Announcements coming, the ’new’ Chase for one

UPDATE This rumor is upgraded to 'fact' with today's announcement by NASCAR that 12 drivers will qualify for the Chase, up from 10, and race winners throughout the year will get 5 additional points for each race win, and 10 more during the Chase itself.

01/22/07 More than 200 print and electronic media members from 22 states and as far away as Germany are registered to participate in the Jan. 22-25 Nextel Cup Media Tour hosted by Lowe's Motor Speedway. The largest off-season media event in Nextel Cup racing, the 24th edition of this annual season preview begins Monday afternoon, Jan. 22, and continues through Thursday afternoon, Jan. 25. With support from sponsors Nextel and NASCAR, the Media Tour gives registered participants the opportunity to tour race shops; meet with drivers, crew chiefs and team owners; and discuss the latest developments and news with motorsports industry leaders. Many Nextel Cup teams scheduled to host Media Tour events. The Media Tour will also make its annual visit to the NASCAR Research and Development Center where officials are expected to make several announcements. A groundbreaking ceremony for the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte is also part of the schedule – Thursday, Jan 25th. LMS PR