What happened: NASCAR chief executive Steve O'Donnell said Tom Cruise inquired about entering an ARCA race while working on Days of Thunder 2. O'Donnell indicated surprise at the request.

Why it matters: A race entry by the film's lead would bring national attention to ARCA's developmental level. Formal paperwork would show whether the conversation moves toward competition.

What to watch: Watch for any entry filing or schedule confirmation from ARCA officials.