Sprint Nextel Statement Regarding Changes to Chase for the NEXTEL Cup

HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. ¯ January 22, 2006 ¯ Statement from Dean Kessel, director of NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series marketing for Sprint Nextel, regarding changes to the Chase for the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup:

"Sprint Nextel completely supports NASCAR's decision to find a better balance between consistency and winning in the Chase for the NASCAR NEXTEL Cup. The addition of two drivers in the Chase, the five extra points for winning races and the seeding of drivers based on race wins will help strike that balance and make the sport more captivating for the fans. We are looking forward to seeing which 12 drivers earn a berth in the Chase this year and, of course, crowning the 2007 NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series Champion at the end of the season."