France Optimistic As '07 Season Begins

Unfazed by declining TV ratings and empty seats at some races, Brian France offers an upbeat outlook on the state of NASCAR, touting Corporate America’s investment in the sport, the new promotional muscle brought by ESPN, and the quality of competition and drivers. Issues that still concern France are media coverage in major markets, which he says “we’re going to be working on,” and building a speedway in N.Y. Also on the expansion front, ISC is eyeing two sites for a new 75,000-seat facility in Denver, which France calls “a great sports market."

Oscar Night
LVCVA’s Rossi Ralenkotter calls hosting ’07 FIBA event “direct result of our partnership with the NBA.”

Feet Of Strength
Saints RB Reggie Bush inks dress sock deal, a rarity in the endorsement game.

Inquiring “Minds”
Super Bowl promos help CBS to primetime win last week.

Island Of The Blue Dolphins
Wayne Huizenga unapologetic over team’s latest ticket-price hike.

Center Console
NBA video game licensees activating heavily around All- Star Weekend in Las Vegas.

Clay Mates
Sonics prefer arena site in Renton, but funding gaps, other issues remain as obstacles.

Short & Sweet
Honda Classic joins PGA Tour stops building fan/hospitality areas around late-round par-3s.

All My Children
TaylorMade signs three-year grassroots marketing deal with China Golf Association.