Vickers to return to Inside Nextel Cup in '06

Dave Despain will once again climb into the host's chair for SPEED's popular Monday night program Inside Nextel Cup, beginning Feb. 13 at 7 p.m. ET. Joining Despain, will be veteran drivers Michael Waltrip and Kenny Schrader, both in new rides for 2006.

Brian Vickers, the Hendrick Motorsports driver who joined the show late last season, will return for 20 shows in 2006.

"I think 2006 should be exciting for everyone -- especially the fans of Inside Nextel Cup," said Vickers, the youngest national series champion in NASCAR history.

"Kenny [Schrader] and Michael [Waltrip] are driving for new teams, the GMAC Racing team and I are ready and we're all optimistic about a new season. I've gained some valuable experience working with them and Dave [Despain] on the set, so hopefully I'll pass the SPEED rookie stripe to someone else and we'll bring viewers even more insight and entertainment.

"I appreciate the opportunity they've presented by welcoming me back to the program."

Chris Long, VP of Studio Production for SPEED, appreciates Vickers' efforts.

"It took a lot of courage for Brian to step onto a show that had changed for the first time in 10 years last year," said Chris Long, VP of Studio Production for SPEED. "We made some aggressive changes to a fan favorite SPEED show midway through the year and Brian did a great job blending in with the team. We're thrilled to have him back for 20 shows in 2006."