Motorsport: Whincup considered Nascar move

Jamie Whincup has unfinished business in V8 Supercars, and won't be shifting to Nascar. Photo / Getty Images

SYDNEY - Defending V8 Supercar champion Jamie Whincup says he considered leaving Australia and competing in the NASCAR series in the United States, but still has plenty to achieve at home.

Whincup and his team-mate Craig Lowndes have re-signed with Team Vodafone for three for more years.

Vodafone Hutchison Australia has announced it has renewed its sponsorship of the team until at least the end of 2012.

Whincup is making a strong defence of his title, leading the standings after the most recent round in Townsville.

Asked how close he came to joining the NASCAR series, Whincup said: "I would say reasonably.

"I've still got that ambition too, and I've still got a little bit of jealously in that most of my mates have driven overseas.

"I've seen Marcos (Ambrose) transition from V8 Supercars to NASCAR.

"But when I look at all the facts and weigh up all the options, I'm positive I've made the right decision to stay with one of the best teams in the category ... and the opportunity to drive with my mate Lowndesy for another three years, that was the right call."

Lowndes, who is running fourth in the championship, says he would love to see Whincup have a crack at NASCAR at some stage.

The V8 Supercar series continues at Sandown next week.

- AAP