggest racing series that they'll do it with a big dollar deal.

If Toyota backs the truck up with a $25 million truck racing package and $100 or more for their Winston Cup program that will really put the pressure on the other manufacturers to step up their involvement. Obviously if costs get out of control then that becomes bad for everyone, including NASCAR itself.

First Thoughts

If NASCAR can keep the costs under control then I absolutely welcome Toyota into NASCAR's upper ranks. Having one more manufacturer to love or hate just makes the sport that much more interesting to watch.

Do I want my favorite driver to switch to Toyota? Heck no! I do pay attention to the manufacturer battles and I am loyal to my chosen brand, but I sure will enjoy rooting for my drivers to beat them.

The more the merrier, where is Honda?