Villeneuve’s qualifying attempt is historic because he was once, in 1997, considered the best driver in the world. That’s the reason Formula One calls its best the World Driving Champion. But that was 10 years ago. Villeneuve has done precious little since. NASCAR marks a new career path.

Villeneuve qualified an impressive 6th in qualifying today. However, most of the Nextel Cup drivers clearly think he has no place in this field.

“There’s no doubt the guy’s talented,” said Jeff Green, “but I hope I’m nowhere around him. That’s not a slam on his abilities. That’s just the reality of any first-timer at Talladega. I think he’ll probably be running at the rear of the pack, regardless of where he qualifies. I don’t think anyone will help him in the draft. They’re going to hang him out to dry whenever they get the chance, just because he’s a rookie at a restrictor-plate track. It happened to all of us our first couple of times at Daytona and Talladega. The veterans see that rookie stripe and try to get as far away from you as they can.”

Nothing personal, mind you.

“I really hope he has a good, solid day, and that he gains a lot of experience and stays out of trouble,” added Green. “If I were in the Chase, I’d probably be at (NASCAR president) Mike Helton’s house right now, pleading my case as to why (Villeneuve) shouldn’t be in the race.

“I really do wish him good luck, though.”

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