NASCAR Mailbag - Thoughts about Red Horse shutting down to racing at Indy

1. I don't understand all the talk about plates at Indianapolis. The racing at that track is horrendous and has been since they moved the race from Raceway Park. If there is any hope for that race, it needs to return to the short track there. What are the chances of that happening in your opinion? - From Danny

There is little chance the Xfinity race will ever return to IRP for two reasons - the track couldn't afford the sanctioning fee and the facility does not have the infrastructure to adequately host functions for series's sponsors. There is a better chance of Trucks running at IRP than Xfinity and even that is very remote and wouldn't happen anytime soon.

2. Red Horse Racing shut down this week. What do you think the problem is with an established team being forced out of the sport? - From Mike

Red Horse's problem was a lack of sponsorship. If it were not for the owner's willingness to fund the organization himself the past year-and-a-half, it likely would have shut down long ago. Red Horse has been a competitive team in recent seasons but has been unable to secure sponsors for its most recent drivers, Timothy Peters and Brett Moffitt.

3. The 2018 schedule is out and do you think it will get fans more excited about the Monster Energy Series playoffs? - From Sharon

I hope so. It has me more excited since we're actually changing up the playoff races in a significant fashion for the first time since the Chase was created in 2004. NASCAR now has an addition road course and short track in the playoffs - two of the most popular types of races with fans. It will be interesting to see if the change of venues gives a better opportunity to win in the final 10 races.

4. How is Aric Almirola doing in his recovery? - From William

Almirola is progressing nicely but it will be a slow process. He does not require a back brace and can walk around on his own but his particular injury (T5 fracture) is a painful one. Expect him to miss eight to 12 weeks minimum before returning to his Richard Petty Motorsports ride.

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