There have been times in the past when automobile manufacturers have moved in and out of NASCAR competition based upon either costs or rule changes but never has there been a time when a brand stepped out of line due to bankruptcy. Such is the dilemma facing Dodge’s parent company, Daimler-Chrysler, who recently filed for protection under Chapter 11.

The timing couldn’t be worse for Kurt Busch who presently occupies the number one position in the Sprint Cup Series driver standings, his Penske team, Gillett/Evernham and Richard Petty Motorsports. Everyone has been told by Dodge that it’s business as usual but you’ve got to think that in the back of their minds there’s a lot of doubt about what the future holds. What about engine and aero development? What about sponsorships? What about…? The list goes on. The situation isn’t much better on the GM side either, with plant closings and workers being laid off. How will that affect their participation in NASCAR?

There’s no point in re-hashing the reasons why things are the way they are because that’s already been done. What is important is how the proposed merger with Fiat will affect Dodge’s involvement in motorsports. Will there be a desire on behalf of the Italian automaker to continue fronting the cash necessary in light of the economic crisis or will a decision be made to pull the plug? That would trim the field to Ford, Chevy and Toyota. If GM decides to do the same, we’re looking at Ford and Toyota.

The fans look at this situation from a very different standpoint than the manufacturers: brand loyalties and variety vis-à-vis profit from sales. It’s always been this way and up until now they have been able to live next door to one another when times were good. Today that’s not the case because the bottom line was always in possession of the trump card. Let’s hope it doesn’t get thrown down.