There was much discussion about this in the tv shows leading up to the Richmond races. NASCAR does not retire numbers, so the number "3" is available for use, it's just that no team has requested it. This is likely a sign of respect for the man who died driving the number 3 cup car, namely Dale Earnhardt, Sr. I think it is fitting that Junior will drive the number 3 in the Nationwide Series. I hope he drives the number 3 to victory lane to fully honor his father.
Am I hoping for too much?