NASCAR is very close to announcing a major deal with a long-time sponsor


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Goodyear, one of NASCAR's oldest sponsors, is on the verge of announcing a new deal with the sport.

The manufacturer based out of Akron, OH began its relationship with NASCAR in 1954 and has been the sole supplier of tires for its top three series' since 1997, according to NASCAR.com

"We are very close to being able to make an announcement," Goodyear's general manager of worldwide racing, Stu Grant said. "Hopefully, soon. Hopefully, very soon. Considering that we've tested for 2018 and we're in the middle of making tires for Daytona, we anticipate being around next year."

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In 2011, Goodyear signed a five-year extension that will expire at the end of the year. Grant is a 45-year veteran of the NASCAR garage and has been excited with the the action that has been provided on the track in 2017, according to motorsport.com.

"I've seen a lot of racing, but I believe in 2017, the on-track racing has been some of the best I've ever seen," said Grant. "I like the idea of the lower downforce and how it has helped the car."

"I know the drivers want the cars to be easier to drive, but the lower downforce makes the cars harder to drive, and I think that's a good thing," he said. "It gives you the comers and goers, if your car is a little bit off, you're not going to be able to run up front like you have before."

Goodyear has been working with NASCAR and the race teams in an effort to improve their product on a regular basis.

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"We have had great communication with NASCAR on the competition side, the R&D side, the owners, the drivers," said Grant. "Just a lot of good dialogue, and I think the on-track product has been really good this year."

It should only be a matter of time before the details of the new deal are announced.