Stewart would be interested in signing Patrick

[May 26, 2011]  CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) -- Tony Stewart says he'd be interested in signing Danica Patrick if she moves to NASCAR's top series.

Stewart is the owner of Stewart-Haas Racing, and is always looking for opportunities to grow the team from two to four cars. He's given Patrick advice during her trial period in NASCAR, and moving full-time from IndyCar is a possibility when her contract ends later this year.

Stewart said Wednesday he's not had talks with Patrick about driving for SHR. He also said he would not field a Nationwide Series team for Patrick.

She's running a limited schedule for the second year for JR Motorsports in the Nationwide Series. She's said at Indianapolis Motor Speedway this month she's not decided what she wants to do next season.

[Associated Press; By JENNA FRYER]

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