2014 Silly Season Thread

[SnakePlissken]

I hope Cy doesn't mind, but I thought I'd start this up.

From the "PSI news, notes, & various quotes" thread:

PSI Signs Zack Webster for 2014

Power Steering Incorporated head William Power announced today that they have come to terms on a deal for Zack Webster to drive their third car in 2014. Joel "Jinx" Rodriguez will remain in PSI's third car for the remainder of the season. PSI has also filed paperwork to obtain the #23 for Webster-- the number he's been running in ARLA. Although not confirmed as of press time, it is believed that SuperCharged Energy will remain with Webster as he makes the jump into the TM Master Cup series.
 "'Jinx' Rodriguez is a great guy but I think his attention is focused elsewhere," Power stated. "With all his other ventures, we just felt that it'd be best to let him go and seek other options. He has a lot or irons in the fire so to speak. His driving school is a huge demand on his time as well as trying to launch his own team. To be honest, we just haven't seen him around the garage that much lately. We were looking for more a commitment to PSI. We'd like wish Jinx the best and are still open to working with him in the future, but as for the present, I feel it was in both our best interests to part ways at the end of the season."

Of note is that Greg Woodard will spend his second consecutive season at PSI as Kurt Plissken's teammate-- a feat that's never been accomplished!

[zaw24fan]

Webster Reflects on Signing to Power Steering Inc.

It was announced yesterday that Zack Webster signed to Power Steering Inc. for the 2014 TM Master Cup Series. After given a day to soak it all in, Webster addressed the media this afternoon.

"It's truly an amazing feeling once it finally sank in I was going to be racing for Power Steering Inc next year. These guys are truly an amazing team to race for, and it was an offer I just couldn't pass up. I had been talking to Plissken on and off throughout the 2013 season and establishing a great friendship, then the other day he asked me if I wanted to race for PSI in the Master Cup Series. 2014 has got a lot of potential now with the great rides we have set up for next season. Looking forward to getting started! Just want to thank the guys at Power Steering Incorporated for giving me this opportunity."

Paperwork has been sent it to get #23 for Webster, which was the number he drove for in the 2013 ARLA Elite Series season that was lined with many success stories. Webster does plan to bring SuperCharged Energy with him to PSI.

Webster is also slated to attempt the 2013 Round of Indianapolis as a one-off entry with Terra International Motorsports.

[Wizzie]

Wernstrom-MRT Aiming for Full-time TMMC Entry

After Darren Cardel's surprise TMMC victory at Ohio as a Promoter's Option entry, Wernstrom have confirmed that they are looking at a full-time entry for 2014 with DHL Express sponsoring the car under the Wernstrom-MRT banner. In addition, the team has confirmed that the two existing Promoter's Options entries MRT operates, the #67 and the #87, will remain Promotor's Option entries for the 2014 season with new sponsors to be announced later in the season.

"Never in a million years did we expect to win a TMMC race in our first season" said MRT boss Daniel Melrose earlier today. "But what the win has done is put our team on the map within the paddock, and has helped us secure a multi-year deal with DHL Express for a full time entry. We're currently looking at options with TMMC officials to make it a reality, but we have the facilities, expertise and funding to make it a reality." When asked about the rest of the organisation for 2014, the Australian remained upbeat. "Obviously, with the success we've had with the two TMMC entries this year, it's our intention to keep them up and running for 2014 to give our TM Lights drivers for next year some TMMC experience. As far as I know, Darren is in talks with several TMMC teams about a potential full-time drive next year, and we won't hold on to him should he find a better gig somewhere else. I on the other hand will probably remain in the TM Lights for another season, depending on who we can get in the TMMC car."

While Melrose kept driver plans under wraps, it's expected that current Wernstrom driver Frederick Jaeger, and A.L.E.R.T. ace Michael Sykes have been placed on the shortlist for the full-time MRT car.

[bsoyuz]

Small Team searching for technical allince to join Independent's Trophy Entry

Gabriel Macena, brazilian driver that will race next season on FARC with his own team, is searching for potential help from bigger teams to join the Independent's Trophy:

"I'm searching for a Independent's Trophy seat, my objective is to join the TMMC full-time in 2015 or 2016 and having a seat in the Independent's is my big opportunity. The problem is, that I won't be able to do it by myself, so I'm searching for teams that need one driver for this Trophy." - declared Macena today on a press conference at Indianapolis, where he's doing an one-off entry.

[f1fan12]

Pushanda Looking at a full time ride for 2014

Vijay Pushanda spent the 2013 season not doing much in racing, besides a few races with Great Lakes Motorsports. However Pushanda is aiming for a full time slot next year. He states, "This year really humbled me. I missed going from race to race, like I did with Tutino. Even if I didn't make it the full-season with them. I just really love the series and the tracks the TM Master Cup Series races on." Pushanda's best result in the TM Master Cup Series was on debut for Tutino in 2011 in Japan where he finished 11th. He also had some pretty sporting runs with Tutino in 2012 as well.

[Ben Atkins]

Ben Atkins looking to remain full time in 2014

Ben Atkins has said that he is looking to stay in the TM Master Cup Series full time for 2014, however, he does not know what team he would go to if offers came through to him.

Atkins currently drives for Scuderia Tutino, and has scored 4 top 20 finishes this season, with a best of 16th so far in 2013. Before that, Atkins has scored two top 5's, firstly at the 2011 Round of Decatur where he finished 5th, and in the 2012 Round of Quebec where he also finished 5th. The latter was a part of an Independent's Trophy bid, where he was considered a favourite to take the title before a bad showing in the Australia Tour.

"I'd love to stay with the guys at Tutino. They're great people, but if I get other offers, then I'm going to look at them as well. Anyone else would as well."

Atkins' current sponsor Lewis and Ricky's has said that they would stay with him for next season, no matter what team he goes to. The auto chain are also sponsoring Atkins' FARC Elite Series car, which he will be piloting on a part time basis.

[BBoy]

Lareau continues search for full time Master Cup ride

In his sophomore year in TM Lights, Lareau appears to have avoided the slump. Lareau, despite not having won a race in 2013, is running solidly in the top 5 in points, and is a serious threat for the championship. "I think if we can win just one race, we will have enough motivation and determination to fight for the championship." He wishes that some team, any team will look at him to get his chance and prove his worth in the TM Master Cup Series. "I don't care if its for Manticore or Tutino, I want to accomplish my dream of being a full-time driver in the biggest racing series in the world!"

[Lucstar88]

Taylor not returning, Lucstar Motorsports not decided on future in TMMC.

Cade Taylor, the Independent's Trophy driver for Lucstar Motorsports, has decided to not return next year. He is likely to enter FARC full-time next year.

Lucstar Motorsports is not 100% sure if they will return next year. They could return in another Independent's Trophy effort with another driver, with sponsorship dollars, if not it will likely focus on their FARC entries in 2014.

[Michael Sykes]

Wernstrom-MRT Aiming for Full-time TMMC Entry

...While Melrose kept driver plans under wraps, it's expected that current Wernstrom driver Frederick Jaeger, and A.L.E.R.T. ace Michael Sykes have been placed on the shortlist for the full-time MRT car.

Sykes still plans to retire from racing after 2013.

An interesting report made a few days ago, that Michael Sykes was being considerd for a seat at Wernstrtom-MRT in 2014 has been nullified by Sykes himself who, as announced earlier in the year, will still be set for retirement at the end of the 2013 TMMC Season.

Despite a flat-out "no" being made, Sykes still gave an aknowledgement to Daniel Melrose, who's team, when in the hands of Daniel's Father, played a small part in Sykes' development as an Inglesby Scholarship driver back in the late 80s.

"Back when Inglesby gave me a great oppertunity to visit Bathurst, this was before I'd got a chance to race the Nevada M-Type in the British Touring Car Championship, they sent me, Owen Varney and Benito Baggio (The three most impressive drivers at the 1988 Formula Inglesby International Finale) there simply to "drink it all in", I mean, not the beer, that was obvious, but the simple atmospheric experience of being in a pitlane, during one of the most inconic race weekends."

"I'll probably get bored in three or four years time, and Bathurst is probably something I'll do to fill the void, because It's something I haven't done, and Melrose will more than likely be the first person I will talk to about it, but for the time being it is a thank's for the consideration to keep me in the TM Master Cup, but no thanks"

Once he hangs his steering wheel up after the Decatur TMMC Finale, Sykes will become Launch's Director of Motorsport, recruiting drivers for ALERT but mainly focusing on developing the next generation of racing drivers through a thorough scholarship scheme akin to the system pioneered by Inglesby until 1994.

Steve Wisner

[Magus978]

Delgado Open to Full Time Return

Even though he is having his troubles at Indianapolis, Tom Delgado took the time before the qualifying races to declare that he would not only continue on in motorsports in 2014, that he would entertain a return to Master Cup. However, he admitted that he would not return just for the sake of returning.

"If the right offer came in, I'd definitely consider it. It has to be a team that wants to take the next step towards championship contention. At this stage of my career, I refuse to be a backmarker" Delgado said, essentially cutting whatever options he may have had in half. The soon to be 39-year old former Master Cup & ARLA race winner has said recently that he wants to race until he's 45, then see where his career has taken him.

[TheFallenHaveRisen]

Team NIKE hopes to have an increased presence in TMMC for the 2014 season and beyond
JaMarius Knight II, great nephew of Phil Knight and owner of Team NIKE had this to say when asked about the TM Master Cup Series: "At this point, myself and the rest of Team NIKE see the TM Master Cup Series as the top echelon of motorsports, and we hope to become a competitive force in it.  Obviously this isn't going to happen overnight, and we will need to build up a knowledge of the TM Master Cup Series cars and tracks before we can reach the lofty goals of Team NIKE, so we will start this by attempting to be a part of the Independent's Trophy race, and attempting Karjala, Indy and Decatur.  With my son Jamarius III driving, I feel that he, myself and the rest of Team NIKE can make ourselves as much of a force in racing as we are in other sports."

Nike open to sponsoring other cars besides Team NIKE
When Team NIKE was mentioned at a press conference, Matthew Knight (Son of Phil Knight and head of Nike) had this to say "Obviously our number one goal is to turn Team NIKE into a competitive force, but we would be willing to sponsor other cars in order to promote our new line of motor racing shoes designed to keep your feet cooler and safer than the regular racing shoe, Nike StarFrost, now on sale for $149.99"

[JMac525]

Tom Moore Hunts for Full Time Ride

Sophomore IT driver Tom Moore is in search of a full time TM Master Cup drive. Moore has driven for Big Mac Racing's IT effort for the last two seasons. In 2012, Moore finished 2nd place twice on the two short tracks and followed that up in 2013 with a sixth place finish at Road Atlanta. Tom Moore said, "I believe I'm ready to make the next step. I'm a lot more confident on my driving skills beyond the short tracks where I'm confident I can compete to win at. It does not matter what team it is, I'd just like to accomplish my goal of becoming a full time TM Master Cup driver." Big Mac Racing is prepared to sign Tom Moore for next season if the full time ride search doesn't come to fruition. However, if he is signed elsewhere, the team is prepared for another IT run with a free agent such as Makoto Yamada or another FARC veteran looking for a ride.

[navycook75]

Leckliter to stay Independent
Full time FARC Elite Series driver and (so far) Independents Trophy points leader Daniel Leckliter plans to stay Independent for 2014. Leckliter's reasoning behind this is "Because with most of the former champions getting full time rides, there has to be somebody who defend theirs, and I plan on doing just that, that is if I win it first. Regardless, I plan on staying independent."
Number and Sponsor unknown, as YRC is leaving at the end of the season. Leckliter confirmed however that he'll be back with Tonare.

[BuddyNixon]

Drivers Guillermo San Jose and Buddy Nixon Looking at TMMC:

Sports car racers Guillermo San Jose and Buddy Nixon are looking at getting full-time rides in the TM Master Cup next season. Both drivers are better known as sports car and V8 Champ Car drivers. Nixon's wife, Mary, has worked for several teams in the TMMC garage as an engineer over the past 7 years.

[gwoodard41]

Lycoia's plans for 2014 seem to appear more sane than what they pulled in 2013.

Lycoia, which hasn't received a great amount of positive attention after the fiasco at the start of the 2013 season, has apparently stated that they will only be supporting their full time operations in the TM Master Cup with PSI. The Interceptor the primary chassis for the team, will be receiving a facelift for the 2014 model. The Brute however, will not receive any updates and will lose manufacturer support as of the 2014 season.

The company is currently debating which company will replace them in the field. There's great interest in Helsing picking up where Lycoia left off. There's speculation that Lycoia may ask Lenard to replace them in the ITC field with the R37. However, there's not confirmation that this is possible.

Jack Dempsey to drive in the TMMC?

The former ARLA/FARC driver has announced his intentions to drive in the TM Master Cup either full time or in a Independent's Trophy bid. He has stated he will leave the option open to drive in the TM Lights with Terra Int'l Motorsports who have stated they will be kicking Rodriguez out of the car after major performance issues. It is unknown if TIM will have Dempsey as their second driver in the ITC after Dawson is let go, but they are sure that he would be better than Dawson based on testing. Rumors are that either Sticky Hooves or Jack in the Box will be sponsoring Dempsey if he does attempt a run in the TM Lights. Nikon, which has funded the team's TM Lights operations will possibly move onto a second car if officials allow the team to have more than one car. At this current time, Dempsey is still a 'free agent' but has TIM on his shortlist for teams if he can't get a ride elsewhere.

Dawson and Rodriguez to be cut from their rides next season

In a former announcement to reporters, Nick Dawson and Joel Rodriguez were announced to be cut from the team's roster effectively at the end of the 2013 seasons for TM Lights and TMMC. Stating the obvious lack of dedication and performance issues, it's a surprise that they weren't let go sooner.

Woodard signs onto an extension with PSI, announces sponsorship packages will remain pretty much the same.

While PSI announced that Woodard had signed on for a consecutive season, Woodard clarified and put down and rumors that one or more of his sponsors were leaving him. All the sponsors that he had would be staying on... However, he did confirm that he would attempt to get the paint job that had made up for Indianapolis as his primary scheme for Lycoia Motors during the American Tour. Phoenix Performance, the company's performance division, stated that they would only have a car available for the special races. However, nothing is set in stone yet.

[Wizzie]

Wernstrom to Enter Second Full-time Car with LKWLog

With Wernstrom announcing a few weeks ago that the German manufacturer was to enter a works team from 2014, it was revealed earlier today that the MRT-run effort has found sponsorship for a second car in 2014. LKWLog, a chemical manufacturer based in Munich, has jumped on board with the #67 entry, which has now been confirmed to be a full-time entry alongside the DHL-sponsored #87 for 2014 after a one year deal with signed with the organisation. While neither MRT boss Daniel Melrose or representatives from LKWLog were available for comment, rumours are starting to float around that a big-name signing on the driver front is imminent for the now affectionately-dubbed Wernstrom Yellow Hornets.

[Cynon]

(OOC: This is what happens when you sit around at work with literally nothing to do for 4 hours on a Monday.)

Some Teams Find Grid Spots Unsafe

As the 2013 season wears on, some teams are becoming increasingly nervous, as their full-time grid places are not safe for the 2014 season. Reports are that none of the "leading teams" have any reason to be concerned with their full-time grid slot, however, some of the other teams may be feeling some increased pressure for 2014.

Scuderia Tutino has once again found themselves with funding issues, but observers have noted that their financial problems aren't quite as bad in previous years, as they have been able to field three cars on occasions. The only cause for worry is if Alessandro Rossini switches teams, which could be a problem for the team, depending on how much of Rossini's design work they are allowed to keep using in the future. Regardless, Tutino has not had to switch drivers during the 2013 campaign, indicating that they are much more financially sound than they were last year.

Manticore Engineering has encountered a myriad of struggles in the 2013 season. Despite having two of the highest-rated drivers on the circuit in Chris Johaanes and Scott Steudler, they have repeatedly found themselves struggling for points and cash. The Manticore M1A1 is, by all reports, exactly the same as the car Alexis Rainsford put on the pole for the Karjala Grand Prix in 2012, Manticore's lack of development and decreasing funds could be a major concern as the year draws on, and if they enter 2014 at all, there is a chance they could do so with the same car. While this practice used to be the norm in the TM Master Cup series, teams often make more changes to their cars year-to-year.

Another team that is struggling with a lack of development is BlackDiamond Racing, campaigning a modified version of last year's Tremwell with little manufacturer support. BlackDiamond Racing, however, has one of the biggest sponsors on the grid in Kleffer Media, and they have made the most of their money with several strong runs by Gaspar de Sousa and the surprisingly silent Peter Short. Reports are that BDR could inherit Lycoia chassis for 2014 if Lenard takes over at Power Steering Incorporated, but BDR's lack of a new car is beginning to show.

Despite scoring a win at their home race, Katzev Engineering supremo Ivan Katzev admitted that the last third of 2013 could be "very rough" for the popular Russian team. Katzev is, by many, considered "the little team that could", running near the front of the pack with a small budget, largely propped up by the sponsors brought by its two drivers, Yuliya Nosova and fan-favorite Yevgeny Kuznetsov. While there doesn't appear to be a danger for Katzev to lose its grid place for 2014, the warning sirens are beginning to sound.

Warnings that not all is well have already been circulating around Fluffy Penguin Onionburger Incorporated (FPO). Despite the team's calm, bullish attitude towards 2013, a distinct lack of sponsorship has plagued Sealander Ebenezer Quiggles Jr. all season long. Despite qualifying three cars for Indianapolis, only Zelda Ashby's car carried any form of sponsorship. Reports that some of the wheels might be coming undone at FPO do not appear to have hampered Zelda Ashby's championship tilt, as most of the sponsor drama has focused around Ebenezer Quiggles Jr.'s end of the garage -- from the failed Umbrella Corporation sponsorship to the shady dealings of the Korhal sponsorship, it appears that not all is well at FPO, and the chances that this trend could continue are very high.

A team that has had some much more visible off-track trouble is Star Team Nemoto. While Louis Kingston continues to impress, the enthusiam that the 17 car has been generating has not been reflected in Nemoto itself. Despite Nemoto's factory support, enthusiasm is supposedly waning in Japan, despite the Nemoto Celerox maintaining its position as the top-selling sedan in the United States for the 14th straight year. The usually hard-line Takumi Katashima was seen talking to former driver Tom Delgado at Indianapolis, and while Katashima claimed he was merely catching up with Delgado, others speculate that Delgado could be buying into the team if Nemoto pulls out. Both Louis Kingston and Troy Adams's contracts expire at the end of the year, and Tom Delgado and Takumi Katashima's working relationship was heralded for its success despite the numerous differences between the two men. If Nemoto pulls out, and Katashima stays with the team, the top rumor is for Delgado's already-successful ARLA outfit to either merge or become even more closely-linked to Katashima's team.

Stranger rumors are running around in other full-time teams. While the American Launch Energy Racing Team is technically a continuation of FLASH Racing, the rumors that ALERT could split into two teams refuse to die. While it is likely that ALERT will remain as one team, with Welsh driving legend Michael Sykes staying on board as Competition Director, rumors are running around that Sykes and Launch Energy could form a second team -- possibly multiple Independent's Trophy entrants -- for 2014. One of the more bizarre rumors hints that the Mitchell & Sons will absorb ALERT (ironic, since Adam Samson, co-owner of ALERT, used to work for the Mitchells), with the 'new' ALERT being headed by Michael Sykes. This rumor, however, was rubbished by Thomas Mitchell, who said he would only agree to taking over ALERT if there were "some management changes on their end". Part of the uncertainty could stem from Inglesby considering on focusing their entire effort on the Juneau, to put it in more direct competition with its brand-rival Lycoia. Other rumors hint a tie-in between ALERT and Gravity Racing, but little has come of those rumors other than an interesting silence on the part of Gravity Racing owner Packer Carroll.

TM Master Cup series supremo Terry Schoffner said that the wild ALERT rumors are "interesting publicity". "Michael [Sykes] is retiring, and they're not doing as well as they should... he's carrying that team, but there are better ways to excite the fans then all of these silly stories... I don't mean to belittle wrestling, but even wrestling could stage behind the scenes drama and not negatively impact the team."

Perhaps the team with the most shocking debate into the 2014 campaign is with Team EFR, where owner/driver Scott Bates, second driver Ian Cooper, and some of the mechanics were having a heated debate in their hauler. "I think Cooper wanted to steal some headlines by saying that if he wins a race this year, then he gets to redecorate the shop... and dear God we're trying to talk him out of it." one of the team members said. "He really wants to put in blue and pink lights in the lobby, and that kinda scares me... he might be messing with us. I hope he is."


Driver Market Heating Up

The fortunes of many drivers in the TM Master Cup series are often tied up with the fortunes of the teams, especially in the lower half of the grid. While many of those teams struggle to survive, drivers often find signing for such teams to be ill-advised until entry lists are published. The 2014 silly season, however, could be a different story, as there are some top drives that may become available.

The most discussed ride for 2014 appears to be the second Volpi seat alongside Leonid Roderick. While Volpi has not confirmed that Packer Carroll will be replaced in the team for 2014, they have not decided to retain him, either. Carroll's departure would leave the seat wide open, with Chris Johaanes, Rachel Rainsford, Scott Steudler, Alessandro Rossini, Mélanie Clévenot, Mathias Taube, and Luciano Soveral's names all mentioned in connection with that ride.

Much was made of Mathias Taube's supposed "dismissal" from Gessler Richter earlier in the year, however, the Swede has apparently been given an offer to stay, as he presently leads the championship by a comfortable margin. Some reports have surfaced that indicate Taube could be headed to Hodges-Walter Racing, with Luciano Soveral taking his place at Gessler. Taube confirmed that Hodges-Walter did give him an offer, but that he was not going to consider it until Australia. "Gessler makes good cars, and Hodges-Walter makes good cars. Where I'm at, maybe I don't want to leave." Taube said. "I talked to Alexis [Rainsford] about her move to Indy cars, and she said that at the end of the day she saw a chance of a lifetime and had to take it. Maybe I'm in the same spot now, but maybe not!"

In regards to the Hodges-Walter seat alongside Adrien Devereux, while Luciano Soveral has apparently been looking for alternatives, so has the team -- with the aforementioned Mathias Taube as the hot favorite to replace the Brazilian if he switches teams, but if Soveral leaves the team and Taube stays, then Hodges-Walter Racing has David Krikorian waiting in the wings. Depending on Katzev's fortune, however, Yuliya Nosova and her Calton-Morel connections might be enough to slot her alongside Devereux. A surprise contender for that ride is Swiss sophomore Mélanie Clévenot, who currently drives for the Gessler-powered and supported Lynxe Racing. Lynxe Racing took up its option on Clévenot, but it's been reported that her contract contains a clause that would let her switch teams if she was given a better offer.

The intrigue with Lynxe Racing is that, if Clévenot leaves, they do not appear to have a strong driver lined up to fill the void her departure would create. While they have been developing Quebecois driver Clair Auxier and American Ashley Tucker, Lynxe Racing does not appear keen to promote either to the TM Master Cup series yet. If Auxier is not ready, Lynxe Racing's options do not look very good if Clévenot leaves the team. Unless they make a bid for Yuliya Nosova or Zelda Ashby, Lynxe could be left with only one female driver for 2014 -- Divina Henton.

Depending on the fortunes of the team, the ALERT seat that Michael Sykes will vacate could be another plum ride waiting to be filled, and if rumors are true, both ALERT seats may be available since, despite winning at Quincy, ALERT looks unlikely to keep Chris Davenport in the second car, and relegating him either to a third driver role, or leasing him to another team. The number of drivers that have been linked to Sykes's ALERT seat are beyond count, but both Chris Johaanes and Scott Steudler appear to be candidates, along with 2013 Ohio winner Darren Cardel, Luciano Soveral, Louis Kingston, Kevin Dwyer, Zack Duff, Packer Carroll, Ebenezer Quiggles Jr., David Krikorian, José Luis Martinez, and Mika Paasonen.

[Magus978]

Delgado on Nemoto Rumors: "Not Today"

Tom Delgado's focus is squarely on a good performance at Indianapolis. At least, that's what the soon to be 39-year old former 2-time TMMC race winner indicated.

With the rumors flying around regarding Star Team Nemoto's off-track troubles and the possibility of former Nemoto driver Tom Delgado buying into the team, Delgado moved quickly to change his focus. "I won't be addressing rumors today, sorry. My focus is on doing everything I can to give Ocean Motorsports a good run in the Round of Indianapolis. Then we'll see" Delgado said when asked about his potential re-involvement with Star Team Nemoto.

He did, however, admit to talking at length with former boss Takumi Katashima, but insisted it was merely the two catching up with each other. "It's been great to be able to talk to Katashima-san again after being away for so long" Delgado said when asked about his long-time business partner and friend.

[Wizzie]

Taube, Soveral top leaked MRT-Wernstrom shortlist

With the silly season continuing to hot up, a leaked shortlist, supposedly from the newly formed Melrose Racing Team-Wernstrom works team, has been doing the rounds within the paddock. While there hasn't been any official press release from the team, the shortlist allegedly has standout Finn and championship leader Mathias Taube, and Brazilian Luciano Soveral being the two standouts on the list, with both being offered multi-year multi-million dollar deals from MRT's paymasters Wernstrom to drive the #67 LKGLog and the second DHL car, which is rumoured to be being renumbered from the #87 to the #73 after a severance deal was struck between MRT and incumbent Ohio winner Darren Cardel. Manticore Motorsport drivers Chris Johaanes and Scott Steudler have also appeared on the shortlist to drive full-time in the TMMC after the recent struggles of Manticore have led to the pair looking for options elsewhere, along with former Gessler driver Franz Redlich. In addition, the shortlist is also reported to include Frederick Jaeger, Han Yong-Sung and MRT boss Daniel Melrose for the MRT TM Lights entries, as well as a rumoured Wernstrom-backed Promotor's option or full-time entry which would alternate between the three drivers over the course of the season.

[PackerMan71]

PACKER TALKS ABOUT 2014 SEASON, WEIGHS HIS OPTIONS

After the Round of Indianapolis concluded, Volpi driver Packer Carroll held a meeting with the media to discuss his upcoming plans for 2014, and to address the rumors about his race team, Gravity Racing, Inc., and the ALERT team.

PACKER: I've decided, after months of mulling it over, that I want to continue racing in the TM Master Cup Series. I still have a desire to hoist the Master Cup one day, as dumb as that sounds considering how my first two seasons have gone. As much as I hate to admit it, I don't think that championship will come with Volpi. We've tried every which way to Sunday to be competitive, but it just seems like we're just not a good fit for each other. Either that, or I just suck as a Cup driver, but in any event, I know the writing is on the wall. This season has pretty much been a total waste, save for Gatineau, and I wouldn't blame Cyril if he didn't want to retain me, being a team owner myself. So, I'm hoping another top team decides to pick me up, because while I want to stay in Cup, I also want to be competitive and maybe become a title contender one day.

When asked about whether or not he had been contacted about ALERT and GRI possibly joining forces...

PACKER: I've heard the rumors myself, but I haven't been contacted by anybody from ALERT to either drive for them or join forces with my team for a joint Cup effort. At this point, I'm certainly open to anything ALERT has to offer, if they are interested in discussing such a deal with me, and that goes for any Cup team that might be interested. At this point, the door is wide open. I'm just waiting for someone to come through it.

[PackerMan71]

BREAKING NEWS: GRI TO POSSIBLY BUY OUT STAR NEMOTO RACING?

In a blockbuster announcement, it has been reported by various sources that Gravity Racing, Inc. has offered to buy Star Nemoto Racing.

It has been reported that Star Nemoto has had some difficulty finding funding, despite the success of Louis Kingston this season, and there have been rumors that Nemoto might be pulling its factory backing at the end of the season. Team boss Takumi Katashima was seen talking to former driver Tom Delgado at Indy, but Delgado quickly shut down rumors that he was buying into the team, so it appears that Katashima started looking to other avenues, with one of those avenues possibly being Gravity Racing, Inc. and their new factory backing from Isanni, who is still relatively new to the American racing scene, and as the only one of the Big Five teams in the FARC Elite Series with Isanni backing, GRI will be receiving a lot of their support.

GRI team owner Packer Carroll was asked about the possible buyout during practice for the Round of Colorado.

PACKER: Well, the rumors are partially true. I have been approached by Takumi Katashima, and he relayed that Nemoto might not be sticking around next year, and was wondering if I was interested in possibly buying into the team. Needless to say, it got my attention. All I can really say is that nothing is final as of right now, but we are discussing it, and if a deal is finalized, we'll call for a press conference, and you'll all get to find out.

[Ben Atkins]

Team Kwik Fit looking to buy out Star Team Nemoto?

Dash Cup team, Team Kwik Fit, are looking to find their way onto the 2014 TM Master Cup grid with a possible buyout of the Star Team Nemoto team. Quinton Young, CEO of Team Kwik Fit, said that after hearing the rumours, it was an opportunity of a lifetime for the team, and that they had the resources, sponsorship and funding to go for the opportunity. It is unknown at this point in time what manufacturer the team would sport if they made it onto the grid.

Rumours of drivers for the team, however, are known, as Young has said that he would like to bring up some Dash Cup talent to the team, while also bringing in experienced drivers. It is rumoured that Young is aiming to retain their current drivers for the special events, Carla Rosinski and Avery Holtzmann, however, Rosinski has said that she does not plan on returning to the team after the car only lasted one lap at Indianapolis.

On top of this, their current Dash Cup driver Cassandra Collins turns 18 in October, and Young has already said that if the bid is successful, then Cassandra Collins is guaranteed to earn some seat time in 2014 after she turns 18. Another rumour revolving around this is that as soon as Collins turns 18, she would be replacing the lowest performing driver at the team, and they would be demote to the third car in hope they can earn as many promoters options as possible.

[Magus978]

Delgado Confirms Star Nemoto Rumors, Willing to Put Money Where Mouth Is

After ducking the rumors surrounding him and Star Team Nemoto during the Round of Indianapolis, it appears Tom Delgado is now ready to address those rumors.

Speaking from the Tom Delgado Racing winter complex in Miami, Delgado admitted that the interest is definitely there to make a deal on his end. "I would love nothing more than to help Star Team Nemoto and Katashima-san stay in the series. I'm always ready and willing to make a deal if everything is right. With the financial problems of the past behind us, Tom Delgado Racing is ready to once again "splash the cash" to get where I want us to be" The 39-year old former TMMC & ARLA race winner said.

Delgado was also asked a hypothetical question: If he were to succeed in his plan to buy into Star Team Nemoto and keep them on the grid for 2014, would there be personnel changes? "That's a ridiculous question right now. Ask me again if this deal happens" Delgado said resoundingly, not willing to count his chickens before they hatch.

[flyingturns89]

ASCC driver Bloomers plans to file for Independent's Trophy entry.

In 2012, Chuck Bloomers caught the eye of many when he raced a one-off car he owned to into the TM Master Cup Series Round of Decatur. Though Bloomers finished 32nd after mechanical problems struck the car late in the race, he still climbed out of the car incredibly happy. A year later, Bloomers still thinks about what could have been had the car held on until the end, which may be part of the reason he has decided to file for a 2014 Independent's Trophy entry driving for his own team, Chuck Bloomers Racing. Bloomers, who will turn 40 this year, most recently ran for James Dalton Racing in ASCC in 2013, where he scored [race and points results not available at this time] in his rookie season.

[BWard]

Davidson may remain in Master Cup, possibility of looking for a full-time drive

After showing decent pace and results in the 2013 Season, current Independents Trophy and TM Lights driver Jim Davidson is almost certain to remain in the Master Cup, but he is current thinking about the possibilities of going one step further and becoming a full-time driver for the 2014 Season. Despite lacking good results lately in TM Lights, Davidson has stated that this has not set back his plans for next season. "I'm not going to let my recent struggling races get the better of me, as I firmly believe I can slot myself somewhere in the TM Master Cup Series in 2014. I know it won't be easy, but hopefully the opportunity for me will rise when I get the chance, but we just need to see how the rest of the Season goes and hope it ends well."

[Alpineopossum]

Taylor Moving Up?

TM Lights driver Cameron Taylor remains undecided on his plans for next season but he is keeping his options open. "I'm happy where I am now, and I'll always be thankful to Dan [Timothy] for giving me my big opportunity. But if I have a shot at running the Master Cup series I'll jump at it." Taylor recently added Cyra as a sponsor and is reportedly working on a large sponsorship deal, supposedly with an outdoor/camping related company. Taylor, an avid outdoorsman and former Eagle Scout, hasn't spoken much on this issue. It is believed that he will continue at his current team if he does not move to the Cup series.

[antknee]

Evans Motorsports Exploring Another Master Cup Bid

After a two season absence from TMMC, Evans Motorsports is exploring the possibility of reentering the circuit.  No word on the stable of drivers but sources say that Raibeart Scott is a strong candidate.  Evans typically prefers fielding a two-car team so the lack of rumors surrounding a second driver are puzzling.  It could be a matter of funding, licensing or a desire to keep it under wraps.  No word on a manufacturer choice although Lenard has been their perennial chassis.

[JINXaPHRENIC]

Jinx Racing for 2014:

"At the moment I have no confirmation as to weather or not I'll get approved for an IT entry and is highly unlikely that we'll ever get a full time spot on the grid. We're still hoping to get some sort of approval for 2014. I hope the TMMC officials can get us an answer at some point in the near future to get ready for 2014 so we know where to go with our operation as our new investors would like some answers."

Jinx Rodriguez for 2014:

"As of right now, I have no actual prospects lined up. As previously reported PSI and I have parted ways for the TMMC and TIM and I are parting ways for the TM Lites. No hard feelings. It's true I may have been wearing myself a bit thin. I keep forgetting I'm getting older. I appreciate everything TIM and PSI have done for me in helping me return to stock car racing. If my team can't get approved for a IT entry then of course I'm open for a ride with another team or even in another series if my entries don't get approved." Jinx

[crl]

MT Motorsports to bid for Independents' Trophy once again in TM Master Cup in 2014

MT Motorsports has put forth another application for an Independents' Trophy run in TM Master Cup for 2014. Kraig Mummert and Brian Morris are expected to remain the team's drivers. No further details are known at this time.

[JINXaPHRENIC]

JINX Racing 2014 Update:

"Finally got some answers for everyone. JINX Racing will return to the racing grid in 2014. JINX Racing has officially filed for a spot in the 2014 IT and a full time spot in the TM Lites series to get everything going again. As of right now, there are no official reports as to the drivers although there are some rumors. Jinx Rodriguez may be the IT entry driver in the car that is hoped to be #86. The TM Lites entry driver has not been confirmed although Rodriguez, Matt Smith, and a couple of others are rumored as possibilities. The TM Lites entry may end up being a split ride for 2014. If there are any other drivers interested, we'd like to know. Thank you all for your time and see you in '14." - Representative of S.I.G./JINX Racing George Rodriguez

Jinx Rodriguez 2014 update:

"I had hoped to pull the double in the Trucks and FARC Elite series but I missed the deadline for my own entries and can't secure a drive. So I put a lot of effort to get ready last minute for 2014 TM Lites and IT. I will run for the 2014 IT as I really want to get back into the TMMC full time at some point. As for TM Lites, I'm hoping to find a capable driver for most of the season. I do still enjoy racing in the series but I may only run a couple road course races. See you in 2014." -Jinx Rodriguez Owner of JINX Racing & School

S.I.G. For 2014

"We are looking for cars to sponsor for 2014 as we're only sponsoring JINX Racing on a part time basis for the 2014 IT to gain some exposure. We are looking to sponsor a car or two preferably teammates for 2014 in TM Lites, FARC Elite series or even help a full time TMMC ride. We do plan to sponsor JINX Racing full time should nothing come up for exposure opportunities." -S.I.G. Representative

[Cynon]

Lenard, Delgado, and ALERT?

The latest rumor to come out of the future of the American Launch Energy Racing Team seems, surprisingly, less bizarre than many others. It appears there is a possibility Lenard could be headed to ALERT, with promises of "established drivers" in the team's race seats. This rumor seems to be accompanied by former race winner Tom Delgado buying into the team, in an effort to bring Lenard back into the series.

While it seems likely that Launch Energy will depart the team and align itself with another entity, the only details given out were that Lenard officials had met with Adam Samson and the rest of the team ownership. Samson, who still owns majority interest in ALERT, refused to comment on the Lenard deal.

No word on what this means for Chris Davenport's future, which looks increasingly clouded as the season goes on.

[Magus978]

Delgado Hints at Potential Lenard Backing, Willing to Put Money Where Mouth Is (Again)

Tom Delgado's name is once again being thrown around in a potential team-buying scenario, only this time he may be bringing more than just bags of cash with him. The latest rumors indicate that ALERT could see Delgado & team owner Adam Samson join forces in an effort to bring Lenard back to the series full time. In his weekly spot on a reputable radio station in New York City, Delgado readily admitted that he'd be glad to "put my money where my mouth is", essentially inviting Mr. Samson & Lenard representatives to come to the negotiating table to talk business.

"If Lenard & Mr. Samson would be willing to sit down with me and talk business, then I'm more than prepared to put my money where my mouth is. I'm very open about my financial dealings and very open about my organization's business prospects. Tom Delgado Racing made a $3.3 million profit in the first half of 2013, mainly from merchandise sales & prize money. TDR is self sufficient, thus there is considerable amount of money available to make a deal. I'm always ready to put my money where my mouth is, and now that I'm a Lenard driver, it's time that they return to the TM Master Cup Series full time." Delgado said during his 10-minute segment.

Tom Delgado finished 37th in his only TM Master Cup start of the 2013 season at the Round of Indianapolis. He is a former winner in both the TM Master Cup Series and ARLA Elite Series.

[gwoodard41]

A new superteam to form for the Independent's Trophy?

It seems that Terra International Motorsports and Nocturne Racing, who are allegedly PSI's unofficial B and C teams, are in talks to possibly merge their operations and rename the team to Nocturne International Racing. Terra Int'l Motorsports, which has seen its share of controversies in the TM Master Cup, will most likely be shot down by officials on this rather ridiculous idea. Their plan includes to have a 4 cars in the running for the Independent's trophy instead of the allowed 2. For the two teams and their owners to think that this is a good idea, they must be on some potent stuff. This idiotic plan would apparently allow drivers such as Jack Dempsey, Ashley Ambercroft, Calvin Hobbes, and possibly Ike Durbin to be racing for the ITC while competing with one another in an elimination contest to determine who goes on to the year 2015 with the team. The contest would determine that the two drivers with the lowest amount of points and/or the highest DNF or DNQ rate would force them to be handed pink slips. However, the two teams plan to only do this in the 2014 season as an experiment and resuming normal operations by 2015.

(Note: This is a crazy idea and something I thought would bring up some discussion within the canon about this sort of thing. Besides, what other team would be crazy enough to try this, short of FPO?)

[Cynon]

Hodges-Walter Racing Signs Clévenot for 2014

Hodges-Walter Racing announced on Wednesday that Swiss driver Mélanie Clévenot was signed to partner Adrien Devereux at the team for 2014. Clévenot, who currently drives for Lynxe Racing, will replace Brazilian Luciano Soveral.

"We are pleased to welcome Mélanie Clévenot into the Hodges-Walter Racing family." team co-owner Alan Hodges said. "Her spirit, both on and off the track, exemplifies the greatest qualities of the team, and we look forward to working with her."

Clévenot exploded onto the TM Master Cup series scene in 2012, winning the Round of New York and Rookie of the Year despite missing half of the season. Clévenot was, as usual, all smiles in the press conference.

"It's great to be driving for a team like Hodges-Walter Racing in 2014, they have a great group of people there, not just people who are good at their jobs, but great human beings." Clévenot said in the press release.
"Lynxe Racing is a good team with good people, but when I joined them it was only a one-year deal. When I learned about this opportunity I jumped on it, because I felt I was ready for it."

Adrien Devereux reportedly recommended Clévenot to Alan Hodges and Carl Walter after Luciano Soveral informed them he would be leaving the team for a more lucrative offer.

[Lucstar88]

Michael Humpfreys to enter TMMC? Independents Trophy entry?

Humpfreys, the TEXAS 500 winner in ASCC, has declared he would like to join TMMC in 2014, after one year of experience in ASCC, the 28 year-old driver has previously made attempts at Indy, and will attempt the Decatur race. He also announced, if accepted, he would run under his own team, Michael Humpfreys Racing.

[crl]

Reports: MT Motorsports looking to hire Nosova for one-off drive for Decatur, possibly beyond

MT Motorsports in only an Independents' Trophy team in TM Master Cup. It's no surprise that they want to sit at the big kids' table, eventually.

But that may be coming sooner rather than later. That is, if reports from the team's base in Murfreesboro, Tennessee are to be believed.

Multiple reports are pointing to the team possibly attempting to hire Yuliya Nosova, recently unceremoniously dumped by Katzev, as a one-off drive for the season finale in Decatur.

Fred Caldwell's original plan for Decatur was for Kraig Mummert to drive the 114 in an attempt to make the race. The plans changed a couple of weeks ago, when he managed to secure enough money for a second car that will be driven by the team's alternate Independents' Trophy driver, Brian Morris.

But when Nosova ended up on the market, sources say Caldwell's plans changed drastically. Caldwell reportedly believes that he can attract a major national (or even international) corporate sponsor for a three-car team in Decatur, and that a driver of Nosova's caliber can help seal a major deal.

"Yuliya is a proven TM Master Cup Series driver, a race winner," said one anonymous source. "Fred absolutely believes that he can attract a big-time sponsor if he can convince Yuliya to drive for him in Decatur."

The money from a major deal could help the team boost its engine package for Decatur, being beneficial for Mummert and Morris, in addition to giving Nosova yet another competitive car.

It could also, however, create a major controversy. An Independents' Trophy team suddenly rising to the top of the series, even for one race, could stir up trouble amongst all its competitors.

A few other reports suggest that, if the Nosova deal did go well, that the team would try to employ her for 2014.

Kraig Mummert currently sits in ninth in the Independents' Trophy points standings, 51 points behind the leader, Dan Leckliter. Mummert's best finish on the season to date was in the Round of France, where he finished eighth, the highest finishing Independents' Trophy driver in that race. Brian Morris attempted to qualify for the Round of Indianapolis, but did not make the field.

It should be noted that the Round of Decatur will not count towards the Independents' Trophy standings, as that championship will be decided in the penultimate round in British Columbia. 

The 114 car has one Independents' Trophy race left to run, the upcoming Round of Queensland. Mummert will drive the car.

Yuliya Nosova has five career TM Master Cup Series wins, including this year's Round of Russia, her home race. She has also won the series's most prestigious race, the Karjala Grand Prix in 2007, which was her very first TM Master Cup Series win.

[gwoodard41]

FROZR Graphics out, Prime INC. in for Woodard.

It seems that Greg Woodard will be switching sponsors next season as FROZR Graphics will be leaving him and Prime Inc, a trucking company that serves the lower 48 states and Canada will be taking it's place. A preliminary scheme is already in the works... Woodard, who has had no luck with FROZR will have it replaced by the Trucking Company who sponsored him during his short track racing days. "It's great to be having them back onboard for next season." A enthused Woodard told reporters, "They provided my old team with decent funding and they pledged a lot more if we could get them on one of my cars in 2014."

[RetrogradeRenegade]

Wernstrom Decatur one-off drive on the table for Nosova?

Gerhard Pietsch, the man in charge has today hinted that Wernstrom Motorsport is seeking to place former Karjala GP winner Yuliya Nosova in one of its 256's for the upcoming TMMC Round of Decatur. Nosova, who has spent the last few seasons impressing for the underdog Katzev Engineering team, was sacked on the eve of the Round of Victoria in favour of Columbian rookie Carlos Roqueta. While Roqueta did impress in the race, many still feel that Nosova's short-notice replacement was quite unwarranted. Among those is Pietsch himself, who said of Nosova,

"I believe Yuliya is one of the strongest drivers in the TM Master Cup Series. I find the fact that she has a not-inconsiderable chance of missing out on one of the biggest races of the year quite alarming. I won't comment on her dismissal, but I will say that I would very much like to see her driving one of my cars."

Pietsch went on to confirm that Wernstrom does indeed have the ability to field another car for the Round of Decatur, though whether it would be approved by Master Cup officials was another matter.

Pietsch also refused to comment on rumours that the team was pursuing Nosova to drive one of the MRT Wernstroms in 2014. The team is considered a shoo-in to make the jump to a full-time team next year, though Pietsch is unwilling to rest on his laurels,

"It has not been confirmed that we will be running a full-time schedule next year, so that is our current top priority. Having a strong driving lineup is important as well, but it means little to us if we cannot contest the full season."

[Cynon]

Team Saar USA Working on Comeback?

An unconfirmed report has surfaced, indicating that Team Saar USA is poised to return to the TM Master Cup series with a pair of "American rookies" as its drivers. Names that have been associated with this tilt include Cameron Taylor, Joe Olenick, Austin Howard, Brandon Lareau, Nick Azure and Nikki Curtis.

A representative from the team could not be reached for comment.

[Backmarker]

Thought I'd tidy this up with a list of teams like in years past.

== Confirmed Teams ==

Hodges-Walter Racing- Calton-Morel Altair
Adrien Devereux (FRA)
Melanie Clevenot (SUI)
13 Alan Hodges (WAL)
Test/Reserve:
???

Volpi Racing Team- Volpi VC06
4 Leonid Roderick (USA)
Alessandro Rossini (TBA)
???
Test/Reserve:
???

Gessler Richter MC Team- Gessler MTW14
Arto Kekkonen (FIN)
???
???
Test/Reserve:
???

BlackDiamond Racing- ???
Gaspar de Sousa (POR)
???
???
Test/Reserve:
???

Lynxe Racing- Lynxe 314
11 Divinia Henton (ENG)
???
???
Test/Reserve:
???

Power Steering, Inc.- Lycoia Interceptor
16 Kurt Plissken (USA)
41 Greg Woodard (USA)
Zack Webster (USA)
Test/Reserve:
???

Scuderia Tutino- Tutino TR4
42 ???
50 Ben Atkins (ENG)
48 ???
Test/Reserve:
???

Mitchell & Sons Racing- ?
74 ???
???
???
Test/Reserve:
???

Team EFR- Journey ???
44- Ian Cooper (USA)
88- Scott Bates (USA)
Test/Reserve:
???

ALERT- ?
???
???
???
Test/Reserve:
???

Katzev Engineering- Katzev KE05
Yevgeny Kuznetsov (RUS)
???
???
Test/Reserve:
???

Melrose Racing Team- Wernstrom 257
???
???
???
Test/Reserve:
???

Team Saar USA- Saar Carolina
23 Joe Olenick (R) (USA)
26 Cameron Taylor (USA)
???
Test/Reserve:
???

== Unconfirmed Teams ==

FPO, Inc.- ?
???
???
999- Marcos Leonard (CAN)
Test/Reserve: ???

FLASH Racing- ?
???
???
Test/Reserve:
???

Star Team Nemoto?- ?
???
???
Test/Reserve:
???

Manticore Engineering- Manticore ???
???
???
Test/Reserve:
???

[Cynon]

Feel free to use that to speculate -- that's what this thread is for, anyway. Speculations, lies, crazy predictions...

The only drivers that I think you got 100% right are the PSI cars, though the car numbers on third cars may change given certain circumstances.

Demerit Points for 2014?

Amid recent controversies around driver suspensions and penalties, TM Master Cup series officials were presented with a proposal about implementing "demerit points" to make for a more 'standardized' penalty system. This system, much like the one being implemented in Formula A, would have drivers accumulating points for infractions they commit throughout the season. Suspensions and grid penalties would be handed out after a certain number of demerit points.

[Backmarker]

The only drivers that I think you got 100% right are the PSI cars, though the car numbers on third cars may change given certain circumstances.

Well, that's the only team that's 100% confirmed, so there you go.

[SnakePlissken]

The only drivers that I think you got 100% right are the PSI cars, though the car numbers on third cars may change given certain circumstances.

Dang! I was kind of hoping it was settled. After researching it-- the best I knew of at the time it wasn't being used (at least at the time of the original posting anyway) at all on the TMpedia site. Just checked it again and it was open save for couple of one off entries for Kosta Theodorakos. Hopefully we're in the clear!

[pennst24]

Eichholtz Looking for Ride?

Reports out of the Eichholtz Atlantic Racing camp is that Jacob Eichholtz may be left out of the driver pool at the team when they become HQS Racing for 2014, with majority ownership in the possession of English TM Master Cup driver Ben Atkins. Eichholtz, the 24-year old Floridian, drives for the team in the Independents' Trophy as well as TM Lights. With current sponsorship deals unlikely to return in 2014, Eichholtz may have to look elsewhere for a drive.

"I don't know what I'll be doing next season to be honest," Eichholtz said. "I do know that, obviously, I want to stay in the Master Cup Series in some capacity. I would like to go full-time but I haven't had any solid negotiations with any team as of yet, just some small conversations. Ben has been my best friend in the paddock and I've had a blast working with him on this team but if the sponsorship isn't there, it isn't there, nothing we can do about that. I'd like to be able to find my footing somewhere solid where I know what I am going to be doing year after year."

[Backmarker]

The only drivers that I think you got 100% right are the PSI cars, though the car numbers on third cars may change given certain circumstances.

Dang! I was kind of hoping it was settled. After researching it-- the best I knew of at the time it wasn't being used (at least at the time of the original posting anyway) at all on the TMpedia site. Just checked it again and it was open save for couple of one off entries for Kosta Theodorakos. Hopefully we're in the clear!

Theodorakos probably won't be back, so it's fine by me personally.

[Cynon]

"Spec" Car for TM Europe and TM Mexico in 2014... TM Lights?

Omecha and Inglesby announced that they are collaborating on a "spec" car that is intended for use by the TM Europe and TM Mexico series for 2014. Both TM Europe and TM Mexico use TM Lights machinery from 2011 and before, which is becoming seriously outdated. Plans are for the TM Mexico and TM Europe championships to use a spec car from Omecha, allowing the teams to carry engines and badging from any manufacturer. Inglesby, which supplies all but 3 of the TM Mexico regulars, and has won 18 of the last 20 TM Mexico races, will supply the engine used to test the new car. TM Europe allowed use of 2012 and 2013 TM Lights machinery, but only Equipe D1 has used a current-era TM Lights car.

The experimental M14 car has been proposed for expansion series in Asia (TM Asia), Australia (TM Australia) and in the Middle East (TM Middle East), but everything is just a rumor. Omecha is also reportedly looking at a variant of the M14 that would be usable in endurance racing. Omecha estimates that the cost of the car, coupled with the Inglesby engine they are testing with, could be half the cost of a current TM Lights car. Those prices could be a boon to TM Europe, which has seen most of its teams depart or disband in the past few seasons due to costs, and to TM Mexico, where supplies of competitive 2011-spec cars has run disturbingly low.

There previously existed a TM Australia, but the series was absorbed by mainstream V8 racing in the early 2000s. A TM Asia was touted in the early 2000s, and the idea tested with a TM Lights race in China in 2010.

[Ben Atkins]

Ashley Tucker searching for IT ride?

Current TM Lights and FARC Elite Series driver Ashley Tucker has reportedly been searching for an Independent's Trophy ride for the 2014 TM Master Cup Series season. Tucker currently drives for the Lynxe Women's Racing Team in TM Lights, who field a full time effort in TM Master Cup, as well as Lights, however, the team have been previously appeared to not be keen to promote Tucker to one of their full time cars yet, and Tucker says that an IT outing would be vital for help her cause in the long term.

On top of this, her family backed team, who are hoping to enter the season finale at Decatur this season as a one-off, are not keen on bringing forward the funding to supply Tucker with the IT ride for 2014, which means Tucker is left searching on the market for a ride.

"If I'm going to keep advancing my career as the years go on, it's important for me to take steps forwards." said Tucker, "Last year, I took the leap to TM Lights, and I've proven I can win races in that series. I want to be able to prove in the next few years that I can be competitive in the biggest league of them all as well."

"If the team enters, I have a chance to prove myself this year at Decatur. If I can make the race, and run well, then that'll be awesome for me on the short run. It might be the single thing that seals me an IT ride. You never know."

On top of her TM Lights win at Darlington, Tucker has also registered three wins in the FARC Elite Series; two on 1.5 mile speedways in 2012, and the rain race in Mexico in the 2013 season.

[RykoRacing]

Fleury Racing Team to earn a spot in the TMMC?

Driver François (better known as Flash) Fleury is looking to get the Fleury Racing Team, which he also owns, into the Master Cup for 2014.

Fleury and teammate Tyson Stiles (no relation to Palmer) are coming off of a great 2013 PRAC season, finishing 2nd and 4th in points, respectively. After finishing 8th in the 2012 Racing Rookies' World Cup, Fleury has been looking to take Team Fleury to a big racing league. He says, “The [TM Master] Cup would be a great way to get my name out there as an elite racer, and I'm hoping the team can earn a spot.”

Fleury also states he is a huge fan of the Series, with his favorite drivers being Arto Kekkonen and Mathias Taube from Richter-Gessler. He has watched the series since he was 9.

[navycook75]

Sponsor lined up for Leckliter Racing?

It was announced on the Monday after the Round of Victoria that Leckliter Racing will pick up Hong Kong based sponsor Flex-Box for the 2014 season.

"They offered us 3 years and unlimited croissants, can't say no to that." said a very delighted Daniel Leckliter.

Number is still yet to be confirmed, but it's said it might not change.

[Backmarker]

Thomas Dietrich Eyes Future in Master Cup
Two-time European Touring Car Tour champion Thomas Dietrich surprised many when he announced his move to stock cars for 2013. However, Dietrich has proven his capabilities in the Dash Cup series, scoring a few top tens, and, along with Peter van der Schmidt, has built up newcomer team D&S Automotive, securing them a full-time place on the grid for 2014.

Dietrich's move to Dash Cup had been rumored to be in preparation for a possible move to the TM Master Cup Series, and Dietrich recently shed more light on his plans for 2014.

"At the moment, our focus for next season will be on the Dash Cup campaign, developing our cars more as well as getting more seat time for myself", Dietrich recently stated in an interview with the German press. "However, we are definitely looking into being more involved in the Master Cup series in some capacity, and I'm hoping that I might be able to be ready for an even greater role in 2015."

Dietrich and his team have attempted Karjala and Indianapolis this season, and reportedly requested a Promoter's Option for a race during the European tour, but nothing materialized from these rumors. Now, the team hopes to have a much stronger presence in the series, with a possible bid for the Independent's Trophy.

"I can say that we are definitely examining the prospect of running an Independent campaign in TMMC. Otherwise, I don't know if the team would make an appearance next season, because Peter and I want to guarantee we make some starts, and race promoters don't seem to be willing to take a gamble on less established drivers and teams."

"All in all, I'm hoping that our Dash Cup efforts and this hypothetical Independent run will get us some attention from the full time teams. I will admit I definitely want an opportunity with a big organization, and perhaps it may come this year; If not, however, we're prepared to show them our capabilities."

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