7-Eleven to Jeff Gordon, Hendrick Motorsports?

Well this is interesting.

It was reported this week that 7-Eleven would not return in 2011 to sponsor Tony Kannan in the IndyCar Series. Instead the package would move over to Andretti teammate Danica Patrick.

Most curious is that SI’s Bruce Martin is reporting that 7-Eleven is reportedly interested in becoming Jeff Gordon’s primary sponsor in 2011.

This makes a lot of sense for both drivers.

Patrick is affiliated with Hendrick Motorsports in NASCAR and thus would be a perfect relationship to transfer from Gordon onto Patrick when she makes her big step to Sprint Cup, presumably in 2013, when her latest Andretti deal ends.

For Gordon, the four-time champion would have a viable partner to finish his career with and could still keep Dupont in a limited role in 2011 for historical value. 7-Eleven would market both Gordon and the sport to a different demographic than Dupont ever could and Gordon’s brand will be stronger as a result.

Having Danica take over Gordon’s colors lends an air of credibility to the IndyCar star and should help build Patrick up to the fans of her new employer.

7-Eleven makes a ton of sense for all parties involved. Hendrick Motorsports must jump on this, should there be any truth to the opportunity.

Matt Weaver is the Sports Editor for the Vanguard (USA) and can be reached at jmatthewweaver(at)aol.com