Chrysler

[Gary Smith]

Richie Stevens Quote From NHRA.com...

Citing a 30-percent cutback in Mopar's entire racing budget that has trickled down to his multi-car racing operation, Schumacher called Stevens last Friday and informed him that he wouldn't be fielding his J&J Racing-powered Dodge Stratus R/T in 2008 unless another sponsor shows up to fill the void. Earlier this season, Stevens was informed by longtime associate sponsor Valspar that they too were eliminating its sponsorship.

Guess this shouldn't come as a surprise. As our nation faces a recession, I'm still miffed Chrysler/Mopar isn't reviewing situations such as mine in order to maintain brand loyalty. Even the service writer I spoke with at the local Dodge dealership laughed at the warranty program.