Michigan International Speedway: June 16, 2017, 2:00 pm
Friday is press conference day at Michigan International Speedway. Select drivers visit the media center for a sit-down with the working press. Highlights include last week’s winner at Pocono. A former MIS winner. A seven-time champion. And a local young-gun from Byron. Given the home-track significance to Ford and Chevy, MIS is often the site of big announcements. Today was no different.
The Wood Brothers and Ryan Blaney
Last week’s Monster Energy Cup win at Pocono was a career first for Ryan Blaney. For his team, the iconic Wood Brothers, it was career win 99. Can Blaney go back-to-back this week at MIS? If so Bill Ford will knight him the Prince of NASCAR. While Glen and Leonard Wood may adopt him.
Brett Wheatley, Executive Director of North America for Ford Customer Service Division joined in with a big announcement. Omnicraft, a companion to the Motorcraft brand, will sponsor Blaney for the FireKeeper’s Casino 400. 
According to Wheatley, “Omnicraft is Ford’s first new brand in nearly 50 years.” Now regardless of the make of vehicle. Car owners can get the same Motorcraft quality parts for their Chevrolet, Toyota, Volkswagen, or other vehicle makes. Parts are available through local dealers. With the brand expanding to parts stores and soon, independent garages.
Jimmie Johnson Press Conference
The seven-time Cup Series Champion had his own news to share. Johnson just signed a three-year extension with Hendrick’s Motorsports. The contract includes Lowes continuing as the sponsor for the number 48 car.
Joey Logano Press Conference
Joey Logano took a fair amount of good ribbing from the local media. He took offense at being excluded from the young-gun contingent. The Team Penske Driver is 27 year’s old, with nine years of Cup experience. Guess that makes him middle-age in the business of stock car racing.
Erik Jones Press Conference
Byron, Michigan native Erik Jones addressed the media in his home state. Jones placed third last week at Pocono. A career best for the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series rookie. Erik addressed the home-track advantage and pressures to win. He also responded to questions about his family and their sponsorship of the Michigan Takes Flight scholarship program.
