Papis to land Cup ride

UPDATE This rumor is upgraded to 'fact' today. Road-racing specialist Max Papis, who has North American victories in Indy cars and sports cars on his resume, will attempt to make his Nextel Cup debut next month at Watkins Glen International.

Max Papis isn't the first open-wheel driver to announce he's interested in NASCAR. But he could become the third Italian-born driver to compete in the Nextel Cup Series.

Papis will drive the No. 78 Chevrolet fielded by Furniture Row Racing that has attempted every event this season, driven primarily by Kenny Wallace.

07/26/06 Besides his NASCAR Busch ride announced earlier today, AutoRacing1.com sources tell us that a NASCAR Nextel Cup deal will soon be announced for him at The Glen as well.