Papis looking for NASCAR gig

UPDATE From Miami we are getting reports that Max Papis is hoping to land a Busch Series ride with either Hendrick or PPI, with PPI being more likely. He has made friends with Earnhardt Jr. and apparently he is helping open some doors for Papis. Mark C. 11/07/04 Rolex Sports Car champion Max Papis was hanging out behind Jimmie Johnson's hauler after yesterday's final Nextel Cup practice. Papis, who clinched this year's title with co-driver Scott Pruett by winning the season finale at California Speedway last week, would like to secure a Busch Series ride and has tested Dodges with Evernham Motorsports. "I feel very comfortable every time I come to a Cup race," said the Italian, who won in CART driving for Bobby Rahal. "I'm a European, but I feel American in my heart. It's not about the race cars, it's about the people you have around. People have adopted me here." Richmond Times Dispatch