Carpentier to make NASCAR debut

The Canadian has been attempting to break into NASCAR since last summer. He will drive a Fitz Motorsports Dodge in the first NASCAR event to be held in his homeland.

Carpentier is set to participate in two of the events on the Montreal bill as his primary 2007 programme is in the Grand-Am sportscar series that supports the Busch round.

"I think running in both series on the same weekend will be a plus for me, even though the racing lines will not be quite the same in several turns," he said.

"However, this advantage shouldn't last forever as my opponents are all talented professionals and they won't take too much time to figure out the track.

"The competition will be tough, but I do believe that I will be competitive and that the team and I will quickly adjust the car to my liking."

Busch Series director Joe Balash believes Carpentier's appearance is a massive boost to the race. The Canadian has a large following in Montreal, and has raced on the track in Champ Car.

"With the addition of Patrick to the race, it continues to add that hometown feel to the event," Balash said.

"It also rounds out what will be a star-studded international field and should make this one of the most exciting NASCAR Busch Series road course events."