Although the locations of the races on the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series 2008 schedule should not change, there will likely be some significant movement of race dates, The Charlotte Observer has learned. Officials at NASCAR and Dover (Del.) International Speedway have been discussing the possibility of moving Dover’s first Cup weekend from early June to early April, multiple sources confirmed on Saturday.

Such a move would accomplish two important changes:

For one, the off-weekend early in the season, currently slotted between the second and third races, would be eliminated. Secondly, an off-weekend would instead be inserted following the Memorial Day weekend Coca-Cola 600, giving most race team members three consecutive weekends near home. The move would also provide a plus for Fox Sports, which broadcasts the first half of the Cup season each year. The Dover date change would allow Fox to conclude its Cup schedule with one of the series’ marquis events — the Coca-Cola 600.

Fox officials have also privately long held out hope the early-season off-weekend could be eliminated, sources said. Another consequence would be the movement of several early season races - which could include Las Vegas and first Atlanta and Bristol, Tenn., races - up one weekend in the Cup schedule. As is usual practice, NASCAR declined to comment on any scheduling issues until the entire schedule is released, probably later this summer. Dover International Speedway officials could not be immediately reached for comment.

Thatsracin.com

Bookmark to: