NASCAR hails Montoya switch

Montoya is the first active driver in Formula One history to leave the open-wheel premiere series for a full-time racing career in the North American stock car series.

And while there had been a few drivers in the past who participated in Grand Prix racing as well as in stock car racing - such as Mario Andretti, Dan Gurney and even Jim Clark - there has not been any driver in the past three decades to have done so.

"Juan Pablo Montoya's entry into NASCAR is historic," Helton said today, in reaction to the news that the Colombian has signed a multi-year deal with Chip Ganassi Racing.

"It encompasses all the things that are important to NASCAR, the things that we've worked very hard to establish.

"Juan Pablo is someone who touches not only the Hispanic fan base, but also is a driver with an international following.

"NASCAR has had success with drivers from other racing backgrounds who have come to NASCAR and done well, but to have Juan Pablo say, 'I want to compete here,' is historic."

Joining Helton in welcoming Montoya to the series was former Cup champion Jeff Gordon, who in June 2003 switched cars with Montoya at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

"It's a great thing for the sport to have such a world-class driver want to compete," Gordon said in a statement today.

"I welcome him and respect him for accepting the challenge."