I recall listeing in on Robby and PJ when PJ took over after the Montreal debacle:
"So we never discussed the montary compensation if I have a top 10 finish" - PJ
"Let's just worry about the race and we'll take care of everything later" - Robby
I was TICKED to hear that Robby was suspended the morning of the race while I was tailgating. PJ went on to finish in the mid 30's. Not a good day for RGM. Let's just hope that Travis doesn't damage the car in practice or qualifying and go from there...
Since you have asked three times now, I think the reasoning goes like this... TK qualifies mid pack. It's such a big track that everyone who is not wrecked will stay on lead lap and its a long way from 43rd to 20th or 15th. Also the crew has proven they can't gain spots on stops. Also a car practiced and set up by TK is a car that will suit TK. I have no idea if their driving styles would match up. Result is better finish and more owners points to gap Speed and Gilliland. Driver points are meaningless. Are we going to sell more sponsorships by being 32 in driver points? or 30th or 29th? Come on. They have no bearing. Will it happen? No, I suspect Robby wants to drive, thats what he does.
In reality, I think owner points are not a concern either. Gilliland is about out of money and Speed is a long way back. Noone else has all the attempts to be a threat even if they win races. Even if Speed goes on a tear, as he rises Andretti will drop. Best strategy is start Robby 43rd, hope for early caution so only 5 - 10 cars pit, then hope for long green run to use fuel and tire and adjustment advantage.
How would it hurt Robby to leave Travis in the car for a race?
It hurts the effort to get sponsors. Pittsburgh Paints is paying to sponsor Robby, not Travis. Potential sponsors want to see that the driver they signed up to sponsor plans on staying in the car, not letting a substitute take thier place.
We all appreciate Travis filling in for Robby, but really, he's getting a big benefit doing this already, and there's no need to give him an additional perk for it.
I have seen the crew pick up spots.....so to say they have proven they can't is flat out incorrect......Kvapil is the best availble driver to do this..........
that's another website......they talk about all the other drivers and rarely ever mention Robby Gordon...You might want to check that site out.........
I'm ok with speaking your mind....this is a Robby Gordon "fan site" and I'm not sure that last part is your cup of tea....
I guess my point was...from time to time..guys from the team have been known to take alook through the site, and on another site...the whole thing got shut down becuase people started well.....bashing the team. while I will agree that some stops haven't been good, more stops have been good. You post a comment basically saying the over the wall team sucks.......I don't think thats realistic nor neccessary
I am realastic and I dont wear rose colored glasses.......your taking pop shots at guys that work their ass's off and deserve better than your comments....if you want to start questioning qualifying or why they can't unload fast...I think you find the facts will back you up a little better...Ive spoke my peace now........
Kvapil is a good driver. But he doesn have anything near the talent of Robby. (You better be able to spell Robby's name right if your a member of this site.) He could get a decent Qual. spot but that would be just for the pit positition robby WILL start on sunday, period!