Toro Rosso tried to convince Juan Pablo Montoya to skip NASCAR, according to a source close to the former formula one winner.
The source was quoted by Spanish ‘Marca’ journalist Marco Canseco as admitting that Montoya, who left McLaren in mid 2006 to drive for Chip Ganassi’s NASCAR team, received an approach from the Faenza based squad.
“Yes, he received some interest from Toro Rosso,” the source reportedly said, “but at the moment (Juan Pablo) is like a kid in a candy store (in NASCAR).”
It is not known when Montoya was approached by the part Gerhard Berger-owned Toro Rosso team, but it has yet to name its 2007 driver lineup. The latest driver linked with a seat for 2007 is Tiago Monteiro, having lost his Spyker drive last week to rookie Adrian Sutil.
Champ Car champion Sebastien Bourdais, meanwhile, is in the frame for 2008.
The source said Montoya, 31, is far from regretting his decision to join the popular American series.
“He is completely focused on NASCAR and all they want him to do is drive,” the source added.
GMMF1
DailyF1News.com
