Auto Racing: Title contenders still have hope

To get back into contention for the Nextel Cup title, drivers in the back of the standings need a near-perfect performance and a collapse from the competition.

But it’s wishful thinking that series champions Jeff Gordon, Jimmie Johnson, Tony Stewart and Co. will all simultaneously combust and open the door for the stragglers.

Or is it? Johnson wrecked his lightning-fast car in Saturday’s final practice and the defending series champion had to pull out his backup. The accident cost him the pole position for today’s race at Kansas Speedway in Kansas City, Kan., and he’ll now start at the back of the field.

Stewart, meanwhile, cursed on live TV and NASCAR officials were reviewing tape to determine if any action will be taken. The volatile driver was docked points once already this season for swearing.

It comes just days after contender Carl Edwards was docked 25 points because last week’s race-winning car failed inspection, and gives hope to the rest of the Chase for the championship field.

Busch Series

A penalty for speeding on pit road sent Kyle Busch to the back of the pack. All he did after that – with the help of a lot of yellow flags – was pass everyone else on the track at Kansas City, Kan.

Busch slipped inside of Matt Kenseth with just more than 17 laps to go, then held off Kenseth’s challenges after a late restart to win the Busch Series race at Kansas Speedway.

Busch’s car failed the postrace inspection because the intake manifold did not meet NASCAR specifications. Penalties will be announced next week.

Formula One

Lewis Hamilton won the pole for the Formula One Japanese Grand Prix in the rain and fog at Oyama, Japan, beating McLaren teammate and rival Fernando Alonso with a fastest time of 1 minute, 25.368 seconds.

NHRA pioneer Parks dies at 94

Wally Parks, an automobile enthusiast who founded the National Hot Rod Association and helped turn drag racing into a legitimate sport, died Friday at Burbank, Calif. He was 94.