A New Ganassi

Has Chip Ganassi Racing ever been a power house team within NASCAR? The Organization has won multiple IndyCar and Sports Car championships. The organization has won multiple IndyCar and Sports Car races and championships; yet the NASCAR side of his operation has only won a handful of races – big races mind you, the Daytona 500, the Brickyard 400 and the Sprint All-Star race, but still a limited number. What is lacking is a Sprint Cup Series championship trophy in Chip Ganassi Racing's resume to go along with the wins.

With the introduction of Kyle Larson, following the release of Juan Pablo Montoya, there has been a remarkable change in Ganassi's chances of securing a Sprint Cup title. It might now happen this year, or even next year, however Chip Ganassi Racing appears to have what it takes to be a serious challenger for the title by 2016.

            Chip Ganassi made a bold statement by tapping the young Kyle Larson to take over command of the 42 car. While many doubted his decision, my personal opinion is, it is the smartest move Ganassi could have ever made. The struggling team has needed youth and talent, to spread over the group. The change was immediate as Ganassi revamped the Target team, and added life back to the car with the flashy white wheels and blended paint scheme, but this won’t change everything. The unleashed talent will.

            When Chip announced Dylan Kwasniewski as there new development driver he was making another powerful statement. The statement simple yet strong, a new Ganassi is coming and everyone needs to be ready. There is no doubt in my mind Kwasniewski will be the next drive of the 1 car, and when this happens Ganassi will be at the forefront of youth and talent. Kwasniewski still has a lot to learn as his rookie season in the Nationwide Series hasn’t exactly gone to plan by the way of finishes and team. Kwasniewski has a unique opportunity driving both the 31 for Turner Scott Motorsports as well as the 42 TSM Chevy when Larson cannot make races. To me this is an advantage for the young rookie and it will pay off when he takes the next step.

            Chip Ganassi Racing is slowly becoming the most youthful and talented team in NASCAR. When the time comes for Larson and Kwasinewski to take to the cup series as teammates, the raw talent and skill will flourish. It may not be an instant change, but none the less watch out. 

-Stephen Appell