I've been a MW fan since the late 80's and it's not easy being a Mikey fan. Everyone likes to slam him and I understand some of it but you've got to give the man a little credit - he's a sponsor magnet and he's one of the most recognizable Nascar personalities on television.
If anyone has read any of the articles about his shop, his team, and the vision they have and what they are trying to do - you wouldn't think this team will be a bust. I'm not saying Michael is the greatest driver but he's smarter than he lets on. His new shop will be right up there with Hendrick and Roush. I'm sure there will be plenty of growing pains in his organization but I look for MW to be on the Penske/Ganassi level of owners within 3 years.
As for the whole Toyota argument - I think it's a good thing for the sport. This year the only problem is that with the new Toyota teams and other start up's there will be several GOOD cars going home every week - and the competition will be even tighter. I'm not saying Nascar is rigged or anything but I refuse to believe that Nascar will allow Toyota to struggle mightily either. They will make rules adjustments to make sure Toyota runs well, even in it's Cup infancy. The first year in CTS the Toyota bunch wasn't impressive BUT Nascar made concessions for them and, just a few years into the deal, Toyota's are dominating the CTS.
As for the COT argument - yes, it does look different and yes it does have a "wing" instead of a spoiler but it's a good move. I don't care how good a car looks if the racing is better - for all I care they could drive cars that resembled 1982 Volkswagons if it promoted more passing and better racing. The COT is also a big step forward in safety - and if it can save drivers from having serious injuries or possible death - I'm all for it.
There was a COT "did you know" on Jayski last week and here are some highlights.....
Did you know NASCAR will pay for the rear wings used on the new Car of Tomorrow, then distribute them at the track and collect them after each race?
Did you know the COT, which is two inches taller and four inches wider than the current car, will fit inside the current haulers?
Did you know the inspection process at the track should be faster with the COT because of nine radio frequency IDs that will be installed on each chassis, allowing inspectors to verify its legitimacy electronically instead of manually?
Did you know the restrictor plate as we know it at Daytona and Talladega likely will become obsolete with the design of the COT engine package?
Did you know the COT looks more like the car on the street than the one currently on the track because the angles of the windows and headlights aren't nearly as severe?
Anyway, I don't see the COT as a negative - and if it does help improve the racing, increase driver safety, save the teams money in the long run, and help get rid of those stupid restrictor plates I'm all for it!