As I expected, Nick Heidfeld has been named to team with Mark Webber at Williams in this years World Championship. The word is that engine maker BMW had strong influence in the decision as Heidfeld is German. This is interesting as one of the teams' top sponsors, Petrobras, the Brazilian national oil company, was keen to have Antonio Pizzonia, a Brazilian in the seat.

This leads to the speculation that Pizzonia may indeed look to the CCWS for a ride. This has to have the beleaguered series salivating. Although Pizzonia may not be a household name in America, getting a guy who performed admirably in Ralfies absence last season at Williams has to be considered a feather in their cap.

And those looking for a "household name" won't really find any unless they look to NASCAR. Times change.

Anyhow, the CCWS may also be getting Christiano DaMatta back. Reports that other name drivers may also be looking to America has to help. Although some of those may end up in the IRL.

Speaking of the IRL, Mo Nunn has sold his equipment to Ron Hemelgarn who will return to the track this year in the IRL. Nunn, who last season campaigned Tora Takagi, had won a couple of races in the IRL, but last season was a disaster. Hemelgarn is expected to run Paul Dana in the series.

With the Daytona 500 just three weeks away, the teams head to Las Vegas for practice this week. I'll be doing a NASCAR season preview later this week.

God it is time for some racing!!