No one, not even members of the Ford family, feel the warmth of that connection like the drivers and teams of NASCAR. And during a time when it would be easy for the winless teams to point fingers in frustration, the newfound brand pride has created a bond during a time when it has been needed most.



The day before his Charlotte conversation, Ford made his annual rounds to the Ford teams, including anchor team Roush Fenway Racing and a still-new addition to the fold that makes him grin just talking about it.



"It is so great to have Richard Petty Motorsports in the Ford family," he says, more than a little excited that The King of Stock Car Racing can now be seen walking the Cup garage with a blue oval on his belt buckle. "I have been around long enough to remember when Richard drove a Ford [1969, when Petty won nine races in a Torino Cobra]. Every time I get a chance to visit with Richard, it's like being a kid again. It reminds me that I am a race fan first and foremost."