NASCAR contemplating ’07 schedule changes

A new television package and concerns over attendance and TV ratings for some events could lead to a change in the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series schedule, with changes coming as early as 2007, some in the sport believe. NASCAR typically doesn't begin the process of signing sanctioning agreements and putting its schedule together for the following year until it has visited tracks on the current schedule. However, with a new eight-year agreement that includes Fox, Speed, TNT and ABC/ESPN partners beginning in 2007, NASCAR may consider shuffling some dates to improve both ratings and attendance figures. "I haven't heard anything yet," car owner Richard Childress said March 4, "but I wouldn't be surprised. "I think with the new TV package, you better be prepared for what may have to happen. I think that [the TV package] will dictate not only the time of the race on the schedule but where we may even go as well." The season-opening Daytona 500, which was broadcast on NBC, pulled in 37.2 million viewers and a record 11.3 household rating according to the network, making it the highest-rated NASCAR event in the sport's history. The following week's race in Fontana, Calif., however, registered a 7.4 rating, down from a 7.9 rating the previous year. Attendance for the California race, as well, appeared to be down. NASCAR Daily Scene