Stewart branches out in 2001.

Winston Cup front-runner Tony Stewart has become the newest team-owner in the hectic World of Outlaws category, which the eight time WC race winner originally cut his teeth in.

Stewart announced the formation of Tony Stewart Motorsports at the same conference in Las Vegas where Winston Cup rival Jerry Nadeau unveiled new sponsorship for his 2001 WC campaign and the Indiana native is hoping that this new venture could spring up the 'next Tony Stewart' in years to come.

For TSR's maiden season, driving duties in the immensely popular series will be undertaken by Danny Lasoski, a much respected figure in Sprint Cars and Champion of the 1998 Knoxville finals.

Lasoski was understandably thrilled to be given what has instantly become one of the most prized seats in WoO such is Stewart's reputation in the category and has worked closely with the driver of the #20 Home Depot Pontiac in setting up an outfit that will be competitive right from the off.

"I have always been blessed throughout my racing career to have the support of great people and have enjoyed great success as a result," said Lasoski. "But Tony is giving me the ability to go to the head of the class."

A sponsorship deal with Indiana based company Hamm American is already in place and most of the crew have already been hired giving the team plenty of time to prepare for the 2001 season.