Overton and Rice Score Dramatic Last-Lap Wins Friday Night at Florence

Overton and Rice Score Dramatic Last-Lap Wins Friday Night at Florence

Overton and Rice Score Dramatic Last-Lap Wins Friday Night at Florence

WALTON, KY (August 7, 2026) – Brandon Overton and Josh Rice used last-lap passes to win their respective 25-lap preliminary features for the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series on Friday night at Florence Speedway. Overton’s first series win since last May nearly slipped away when Mike Marlar got by him as they headed to the white flag. Overton fought back, storming past Marlar to regain the lead and taking the checkered flag by a scant 0.192 seconds. Hudson O’Neal finished third, with Jimmy Owens and Adam Stricker completing the top five in the first feature. Rice’s win also featured a dramatic last-lap finish. He got by Bobby Pierce as the two took the white flag, making a daring move for the lead that paid off as he held off Pierce for the win. Zack Dohm was third, with Dan Ebert and Devin Moran rounding out the top five in the second 25-lap feature. In Wieland Victory Lane for the 20th time in his career, Overton, an Evans, Georgia, native who sits fourth in the championship standings, was relieved to finally claim his first series win in more than a year. “I said, oh no, not again. I was fine early on, and those guys got to racing behind, and all I can say is hats off to Josh King. I look forward to coming here every year, and this is why: you can race all over it. Obviously, it’s hard to leave because you don’t know where everybody else is. It’s $6,000 to win and they’re racing like it’s the Daytona 500. I don’t expect anything less. It was a fun race with Mikey, and man, they drive so hard, and we will take them any way we can. It was fun, but my heart did sink when Mikey came sliding by me. I was just doing the best I could. It may be just a prelim night, but it’s a shot in the arm for us.” Marlar, who won a preliminary feature on Thursday night, came close to becoming the first driver to win two races this week. “It was fun all the way around. I had a little bit of a messed-up tire deal there. We went and changed a tire and couldn’t get the lug nut off of it, so I was struggling with my steering, but it’s all right. It was a fun race, and I had a little bit of a cushion, so I could steer on that just fine. Probably the part that hurt me was the corner steering, and I didn’t want to hit him (Overton) or something when I turned under him.” O’Neal came from 11th to round out the Big River Steel Podium in third in the first feature. “I had the best seat in the house. These guys were going at it. I really thought I was in the best spot whenever they were going down into three, and Mikey had a small run. I thought he was going in there to slide him, and I was hoping they would rub a little bit and I would sneak in there and get one.” The winner’s Scott and Jason Riggs/Riggs Motorsports Longhorn Chassis is powered by Clements Racing Engines and sponsored by Budweiser, Garnto Southern, Riggs Fiber, Muscle Factory, Harco Construction, Big Dog Stump and Tree, and R.W. Powell Construction. Completing the top 10 in the first feature were Carson Ferguson, Ricky Thornton Jr., Dillon McCowan, Shannon Babb, and Ryan Montgomery.In the second $6,000-to-win preliminary feature, current LOLMDS points leader Brandon Sheppard took the lead at the start over Bobby Pierce and held it until Pierce passed him for the top spot on lap 10. Rice then got by Sheppard for second. With three laps to go, Pierce, Rice, Sheppard, and Dohm were all battling for the lead when Sheppard suffered a flat tire, forcing him to make a pit stop. On the final restart, Pierce led the field to the white flag, but Rice threw a slider entering turn one to take the lead. He held his line into turn three and, despite banging the cushion hard in turn four, held on for the win. In Wieland Victory Lane for the second time this year and the fourth time in his career, the two-time Ralph Latham Memorial winner set his sights on his first Sunoco Race Fuels North-South 100 win on Saturday night. “I know Bobby (Pierce) won three of these North-South races in a row, but this is Rice Brothers, y’all. I tried that slider line right before the caution, and I closed up probably six car lengths. I don’t know if Bob (Pierce) told him that was good or not. He was messing my air really bad, and I finally just hit it right. I don’t know how clean it was; it was time to throw it. Man, what a hot rod. I can’t thank Mark Richards enough. It’s crazy to come out here and be on the podium and then win the first weekend out. This place is so darn cool to run good at. I have won everything here except the Big One, and we will give it our best shot tomorrow night.” Pierce, who will be looking for his fifth North-South 100 victory on Saturday night, led 14 laps and crossed the finish line 0.252 seconds behind Rice. “I felt like I didn’t get great off of four, and then I went to protect the slider if someone was there in one, and then I hit that hole. But all in all, I think the track was really good. They gave us lots of room to race on and gave us a last-lap pass in both features, so it was a really good track. I think we made a lot of good gains with the car throughout the weekend so far. We’ve learned a lot more, and I think the more we can apply for tomorrow, the better.” Dohm earned his first Big River Steel Podium finish of the year with the series, finishing a close third. “I thought I was sitting pretty. I knew what tires everybody had on, and it seems like those 3s fade after a caution. So I figured Josh would make a run on Bobby, and I was hoping they would get a little more aggressive. I thought even on that last lap Bobby was going to drive back up beside him and they both would go up the hill, but Josh had him cleared too much. Third is good. We have had just a terrible weekend. We had a transmission go out and a bent spindle when we hit the wall before qualifying yesterday, and it ruined my lap. But in the features, we have passed cars, and that’s what it’s all about.” The winner’s James Rattliff/JRR Motorsports Rocket Chassis is powered by a Vic Hill Racing Engine and sponsored by Glenwood Electric, Rice Excavating and Plumbing, Chain Locker, Cheap Chevrolet, Sunoco Race Fuels, BC Fluid Power, MGL Auto Sales, Berea Collision, Lonkard Construction, JRR Trucking, JRR Motor Sales, Jessie Insurance Agency, Keltner Contracting, Big Al’s Guns and Outdoor, and The KAG. Completing the top 10 in the second feature were Tyler Erb, Jason Jameson, Justin Rattliff, Kaede Loudy, and Max Blair. Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series Race Summary 44th Annual Sunoco North/South 100 Presented by Lucas Oil | Night 2Friday, August 7, 2026Florence Speedway | Union, KY Group A Results: Allstar Performance Time TrialsFast Time Group A: Michael Leach | 15.984 seconds (overall) Penske Shocks Heat Race #A11 Finish (8 Laps, Top 6 Transfer): 1. 76-Brandon Overton[5]; 2. 20O-Jimmy Owens[4]; 3. 20RT-Ricky Thornton Jr[2]; 4. 09-Michael Leach[1]; 5. 79-Donald McIntosh[6]; 6. 49-Jonathan Davenport[3]; 7. 18L-Trevor Landrum[7]; 8. 9-Josh Dietz[8]; 9. 21-Kirk Phillips[9]; 10. H22-Brandon Hardgrove[10] Summit Racing Products Heat Race #A-2 Finish (8 Laps, Top 6 Transfer): 1. 157-Mike Marlar[1]; 2. 93F-Carson Ferguson[4]; 3. 5-Drake Troutman[3]; 4. 71-Hudson O’Neal[6]; 5. 12M-Ryan Montgomery[7]; 6. 3S-Brian Shirley[2]; 7. 0-Jake O’Neil[9]; 8. 18-Shannon Babb[5]; 9. D48-Derek Groomer[8] Cool-It Thermo-Tec Heat Race #A-3 Finish (8 Laps, Top 6 Transfer): 1. 22F-Chris Ferguson[1]; 2. C7-Adam Stricker[2]; 3. 17SS-Brenden Smith[3]; 4. 40B-Kyle Bronson[7]; 5. 5N-Dustin Nobbe[5]; 6. 8-Dillon McCowan[4]; 7. 49G-Billy Green[8]; 8. 18S-Quade Schoonover[9]; 9. 93-Devin Gilpin[6] Fast Shafts B-Main Group A Finish (10 Laps, Top 6 Transfer): 1. 0-Jake O’Neil[2]; 2. 18L-Trevor Landrum[1]; 3. 18-Shannon Babb[5]; 4. 49G-Billy Green[3]; 5. D48-Derek Groomer[8]; 6. 93-Devin Gilpin[9]; 7. 21-Kirk Phillips[7]; 8. H22-Brandon Hardgrove[10]; 9. 9-Josh Dietz[4]; 10. 18S-Quade Schoonover[6] 44th Annual Sunoco North/South 100 Presented by Lucas Oil Group A – Feature Finish (25 Laps):Pos – Start – Car # – Competitor – Hometown – Earnings1 – 1 – 76 – Brandon Overton – Evans, GA – $6,0002 – 2 – 157 – Mike Marlar – Winfield, TN – $3,0003 – 11 – 71 – Hudson O’Neal – Martinsville, IN – $2,0004 – 4 – 20O – Jimmy Owens – Newport, TN – $1,2505 – 6 – C7 – Adam Stricker – Batavia, OH – $1,0006 – 5 – 93F – Carson Ferguson – Lincolnton, NC – $9007 – 7 – 20RT – Ricky Thornton Jr – Chandler, AZ – $8508 – 18 – 8 – Dillon McCowan – Urbana, MO – $8009 – 21 – 18 – Shannon Babb – Moweaqua, IL – $75010 – 14 – 12M – Ryan Montgomery – Fairmont, WV – $70011 – 12 – 40B – Kyle Bronson – Brandon, FL – $65012 – 20 – 18L – Trevor Landrum – Florence, KY – $60013 – 17 – 3s – Brian Shirley – Chatham, IL – $55014 – 16 – 49 – Jonathan Davenport – Blairsville, GA – $50015 – 13 – 79 – Donald McIntosh – Dawsonville, GA – $50016 – 9 – 17SS – Brenden Smith – Dade City, FL – $50017 – 24 – 93 – Devin Gilpin – Columbus, IN – $50018 – 19 – 0 – Jake O’Neil – Tucson, AZ – $50019 – 8 – 5 – Drake Troutman – Hyndman, PA – $50020 – 15 – 5N – Dustin Nobbe – Batesville, IN – $50021 – 22 – 49G – Billy Green – Walton, KY – $50022 – 23 – D48 – Derek Groomer – Bloomington, IN – $50023 – 3 – 22F – Chris Ferguson – Mt. Holly, NC – $50024 – 10 – 9 – Michael Leach – Sun River, MT – $500 Group A Race Statistics  Entrants: 56Bilstein Shocks Pole Sitter: Brandon OvertonMD3 Lap Leaders: Brandon Overton (Laps 1-23); Mike Marlar (Lap 24); Brandon Overton (Lap 25)Hellraizer Jacks Halfway Leader: Brandon OvertonWieland Feature Winner: Brandon OvertonMargin of Victory: 0.190 secondsHellraizer Jacks Cautions: Michael Leach (Lap 1); Donald McIntosh (Lap 3); Jake O’Neil (Lap 18); Drake Troutman (Lap 23)MyRacePass Series Provisional: n/aFast Time Provisional: n/aEmergency Provisionals: n/aTrack Provisional: n/aBig River Steel Podium Top 3: Brandon Overton, Mike Marlar, Hudson O’NealPenske Shocks Top 5: Brandon Overton, Mike Marlar, Hudson O’Neal, Jimmy Owens, Adam StrickerBehrent’s One-Lap-to-Go Top 3: Mike Marlar, Brandon Overton, Hudson O’NealPEM 4th Place Feature: Jimmy OwensDiversified Machine 5th Place Feature: Adam StrickerWilwood Brakes 7th Place Feature: Ricky Thornton, Jr.Wehrs Machine 11th Place Feature: Kyle BronsonVelocity Manufacturing 13th Place Feature: Brian ShirleyXS Power Batteries 15th Place Feature: Donald McIntoshHoker Trucking Hard Charger of the Race: Shannon Babb (Advanced 12 positions)MD3 Most Laps Led: Brandon Overton (24 Laps)Sunoco Race Fuels Race for Gas Highest Finisher: Hudson O’NealMidwest Sheet Metal Spoiler Challenge Point Leader: Brandon SheppardO’Reilly Auto Parts Rookie of the Race: n/aPro Fabrication Headers Fastest Lap of the Race: Brandon Overton | Lap 2 | 16.748 secondsFK Rod Ends Hard Luck Award: Michael LeachVictory Fuel Power Move of the Race: Mike MarlarOuterwears Crew Chief of the Race: Ryder CantilloARP Engine Builder of the Race: Clements Race EnginesMiller Welders Chassis Builder of the Race: Longhorn ChassisDirt Draft Fastest in Hot Laps: Jonathan Davenport | 16.116 secondsTime of Race: 24 minutes 18 seconds Group B Results: Allstar Performance Time TrialsFast Time Group B: Brandon Sheppard | 16.155 seconds Simpson Race Products Heat Race #B-4 Finish (8 Laps, Top 6 Transfer): 1. 1-Brandon Sheppard[1]; 2. 11-Josh Rice[2]; 3. 93L-Cory Lawler[9]; 4. T1-Todd Morrow[3]; 5. 111-Max Blair[10]; 6. 12J-Jason Jameson[6]; 7. 22-Daniel Hilsabeck[7]; 8. 11M-Michael Chilton[5]; 9. 49M-Luke Morey[4]; 10. 7S-Justin Smith[8] MyRacePass Heat Race #B1-5 Finish (8 Laps, Top 6 Transfer): 1. 32-Bobby Pierce[2]; 2. 17D-Zack Dohm[6]; 3. 99-Devin Moran[1]; 4. 16-Justin Rattliff[8]; 5. 4G-Kody Evans[4]; 6. 6-Clay Harris[5]; 7. 31-Tyler Millwood[7]; 8. T8-Steve Banal[9]; 9. 58-Garrett Alberson[3] Lucas Oil Heat Race #B-6 Finish (8 Laps, Top 6 Transfer): 1. 60-Dan Ebert[1]; 2. 1T-Tyler Erb[2]; 3. 13-Dallon Murty[3]; 4. 126-Kaede Loudy[4]; 5. 17SR-Brody Smith[7]; 6. 81F-Jadon Frame[5]; 7. 317-Blake Creech[8]; 8. 99JR-Frank Heckenast Jr[6]; 9. 6C-Calvin Carlton[9] UNOH B-Main Group B Finish (10 Laps, Top 6 Transfer): 1. 22-Daniel Hilsabeck[1]; 2. 58-Garrett Alberson[8]; 3. 11M-Michael Chilton[4]; 4. 317-Blake Creech[3]; 5. 99JR-Frank Heckenast Jr[6]; 6. 7S-Justin Smith[10]; 7. T8-Steve Banal[5]; 8. 49M-Luke Morey[7]; 9. 6C-Calvin Carlton[9]; 10. 31-Tyler Millwood[2] 44th Annual Sunoco North/South 100 Presented by Lucas Oil Group B – Feature Finish (25 Laps):Pos – Start – Car # – Competitor – Hometown – Earnings1 – 4 – 11 – Josh Rice – Crittenden, KY – $6,0002 – 2 – 32 – Bobby Pierce – Oakwood, IL – $3,0003 – 5 – 17D – Zack Dohm – Cross Lanes, WV – $2,0004 – 3 – 60 – Dan Ebert – Lake Shore, MN – $1,2505 – 8 – 99 – Devin Moran – Dresden, OH – $1,0006 – 6 – 1T – Tyler Erb – New Waverly, TX – $9007 – 16 – 12J – Jason Jameson – Lawrenceburg, IN – $8508 – 11 – 16 – Justin Rattliff – Campbellsville, KY – $8009 – 12 – 126 – Kaede Loudy – Rogersville, TN – $75010 – 13 – 111 – Max Blair – Centerville, PA – $70011 – 10 – T1 – Todd Morrow – Penton, AL – $65012 – 18 – 81F – Jadon Frame – Winchester, TN – $60013 – 9 – 13 – Dallon Murty – Chelsea, IA – $55014 – 20 – 58 – Garrett Alberson – Las Cruces, NM – $50015 – 19 – 22 – Daniel Hilsabeck – Earlham, IA – $50016 – 1 – 1 – Brandon Sheppard – New Berlin, IL – $50017 – 17 – 6 – Clay Harris – Jupiter, FL – $50018 – 23 – 99JR – Frank Heckenast, Jr. – Frankfort, IL – $50019 – 22 – 317 – Blake Creech – Richmond, IN – $50020 – 7 – 93L – Cory Lawler – Hanover, PA – $50021 – 24 – 7S – Justin Smith – Barbourville, KY – $50022 – 21 – 11M – Michael Chilton – Salvisa, KY – $50023 – 15 – 17SR – Brody Smith – Dade City, FL – $50024 – 14 – 4G – Kody Evans – Camden, OH – $500 Group B Race Statistics  Entrants: 56Bilstein Shocks Pole Sitter: Brandon SheppardMD3 Lap Leaders: Brandon Sheppard (Laps 1-10); Bobby Pierce (Laps 11-24); Josh Rice (Lap 25)Hellraizer Jacks Halfway Leader: Bobby PierceWieland Feature Winner: Josh RiceMargin of Victory: 0.252 secondsHellraizer Jacks Cautions: Cory Lawler (Lap 22)MyRacePass Series Provisional: n/aFast Time Provisional: n/aEmergency Provisionals: n/aTrack Provisional: n/aBig River Steel Podium Top 3: Josh Rice, Bobby Pierce, Zack DohmPenske Shocks Top 5: Josh Rice, Bobby Pierce, Zack Dohm, Dan Ebert, Devin MoranBehrent’s One-Lap-to-Go Top 3: Bobby Pierce, Josh Rice, Zack DohmPEM 4th Place Feature: Dan EbertDiversified Machine 5th Place Feature: Devin MoranWilwood Brakes 7th Place Feature: Jason JamesonWehrs Machine 11th Place Feature: Todd MorrowVelocity Manufacturing 13th Place Feature: Dallon MurtyXS Power Batteries 15th Place Feature: Daniel HilsabeckHoker Trucking Hard Charger of the Race: Jason Jameson (Advanced 9 positions)MD3 Most Laps Led: Bobby Pierce (14 Laps)Sunoco Race Fuels Race for Gas Highest Finisher: Josh RiceMidwest Sheet Metal Spoiler Challenge Point Leader: Brandon SheppardO’Reilly Auto Parts Rookie of the Race: n/aPro Fabrication Headers Fastest Lap of the Race: Brandon Sheppard | Lap 1 | 17.303 secondsFK Rod Ends Hard Luck Award: Brandon SheppardVictory Fuel Power Move of the Race: Josh RiceOuterwears Crew Chief of the Race: Daniel ClarkARP Engine Builder of the Race: Vic Hill Race EnginesMiller Welders Chassis Builder of the Race: Rocket ChassisDirt Draft Fastest in Hot Laps: Brandon Sheppard | 16.107 secondsTime of Race: 12 minutes 45 seconds Sunoco North/South 100 Prelim Points:Pos – Car # – Driver – Thu – Fri – Total – Fastest Lap | Thu – Fastest Lap | Fri1 – 157 – Mike Marlar – 250 – 230 – 480 – 16.082 – 16.022 – 76 – Brandon Overton – 230 – 250 – 480 – 16.363 – 16.423 – 11 – Josh Rice – 220 – 250 – 470 – 16.312 – 16.2174 – 71 – Hudson O’Neal – 220 – 220 – 440 – 16.415 – 16.4715 – 1 – Brandon Sheppard – 260 – 160 – 420 – 15.929 – 16.1556 – 32 – Bobby Pierce – 185 – 230 – 415 – 16.398 – 16.2447 – 99 – Devin Moran – 200 – 205 – 405 – 16.251 – 16.1688 – 1T – Tyler Erb – 200 – 200 – 400 – 15.917 – 16.2779 – 17 – Zack Dohm – 180 – 220 – 400 – 16.573 – 16.46810 – 93F – Carson Ferguson – 195 – 200 – 395 – 15.992 – 16.41111 – 20RT – Ricky Thornton, Jr. – 195 – 195 – 390 – 15.996 – 16.07112 – 58 – Garrett Alberson – 230 – 160 – 390 – 16.012 – 16.34213 – 40B – Kyle Bronson – 210 – 175 – 385 – 16.483 – 16.54514 – 12J – Jason Jameson – 175 – 195 – 370 – 16.277 – 16.46615 – 49 – Jonathan Davenport – 205 – 160 – 365 – 16.019 – 16.22916 – 18 – Shannon Babb – 180 – 185 – 365 – 16.034 – 16.42517 – C7 – Adam Stricker – 160 – 205 – 365 – 16.044 – 16.2218 – 20O – Jimmy Owens – 155 – 210 – 365 – 16.43 – 16.36819 – 79 – Donald McIntosh – 210 – 155 – 365 – 16.37 – 16.46520 – 18L – Trevor Landrum – 190 – 170 – 360 – 16.277 – 16.5221 – 8 – Dillon McCowan – 170 – 190 – 360 – 16.495 – 16.41722 – 60 – Dan Ebert – 140 – 210 – 350 – 16.295 – 16.18723 – 6 – Clay Harris – 195 – 145 – 340 – 16.311 – 16.44624 – 5 – Drake Troutman – 200 – 135 – 335 – 16.026 – 16.28625 – 12M – Ryan Montgomery – 155 – 180 – 335 – 16.267 – 16.52326 – 81F – Jadon Frame – 165 – 170 – 335 – 16.273 – 16.45227 – 22F – Chris Ferguson – 205 – 125 – 330 – 16.221 – 16.04228 – 3s – Brian Shirley – 165 – 165 – 330 – 16.21 – 16.20829 – 99JR – Frank Heckenast, Jr – 185 – 140 – 325 – 16.008 – 16.55330 – 22 – Daniel Hilsabeck – 170 – 155 – 325 – 16.368 – 16.58231 – 16 – Justin Rattliff – 125 – 190 – 315 – 16.382 – 16.7332 – T1 – Todd Morrow – 135 – 175 – 310 – 16.171 – 16.30733 – 126 – Kaede Loudy – 125 – 185 – 310 – 16.357 – 16.42934 – 111 – Max Blair – 125 – 180 – 305 – 16.259 – 035 – 93 – Devin Gilpin – 160 – 145 – 305 – 16.396 – 16.51336 – 13 – Dallon Murty – 130 – 165 – 295 – 16.165 – 16.35737 – 09 – Michael Leach – 145 – 135 – 280 – 16.096 – 15.98438 – 93L – Cory Lawler – 150 – 130 – 280 – 16.286 – 16.85239 – 17SS – Brenden Smith – 125 – 150 – 275 – 16.328 – 16.32140 – D48 – Derek Groomer – 150 – 125 – 275 – 16.558 – 16.85641 – 0 – Jake O’Neil – 125 – 140 – 265 – 16.324 – 16.97942 – 11M – Michael Chilton – 140 – 125 – 265 – 16.514 – 16.43643 – 49M – Luke Morey – 145 – 115 – 260 – 16.13 – 16.38944 – 7S – Justin Smith – 135 – 125 – 260 – 16.501 – 16.71545 – 317 – Blake Creech – 125 – 135 – 260 – 16.517 – 16.76346 – 5N – Dustin Nobbe – 125 – 130 – 255 – 16.293 – 16.42647 – 4G – Kody Evans – 125 – 125 – 250 – 16.473 – 16.42448 – 17SR – Brody Smith – 120 – 125 – 245 – 16.324 – 16.59649 – 21 – Kirk Phillips – 120 – 120 – 240 – 16.783 – 16.96750 – 49G – Billy Green – 115 – 125 – 240 – 17.005 – 16.90451 – 31 – Tyler Millwood – 130 – 105 – 235 – 16.208 – 16.59152 – T8 – Steve Banal – 115 – 120 – 235 – 16.57 – 16.88353 – 6C – Calvin Carlton – 110 – 110 – 220 – 17.576 – 17.25154 – 9 – Josh Dietz – 105 – 110 – 215 – 16.36 – 16.55355 – 18S – Quade Schoonover – 110 – 105 – 215 – 17.596 – 17.16656 – H22 – Brandon Hardgrove – 50 – 115 – 165 – 17.666 – 17.19157 – 20 – Glenn Hounshell – 105 – 0 – 105 – 17.981 – 058 – 15 – Brad Rickels – 50 – 0 – 50 – 17.222 – 059 – 96 – Josh Vineyard – 50 – 0 – 50 – 18.707 – 0 Penske Shocks Heat 1 (10 Laps | Top 3 Transfer):Row – Car # – Driver – Hometown – Car # – Driver – Hometown1 – 79 – Donald McIntosh – Dawsonville, GA – 40B – Kyle Bronson – Brandon, FL2 – 99 – Devin Moran – Dresden, OH – 157 – Mike Marlar – Winfield, TN3 – 12M – Ryan Montgomery – Fairmont, WV – 16 – Justin Rattliff – Campbellsville, KY4 – 09 – Michael Leach – Sun River, MT – 49M – Luke Morey – Zeeland, MI5 – 21 – Kirk Phillips – Ashland, KY – 18S – Quade Schoonover – Peebles, OH Summit Racing Heat 2 (10 Laps | Top 3 Transfer):Row – Car # – Driver – Hometown – Car # – Driver – Hometown1 – 18L – Trevor Landrum – Florence, KY – 12J – Jason Jameson – Lawrenceburg, IN2 – 1T – Tyler Erb – New Waverly, TX – 76 – Brandon Overton – Evans, GA3 – 81F – Jadon Frame – Winchester, TN – T1 – Todd Morrow – Penton, AL4 – 93L – Cory Lawler – Hanover, PA – 7S – Justin Smith – Barbourville, KY5 – 49G – Billy Green – Walton, KY – H22 – Brandon Hardgrove – Burnside, KY Cool-It Thermo Tec Heat 3 (10 Laps | Top 3 Transfer):Row – Car # – Driver – Hometown – Car # – Driver – Hometown1 – 8 – Dillon McCowan – Urbana, MO – 49 – Jonathan Davenport – Blairsville, GA2 – 17D – Zack Dohm – Cross Lanes, WV – 11 – Josh Rice – Crittenden, KY3 – 22F – Chris Ferguson – Mt. Holly, NC – 126 – Kaede Loudy – Rogersville, TN4 – 17SS – Brenden Smith – Dade City, FL – 317 – Blake Creech – Richmond, IN5 – 31 – Tyler Millwood – Kingston, GA – 20 – Glenn Hounshell – Lancaster, KY Simpson Race Products Heat 4 (10 Laps | Top 3 Transfer):Row – Car # – Driver – Hometown – Car # – Driver – Hometown1 – 60 – Dan Ebert – Lake Shore, MN – 18 – Shannon Babb – Moweaqua, IL2 – 93F – Carson Ferguson – Lincolnton, NC – 71 – Hudson O’Neal – Martinsville, IN3 – 3s – Brian Shirley – Chatham, IL – 111 – Max Blair – Centerville, PA4 – D48 – Derek Groomer – Bloomington, IN – 5N – Dustin Nobbe – Batesville, IN5 – T8 – Steve Banal – Lincolnton, NC – 15 – Brad Rickels – Verona, KY Lucas Oil Heat 5 (10 Laps | Top 3 Transfer):Row – Car # – Driver – Hometown – Car # – Driver – Hometown1 – 6 – Clay Harris – Jupiter, FL – C7 – Adam Stricker – Batavia, OH2 – 20RT – Ricky Thornton Jr – Chandler, AZ – 1 – Brandon Sheppard – New Berlin, IL3 – 99JR – Frank Heckenast Jr – Frankfort, IL – 93 – Devin Gilpin – Columbus, IN4 – 0 – Jake O’Neil – Tucson, AZ – 4G – Kody Evans – Camden, OH5 – 6C – Calvin Carlton – Lawrenceburg, KY – 96 – Josh Vineyard – Harrodsburg, KY FloRacing Heat 6 (10 Laps | Top 3 Transfer):Row – Car # – Driver – Hometown – Car # – Driver – Hometown1 – 5 – Drake Troutman – Hyndman, PA – 20O – Jimmy Owens – Newport, TN2 – 58 – Garrett Alberson – Las Cruces, NM – 32 – Bobby Pierce – Oakwood, IL3 – 22 – Daniel Hilsabeck – Earlham, IA – 13 – Dallon Murty – Chelsea, IA4 – 11M – Michael Chilton – Salvisa, KY – 17SR – Brody Smith – Dade City, FL5 – 9 – Jos

PEVELY, MO (Aug. 7, 2026) – On the 20-minute drive from his St. Louis home to I-55 Federated Auto Parts Raceway Park, Joey Wirth wasn’t thinking much beyond just having a fun one-race night with his dad.

A few hours later, he was a first-time national Midget winner with the Xtreme Outlaw Midget Series presented by Toyota.

Wirth has been racing for 17 years with his family by his side, supporting his small budget racing program. No big wins, no big sponsors, just his love for the sport. But that passion was finally rewarded Friday night on one of the biggest stages of the year for Midget racing during the World of Outlaws Ironman 55 weekend.

He showed up to the Xtreme Outlaw Midget Series’ season opener with speed, qualifying second in his group and finishing third in his Heat Race. Then, when the luck of the draw put him on the outside pole for the 25-lap Feature, he made sure to make the most of the opportunity. Wirth fired off into Turn 1 on the opening lap with the might of a raging rocket, blasting to the lead and never looking back.

“This is so cool,” Wirth said in Victory Lane. “We’ve been racing like 17 years. Never won a national race. This is my second race of the year. I live 20 minutes up the road. I mean, what a dream come true. Just me and my dad at the track. Grandpa, uncle, cousins back at home helping us get ready. Just my family, my wife; we have a newborn back at home, I know she’s watching. Just everybody.

“We don’t have sponsors. We have family, and family is what got us here. It feels so good to run up front with all of these guys.”

While he led every lap, his pursuit to victory was still plagued with a few stressors. Three cautions kept eliminating his straightaway lead and bringing Xtreme Outlaw winner Kale Drake back to his rear bumper. The worst of the three occasions occurred with two laps to go.

Drake conjured up his best restart of the night, allowing him to sneak his nose under Wirth going into Turn 1. Wirth stayed ahead down the backstretch and found an unlikely ally in Cullen Hutchison, who began putting pressure on Drake for second at the same time.

With clear lanes all around, Wirth was able to then cruise to a dream win.

“I knew I had to time it perfect to get the run down the front straightaway and get underneath him and push him out of the lane,” Drake said. “There was one preferred lane tonight. With all the rain we had, it made for a narrow racetrack. His car was really good, and they had everything on point tonight, so hats off to them. We’ll just have to be a little better tomorrow night.”

For Wirth, making the most of the track conditions started on Lap 1.

“I definitely prefer a tacky track. This one was in my favor,” Wirth said. “My car wasn’t taking off super well, so I was a little worried on the starts. I know Kale got under me there and I’m just really happy I held him off and beat him going into (Turn) one on the first lap too, to take the lead and control the race.”

On his 20-minute ride back home, he’ll have a lot more to think about now.

“This was actually our only night we planned to race; I was going to go golf and hang out tomorrow, but we might have to reconsider,” Wirth said with a smile in Victory Lane.

QUICK NOTES
Federated Auto Parts Quick Time: Jacob Denney (12.807 second lap)
Toyota Heat 1 Winner: Karter Sarff
DIRTVision Heat 2 Winner: Cullen Hutchison
Smith Titanium Hard Charger: Kameron Key

RESULTS
Feature (25 Laps): 1. 77-Joe Wirth[2]; 2. 4-Kale Drake[3]; 3. 40-Cullen Hutchison[4]; 4. 7TX-Kyle Jones[5]; 5. 67-Jacob Denney[7]; 6. 7-Shannon McQueen[8]; 7. 3U-Kameron Key[14]; 8. 7U-Karter Sarff[6]; 9. 67K-Colton Robinson[10]; 10. 11-Alex Midkiff[11]; 11. 50-Daniel Adler[13]; 12. 97-Gavin Miller[9]; 13. 7D-Michelle Decker[1]; 14. 7T-Adam Taylor[12]; 15. 51B-Joe B Miller[15]; 16. 10D-Daltyn England[16]

UP NEXT
The Xtreme Outlaw Midget Series presented by Toyota returns to I-55 Federated Auto Parts Raceway Park, along with the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series, for the Ironman 55 finale on Saturday, Aug. 8. For tickets, click HERE.

How can you watch every lap of the Ironman 55 live? On DIRTVision. 

HOMETOWN HERO: Missouri’s Joey Wirth Scores First National Midget Win at I-55

PEVELY, MO (Aug. 7, 2026) – On the 20-minute drive from his St. Louis home to I-55 Federated Auto Parts Raceway Park, Joey Wirth wasn’t thinking much beyond just having a fun one-race night with his dad.

A few hours later, he was a first-time national Midget winner with the Xtreme Outlaw Midget Series presented by Toyota.

Wirth has been racing for 17 years with his family by his side, supporting his small budget racing program. No big wins, no big sponsors, just his love for the sport. But that passion was finally rewarded Friday night on one of the biggest stages of the year for Midget racing during the World of Outlaws Ironman 55 weekend.

He showed up to the Xtreme Outlaw Midget Series’ season opener with speed, qualifying second in his group and finishing third in his Heat Race. Then, when the luck of the draw put him on the outside pole for the 25-lap Feature, he made sure to make the most of the opportunity. Wirth fired off into Turn 1 on the opening lap with the might of a raging rocket, blasting to the lead and never looking back.

“This is so cool,” Wirth said in Victory Lane. “We’ve been racing like 17 years. Never won a national race. This is my second race of the year. I live 20 minutes up the road. I mean, what a dream come true. Just me and my dad at the track. Grandpa, uncle, cousins back at home helping us get ready. Just my family, my wife; we have a newborn back at home, I know she’s watching. Just everybody.

“We don’t have sponsors. We have family, and family is what got us here. It feels so good to run up front with all of these guys.”

While he led every lap, his pursuit to victory was still plagued with a few stressors. Three cautions kept eliminating his straightaway lead and bringing Xtreme Outlaw winner Kale Drake back to his rear bumper. The worst of the three occasions occurred with two laps to go.

Drake conjured up his best restart of the night, allowing him to sneak his nose under Wirth going into Turn 1. Wirth stayed ahead down the backstretch and found an unlikely ally in Cullen Hutchison, who began putting pressure on Drake for second at the same time.

With clear lanes all around, Wirth was able to then cruise to a dream win.

“I knew I had to time it perfect to get the run down the front straightaway and get underneath him and push him out of the lane,” Drake said. “There was one preferred lane tonight. With all the rain we had, it made for a narrow racetrack. His car was really good, and they had everything on point tonight, so hats off to them. We’ll just have to be a little better tomorrow night.”

For Wirth, making the most of the track conditions started on Lap 1.

“I definitely prefer a tacky track. This one was in my favor,” Wirth said. “My car wasn’t taking off super well, so I was a little worried on the starts. I know Kale got under me there and I’m just really happy I held him off and beat him going into (Turn) one on the first lap too, to take the lead and control the race.”

On his 20-minute ride back home, he’ll have a lot more to think about now.

“This was actually our only night we planned to race; I was going to go golf and hang out tomorrow, but we might have to reconsider,” Wirth said with a smile in Victory Lane.

QUICK NOTES
Federated Auto Parts Quick Time: Jacob Denney (12.807 second lap)
Toyota Heat 1 Winner: Karter Sarff
DIRTVision Heat 2 Winner: Cullen Hutchison
Smith Titanium Hard Charger: Kameron Key

RESULTS
Feature (25 Laps): 1. 77-Joe Wirth[2]; 2. 4-Kale Drake[3]; 3. 40-Cullen Hutchison[4]; 4. 7TX-Kyle Jones[5]; 5. 67-Jacob Denney[7]; 6. 7-Shannon McQueen[8]; 7. 3U-Kameron Key[14]; 8. 7U-Karter Sarff[6]; 9. 67K-Colton Robinson[10]; 10. 11-Alex Midkiff[11]; 11. 50-Daniel Adler[13]; 12. 97-Gavin Miller[9]; 13. 7D-Michelle Decker[1]; 14. 7T-Adam Taylor[12]; 15. 51B-Joe B Miller[15]; 16. 10D-Daltyn England[16]

UP NEXT
The Xtreme Outlaw Midget Series presented by Toyota returns to I-55 Federated Auto Parts Raceway Park, along with the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series, for the Ironman 55 finale on Saturday, Aug. 8. For tickets, click HERE.

How can you watch every lap of the Ironman 55 live? On DIRTVision. 

ARTICLE: https://xtremeoutlawseries.com/news/hometown-hero-missouris-joey-wirth-scores-first-national-midget-win-at-i-55/

CHEVROLET IN THE NTT INDYCAR SERIESOnlyBulls Grand Prix of Portland1.964-mile, 12-Turn Portland International Raceway road coursePortland, OregonFriday Practice ReportAugust 7, 2026 PORTLAND (August 7, 2026) –– As history has shown, practice one for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES at Portland International Raceway can produce a bit of chaos as drivers re-adjust to the twists and turns of the flat, short, but very fast track. Fortunately, for the majority of the Chevrolet powered INDYCAR drivers, there was little calamity, and Rinus Veekay powered his No. 76 Juncos Hollinger Chevrolet to third overall following the three-tier session that comprised practice one. Scott McLaughlin, No. 3 Sonsio Vehicle Protection Team Penske Chevrolet,  David Malulas. No. 12 Verizon Team Penske Chevrolet and Josef Newgarden, No. 2 Astemo Team Penske Chevrolet also posted top-nine times today. Pato O’Ward, No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet, was the victim of the curb and railing of turn one, sending him around off the exit curb. He hustled the car back to pit lane where the team changed the nose, checked the car over, put on new tires and sent him out to finish practice. Activity resumes Saturday.:Saturday, August 8NTT INDYCAR SERIES Practice #2 – 1pm (ET)/noon (CT)/11am (MT)/10am (PT) – FS1/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218NTT INDYCAR SERIES Qualifying – 7pm (ET)/6pm (CT)/5pm (MT)/4pm (PT) – FS1/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218 ONLYBULLS Grand Prix Portland – Friday Practice Results:

NTT INDYCAR SERIES News ConferenceFriday, August 7, 2026Scott McLaughlinPress Conference THE MODERATOR: Wrapping up practice, we’re currently joined by Scott McLaughlin. The 2022 winner here at PIR. Scott, thanks for joining us. Your thoughts on practice one and the start of the weekend here? SCOTT McLAUGHLIN: Yeah, hello, everyone. CTHE MODERATOR: Former winner here. You like this place a lot. What is it about it that seems to fit your driving style? SCOTT McLAUGHLIN: Yeah, I mean, anyplace especially you come to that you won before. I think for me, being able to go to a track that requires a little bit of technicality in terms of braking hard, hairpins. Then you have the fast flowing nature of part of the track as well. It’s a challenge to set up for, a challenge to drive and get completely right. It’s a small lap. Always very tight. It’s rewarding when you get it right, but it does punish you when you get it wrong. Hopefully we’re on the right end of it and can make it happen. Certainly feels good. THE MODERATOR: Open it up for questions. Q. Scott, how important, if at all, is it to have a good weekend here, because there’s four straight after this one? SCOTT McLAUGHLIN: Look, positive momentum, it’s a real thing in sport. Especially in motorsport. Yeah, we’re sort of looking at from the 3 car side really trying to concentrate on these five weeks as a little mini five-week championship in some ways, and try to do the best we can. I think the last few races we’ve come on strong as a team, between engineering, driving, on the stand. We’re chomping at the bit to get going this weekend. Yeah, I think it’s important every weekend to go well, important to get that momentum going. Hopefully, yes, we can start it this weekend. Q. Do you think that momentum is more important for the end of this year or for when you look ahead to 2027? SCOTT McLAUGHLIN: I don’t know. It’s such a long off-season that it’s hard. I think the biggest thing is trying to learn as much as you can with your team, prove that we can do this together and work hard. I really feel like the last month we’ve worked really well as a team. Any momentum’s great. Whether that carries into the off-season, to the preseason, it remains to behold. Certainly the confidence from a really good end to the year you’ll carry through the whole off-season with all your simulator work, testing, whatever. Hopefully that bodes well for the start of ’27. Q. All the engineering changes you kind of had this year, what were some of the biggest challenges initially this season? You mentioned this positive last month or so. Are there any kind of specifics that you feel have maybe clicked with this kind of revamped group in these past few months? SCOTT McLAUGHLIN: Yeah, look, my stand is fantastic. My engineering group is fantastic. I was so confident with them heading into the year. It’s just one of those things that you’ve got to gel regardless. You have all these different tracks. It’s so tough in INDYCAR to be great week in, week out. For Raul, my engineer, he’s been in sports car for a long time. Hadn’t been in INDYCAR a long time full-time, although he’s done the odd Indy 500 here and there. Going to Barber, going to a street track, going to a short oval, trying to keep that cadence right and getting the balance right, nailing that in a series that’s so tight as INDYCAR, it’s difficult. It just took a little bit more time for me maybe to get my terminology about what I wanted with the car and to make it better to him. I think the way he was taking some of my comments maybe was like a little maybe he thought I wanted too much, and he was changing the car a lot. Then I didn’t want it that much. Just trying to manufacture that language that we can both get on top of a few things. I thought the testing we’ve done was really great. Milwaukee and Mid-Ohio we had some really good tests. The races since Indy, I feel like we’ve all clicked really well. I’m excited to keep building with this group. Have so much confidence and we’ll keep working. Q. Scott, I look at your teammate David Malukas being 83 points behind Palou in the championship. You’ve been in those championship fights before. What kind of collective effort do y’all try to make to help prop him up for this closing stretch? What kind of advice do you give David since he’s never been in a situation like this before? SCOTT McLAUGHLIN: Firstly, one race at a time for everybody. Just take it as it comes, especially in this series these days, how competitive it is. From a team perspective, yeah, for sure, we want a Penske car to win, regardless if it’s myself, Malukas or Josef. We’re going to be working hard as a team to make that happen. We’ll figure that out as time goes on. That’s always been the mantra here. Yeah, for him, different championship cars throughout the years in different categories. It’s about trying not to really focus on the points, just worry about execution, the rest will take care of itself. But it’s hard to beat experience in that spot. He’ll just gain it this year and continued to get better. Q. Could you see a situation with you and Josef where maybe as a team y’all try to cover a certain way, do strategy a little bit different to try to shake stuff up and take points off Palou to aid David? SCOTT McLAUGHLIN: I think we always try to make sure a Penske car wins. We always cover all bases. I think you saw that in Nashville. We pitted early. The other guys stayed out. A few other things happened there. You try and cover all the bases to make sure we can at least get one car in front of the 10 or something like that. We just take that as circumstantial, and that will be decided between the strategists really more than the drivers. Q. Looking at the six races in the next five weeks, we know there’s a lot of scenarios that come into play. For you as a driver, how hard does this get in terms of your recovery between events, different type of tracks, all those scenarios? That has to put a lot of demand on the back end of the season for you as a driver physically. SCOTT McLAUGHLIN: I was speaking to Will about it. I’m so excited. I think five weeks straight is awesome. It’s tough for the teams. It’s tough for us overall as a category. But it’s awesome to be racing that much. Part and parcel of our calendar being from March to September and being so tight-knit together. I’m looking forward to it personally. Yeah, it is tough recovery-wise. Maybe your gym sessions are a little bit less than usual I guess in some ways. It’s nice to be in the seat all the time. Just getting match fit, track fit you could say, being in the race a lot. Q. Within the series of weeks, you have two brand-new tracks that no one has been to before. That will make a little bit more of a level playing field for everyone. SCOTT McLAUGHLIN: Yeah, I mean, everyone has seen the track. They’ll get some simulator running. For sure, it’s try to hit the ground running as hard as you can. We know the Andretti boys are strong on street circuits. DC and Markham, two amazing events we’re going to. I’m really excited. It’s going to be great. Try to hit the ground running, but know that the normal guys will be up front and hopefully we can stay with them. THE MODERATOR: Scott, we’ll cut you loose. FastScripts Transcript by ASAP Sports

Tune-In Guide Saturday, August 8NTT INDYCAR SERIES Practice #2 – 1pm (ET)/noon (CT)/11am (MT)/10am (PT) – FS1/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218NTT INDYCAR SERIES Qualifying – 7pm (ET)/6pm (CT)/5pm (MT)/4pm (PT) – FS1/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218 Sunday, August 9NTT INDYCAR SERIES Warm Up – 1pm (ET)/ (CT)/7am (MT)/6am (PT) – FS1/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218OnlyBulls Grand Prix of Portland (110 laps)– 4pm (ET)/3pm (CT)2pm (MT)/1pm (PT) – FOX/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218

Scott McLaughlin (Team Penske) on track at PIR

Rinus VeeKay during Friday practice at the Portland International Raceway

Media Resources: Images | Media Advances | Chevrolet Newsroom

CHEVROLET IN THE NTT INDYCAR SERIESOnlyBulls Grand Prix of Portland1.964-mile, 12-Turn Portland International Raceway road coursePortland, OregonFriday Practice ReportAugust 7, 2026 PORTLAND (August 7, 2026) –– As history has shown, practice one for the NTT INDYCAR SERIES at Portland International Raceway can produce a bit of chaos as drivers re-adjust to the twists and turns of the flat, short, but very fast track. Fortunately, for the majority of the Chevrolet powered INDYCAR drivers, there was little calamity, and Rinus Veekay powered his No. 76 Juncos Hollinger Chevrolet to third overall following the three-tier session that comprised practice one. Scott McLaughlin, No. 3 Sonsio Vehicle Protection Team Penske Chevrolet,  David Malulas. No. 12 Verizon Team Penske Chevrolet and Josef Newgarden, No. 2 Astemo Team Penske Chevrolet also posted top-nine times today. Pato O’Ward, No. 5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet, was the victim of the curb and railing of turn one, sending him around off the exit curb. He hustled the car back to pit lane where the team changed the nose, checked the car over, put on new tires and sent him out to finish practice. Activity resumes Saturday.:Saturday, August 8NTT INDYCAR SERIES Practice #2 – 1pm (ET)/noon (CT)/11am (MT)/10am (PT) – FS1/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218NTT INDYCAR SERIES Qualifying – 7pm (ET)/6pm (CT)/5pm (MT)/4pm (PT) – FS1/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218 ONLYBULLS Grand Prix Portland – Friday Practice Results:

NTT INDYCAR SERIES News ConferenceFriday, August 7, 2026Scott McLaughlinPress Conference THE MODERATOR: Wrapping up practice, we’re currently joined by Scott McLaughlin. The 2022 winner here at PIR. Scott, thanks for joining us. Your thoughts on practice one and the start of the weekend here? SCOTT McLAUGHLIN: Yeah, hello, everyone. CTHE MODERATOR: Former winner here. You like this place a lot. What is it about it that seems to fit your driving style? SCOTT McLAUGHLIN: Yeah, I mean, anyplace especially you come to that you won before. I think for me, being able to go to a track that requires a little bit of technicality in terms of braking hard, hairpins. Then you have the fast flowing nature of part of the track as well. It’s a challenge to set up for, a challenge to drive and get completely right. It’s a small lap. Always very tight. It’s rewarding when you get it right, but it does punish you when you get it wrong. Hopefully we’re on the right end of it and can make it happen. Certainly feels good. THE MODERATOR: Open it up for questions. Q. Scott, how important, if at all, is it to have a good weekend here, because there’s four straight after this one? SCOTT McLAUGHLIN: Look, positive momentum, it’s a real thing in sport. Especially in motorsport. Yeah, we’re sort of looking at from the 3 car side really trying to concentrate on these five weeks as a little mini five-week championship in some ways, and try to do the best we can. I think the last few races we’ve come on strong as a team, between engineering, driving, on the stand. We’re chomping at the bit to get going this weekend. Yeah, I think it’s important every weekend to go well, important to get that momentum going. Hopefully, yes, we can start it this weekend. Q. Do you think that momentum is more important for the end of this year or for when you look ahead to 2027? SCOTT McLAUGHLIN: I don’t know. It’s such a long off-season that it’s hard. I think the biggest thing is trying to learn as much as you can with your team, prove that we can do this together and work hard. I really feel like the last month we’ve worked really well as a team. Any momentum’s great. Whether that carries into the off-season, to the preseason, it remains to behold. Certainly the confidence from a really good end to the year you’ll carry through the whole off-season with all your simulator work, testing, whatever. Hopefully that bodes well for the start of ’27. Q. All the engineering changes you kind of had this year, what were some of the biggest challenges initially this season? You mentioned this positive last month or so. Are there any kind of specifics that you feel have maybe clicked with this kind of revamped group in these past few months? SCOTT McLAUGHLIN: Yeah, look, my stand is fantastic. My engineering group is fantastic. I was so confident with them heading into the year. It’s just one of those things that you’ve got to gel regardless. You have all these different tracks. It’s so tough in INDYCAR to be great week in, week out. For Raul, my engineer, he’s been in sports car for a long time. Hadn’t been in INDYCAR a long time full-time, although he’s done the odd Indy 500 here and there. Going to Barber, going to a street track, going to a short oval, trying to keep that cadence right and getting the balance right, nailing that in a series that’s so tight as INDYCAR, it’s difficult. It just took a little bit more time for me maybe to get my terminology about what I wanted with the car and to make it better to him. I think the way he was taking some of my comments maybe was like a little maybe he thought I wanted too much, and he was changing the car a lot. Then I didn’t want it that much. Just trying to manufacture that language that we can both get on top of a few things. I thought the testing we’ve done was really great. Milwaukee and Mid-Ohio we had some really good tests. The races since Indy, I feel like we’ve all clicked really well. I’m excited to keep building with this group. Have so much confidence and we’ll keep working. Q. Scott, I look at your teammate David Malukas being 83 points behind Palou in the championship. You’ve been in those championship fights before. What kind of collective effort do y’all try to make to help prop him up for this closing stretch? What kind of advice do you give David since he’s never been in a situation like this before? SCOTT McLAUGHLIN: Firstly, one race at a time for everybody. Just take it as it comes, especially in this series these days, how competitive it is. From a team perspective, yeah, for sure, we want a Penske car to win, regardless if it’s myself, Malukas or Josef. We’re going to be working hard as a team to make that happen. We’ll figure that out as time goes on. That’s always been the mantra here. Yeah, for him, different championship cars throughout the years in different categories. It’s about trying not to really focus on the points, just worry about execution, the rest will take care of itself. But it’s hard to beat experience in that spot. He’ll just gain it this year and continued to get better. Q. Could you see a situation with you and Josef where maybe as a team y’all try to cover a certain way, do strategy a little bit different to try to shake stuff up and take points off Palou to aid David? SCOTT McLAUGHLIN: I think we always try to make sure a Penske car wins. We always cover all bases. I think you saw that in Nashville. We pitted early. The other guys stayed out. A few other things happened there. You try and cover all the bases to make sure we can at least get one car in front of the 10 or something like that. We just take that as circumstantial, and that will be decided between the strategists really more than the drivers. Q. Looking at the six races in the next five weeks, we know there’s a lot of scenarios that come into play. For you as a driver, how hard does this get in terms of your recovery between events, different type of tracks, all those scenarios? That has to put a lot of demand on the back end of the season for you as a driver physically. SCOTT McLAUGHLIN: I was speaking to Will about it. I’m so excited. I think five weeks straight is awesome. It’s tough for the teams. It’s tough for us overall as a category. But it’s awesome to be racing that much. Part and parcel of our calendar being from March to September and being so tight-knit together. I’m looking forward to it personally. Yeah, it is tough recovery-wise. Maybe your gym sessions are a little bit less than usual I guess in some ways. It’s nice to be in the seat all the time. Just getting match fit, track fit you could say, being in the race a lot. Q. Within the series of weeks, you have two brand-new tracks that no one has been to before. That will make a little bit more of a level playing field for everyone. SCOTT McLAUGHLIN: Yeah, I mean, everyone has seen the track. They’ll get some simulator running. For sure, it’s try to hit the ground running as hard as you can. We know the Andretti boys are strong on street circuits. DC and Markham, two amazing events we’re going to. I’m really excited. It’s going to be great. Try to hit the ground running, but know that the normal guys will be up front and hopefully we can stay with them. THE MODERATOR: Scott, we’ll cut you loose. FastScripts Transcript by ASAP Sports

Tune-In Guide Saturday, August 8NTT INDYCAR SERIES Practice #2 – 1pm (ET)/noon (CT)/11am (MT)/10am (PT) – FS1/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218NTT INDYCAR SERIES Qualifying – 7pm (ET)/6pm (CT)/5pm (MT)/4pm (PT) – FS1/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218 Sunday, August 9NTT INDYCAR SERIES Warm Up – 1pm (ET)/ (CT)/7am (MT)/6am (PT) – FS1/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218OnlyBulls Grand Prix of Portland (110 laps)– 4pm (ET)/3pm (CT)2pm (MT)/1pm (PT) – FOX/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218

Scott McLaughlin (Team Penske) on track at PIR

Chevrolet history at Portland International RacewayChevrolet wins at Portland International Raceway: 9 2025 – Will Power – Team Penske2024 – Will Power – Team Penske2022 – Scott McLaughlin – Team Penske2019 – Will Power – Team Penske1993 – Emerson Fittipaldi – Team Penske1991 – Michael Andretti – Newman Haas Racing 1990 – Michael Andretti – Newman Haas Racing 1989 – Emerson Fittipaldi – Patrick Racing1988 – Danny Sullivan – Team Penske Chevrolet poles at Portland International Raceway: 8 2025 – Christian Lundgaard – Arrow McLaren2024 – Santino Ferrucci – A.J. Foyt Racing2022 – Scott McLaughlin – Team Penske2018 – Will Power – Team Penske1992 – Emerson Fittipaldi – Team Penske1991 – Emerson Fittipaldi Team Penske1990 – Danny Sullivan – Team Penske1988 – Danny Sullivan – Team Penske Chevrolet podiums at Portland International Raceway: 22 Chevrolet podiums at Portland International Raceway by driver: Emerson Fittipaldi (5), Will Power (4), Michael Andretti (2),  Al Unser Jr. (2), Mario Andretti (1), Christian Lundgaard (1), Scott McLaughlin (1), Rick Mears (1), Josef Newgarden (1), Bob Rahal (1), Felix Rosenqvist (1), Danny Sullivan (1) and Paul Tracy (1) Chevrolet podiums at Portland International Raceway by team: Team Penske (12), Galles Racing (3), Newman Haas Racing (3), Patrick Racing (2), Arrow McLaren (2) Chevrolet laps led at Portland International Raceway: 854 Chevrolet laps led at Portland International Raceway by driver: Will Power (233), Michael Andretti (203), Emerson Fittipaldi (182), , Scott McLaughlin (109), Danny Sullivan (46), Pato O’Ward (45), Rick Mears (25), Mario Andretti (3), Josef Newgarden (3), Felix Rosenqvist (3), Al Unser Jr. (3), Callum Ilott (1) Chevrolet laps led at Portland International Raceway by team: Team Penske (488), Newman Haas Racing (206), Patrick Racing (110), Arrow McLaren (46), Galles Racing (3), and Juncos Hollinger Racing (1) Manufacturer History at Portland International Raceway Wins (with competition): 9 – Chevrolet (2025, 2024, 2022, 2019, 1993, 1991, 1990, 1989, 1988)7 – Honda (2023, 2021, 2018, 2000, 1999, 1998, 19964 – Cosworth (1987, 1986, 1985, 1984)2 – Ford (2001, 1992)2 – Mercedes (1997, 1995)1 – Toyota (20021 – Ilmor (1994 Poles (with competition): 8 – Chevrolet (2025, 2024, 2022, 2018, 1992, 1991, 1990, 1988)6 – Honda (2023, 2021, 2019, 2000, 1999, 1996)5 – Ford (2001, 1998, 1997, 1995, 19934 – Cosworth (1987, 1986, 1985, 1984)1 – Toyota (20021 – Ilmor (1995)1 – Porsche (1989)

At Knoxville Dragway in late June, with lights ablaze, the rain began to fall along with the light upon the Southeast Gassers Association RAM Clutches Nationals. That moment pushed SEGA drag racing into its summer break, awaiting its completion at the Bowl4Life Foundation Rock Revival at Rockingham Dragway in North Carolina. By the end of the two-race weekend, fans and the track were thrilled by the heads-up, clutch dumping, wheel lifting, and gear jamming action.

Friday action at a Southeast Gassers Association event is usually reserved for test and tune. But at Rockingham Dragway on July 31^st, the first hit at the track in over a decade for SEGA was for a win light as the remaining eliminations for the RAM Clutches Nationals were to be completed. The action in B/Gas round one, which fired up the Friday evening action, along with A/Gas round one, looked like the first hits off the trailer of the backside no-prep action of the great Rockingham series Dig Or Die. By round two, the SEGA competitors got a grip of The Rock and the passes were some of the best of the season thus far. 

Competitive highlights for the RAM Clutches Nationals showcased new finalists and winners along with championship implications. The Super Stockers, number one and two in points, paired up in one half of the semi-final matchups. Jerry Dean, the multi-time defending champion and points leader, faced Rob Walden, the number two competitor who won the last SEGA event, defeating Dean. After starting line negotiations involving illuminating staging bulbs, it was Dean advancing to the final. That final would have Tony Nowasadski in his 56’ Chevy Public Enemy Super Stocker waiting for a shot to defeat Dean as only the third driver to appear in a SEGA Super Stock final in 2026. In the Chevy versus Chevy battle, it was Jerry Dean back to winning ways while extending his points lead. 

In C/Gas it has been a story of former champions battling it out between the 2024 champ, Todd Oden, and the 2025 champ, Jerren Perdue. They both would win their way to the semi-finals, with the expectation to see them both in the final once again. Jerren Perdue dispatched Randy Kiefer in his Pontiac wagon. Todd Oden dispatched himself by a red light that gave Tony Tatgenhorst the win-light. Tony, in only his second career SEGA final, would have to defeat the defending champ to earn his first career victory. Again in a Chevy versus Chevy battle between wagon and two-door Chevy II varieties, it was Tony Tatgenhorst earning his first SEGA event championship in his Wasted Wages gasser powered by its Ross Racing Engines powerplant.

For B/Gas competitors, the top competition would set the final between two Tennessee natives for the RAM Clutches Nationals that began at Knoxville Dragway. Michael Oden, an Alabamian, did try to stop Ted McKee in the semi-finals, but Ted and the Rocky Top Missile were on target, turning on the win light. The number two qualifier, Charlie Lee, in his Mustang gasser known as Tennessee Charlie, had a bye into the final due to the ladder. In a rematch of the Bama Brawl final at Holiday Raceway, where Charlie Lee won his first outing of the season. This time it was Ted McKee besting Charlie Lee for his third win of the season, starting a streak with back-to-back wins.

The quickest and fastest cars in SEGA are the A/Gas cars, and they have all been chasing Ben Christopher in his Happy Daze Chevy II gasser. In the semi-finals, those doing the chasing were Leslie Horne up against Ken Rainwater and then Greg Stelse in The Joker head-to-head with Ben. Ken Rainwater, the 2025 B/Gas champion, is gaining performance with his A/Gas combination each race, but it wasn’t enough to best multi-time A/Gas champion Leslie Horne. In the Greg and Ben pairing, certainly The Joker is no joke, but it was Ben outdriving Greg to make his fourth straight final of 2026. In another rematch from Holiday Raceway, this time Leslie didn’t red-light, but he still didn’t complete the circuits for the win-light in his lane against Ben, who earned his third straight victory.

Friday night’s test and tune session along with the completion of the RAM Clutches Nationals was just the beginning for SEGA and Rockingham Dragway. On Saturday, August 1^st, the premier gasser organization contested the originally scheduled standalone race in Richmond County, North Carolina, the Bowl4Life Foundation Rock Revival.

Super Stock had three rounds of eliminations on Saturday race day to complete to crown an event champion. Dominator Dean continued his number one qualifying streak that dates back seasons at this point. Jerry marched through the field with a first-round bye, then put Tony Nowasadski on the trailer for the second time for the weekend. In the final, it would be Rob Walden in his Strych 09 Chevy Impala back in the ultimate round, creating the familiar match-up for Super Stock. The familiar theme that has been in Super Stock continued on as Jerry Dean in his Last Rebel II Chevy II won over Rob Walden, who was in the 6.70s while Jerry was able to stop the clocks with a win-light and a 6.38 elapsed time. It is Jerry’s fourth win in 2026.

The C/Gas category saw an upset to the Perdure-Oden stranglehold on the category with Tony Tatgenhorst earning that first SEGA win. The category would continue to see upsets with one side of those dueling former champions. Todd Oden had his woes in qualifying, damaging rear-end components. In his first-round matchup against Heath Adams in the Rusty Bullitt gasser, Todd would have more attrition matters arise with a broken transmission causing him to lose round one. That blew open the door for Jerren Perdue to take a clear points lead in race five, and he capitalized on it to the point of advancing to the final round. The number one qualifier for the category was the winner on Friday, Tony Tatgenhorst. He won his round one match-up against Allen Lovelady, then took his bye run in round two. His semi-final round pitted him and Heath Adams in a rematch of the 2025 Championship Finals final round at Shadyside Dragway, where Heath earned his first SEGA win over Tony. Again, it would be Heath firing true for the win over Tony. In the final, you had Jerren Perdue, the number two qualifier, up against Heath Adam, the number five qualifier. Jerren Perdue, in his Ghost Of Fulton’s Past Chevy II station wagon, continued to haunt the C/Gas competition, defeating Heath with a 6.08ET to a 6.24ET. Jerren has appeared in every final thus far in 2026 and earned his second win to this point in the season at The Rock.

Top competitors in B/Gas are easy to see with Charlie Lee and especially Ted McKee. The top performance continued for Ted McKee, qualifying number one, earning the round one bye, and then rocking on all the way to the final round in dominant fashion. Charlie Lee had noticed the loss of steam with each pass made on the weekend. The second-round matchup he had against Brad Wimberly in the Southern Sizzler would be his last of the weekend and possibly for the entire season, noting significant internal engine damage. Brad would lose in the semi-final round to Daniel Haynes in The Patriot Ford Falcon gasser, making an appearance in his select race capacity. Ford versus Chevy in the final with Ted up against Daniel, the 2024 category champion who is a threat each time he is behind the wheel, no matter the category or car. The former champion launched everything he had at the current points leader, but it wasn’t enough as Daniel drove to a 5.70ET to Ted’s 5.65ET. Ted in the Rocky Top Missile with his Freeman power has the points lead, has stretched it, and looks nearly unbeatable at the moment.

This SEGA fifth race of 2026 may have showcased a turning point in A/Gas drag racing. Ben Christopher certainly has been showcasing immense performance, making every final and having three straight wins. He continued that performance, qualifying number one with a 5.17ET in comparison to second-place qualifier Barry Adler in the Iron Eagle, clocked at a 5.24ET. Ben motored his Happy Daze gasser with Jason Line power through his first-round bye earned by qualifying number one and then past Greg Stelse in round two. His fifth straight final round appearance was in reach, but Ken Rainwater, who took out Greg Porter and Leslie Horne, proceeded to stop the Ben Christopher daze over A/Gas with a hole shot win. Set to face Ken Rainwater in his first A/Gas final was a competitor that is no stranger to A/Gas finals, Kenneth Phillips. He had advanced past Dean Jonas, Quian Stott with a new Falcon gasser dubbed Executioner III, and number two qualifier Barry Adler. This race day showcased that Ben can be stopped outside of the finals, familiar competitors with a new competitive ride, a competitor poised to win with a new combination, and a winning familiar face. Kenneth Phillips in his Corvette gasser, the Silver Streak II, defeated Ken Rainwater in the Instigator Chevy II.

By the end of the double‑feature weekend, fans were treated to drag racing in its purest form—real cars with four-on-the-floor manuals, naturally aspirated engines, and drivers relying on skill rather than electronic aids. That competition and that show is Southeast Gassers Association drag racing, which produced fans wanting more. For SEGA’s first time back to Rockingham Dragway and Richmond County, North Carolina, for the first time in over a decade and the first time earning points as a championship series, it was truly a rocking time for the Bowl4Life Foundation Rock Revival. Expect more for SEGA and Rockingham in 2027.

THE SOUTHEAST GASSERS ASSOCIATION REMAINING 2026 SCHEDULE

8/22 Farmington Dragway – Mocksville, NC.

9/12 Greer Dragway – Greer, SC.

10/9, 10 Gulfport Dragway – Gulfport, MS. (Double Feature)

10/31 Shadyside Dragway – Shelby, NC.

ABOUT SOUTHEAST GASSERS ASSOCIATION DRAG RACING                                                                                                                                        

The ROCK Revival Rejuvenates Southeast Gassers Association 2026 Season

At Knoxville Dragway in late June, with lights ablaze, the rain began to fall along with the light upon the Southeast Gassers Association RAM Clutches Nationals. That moment pushed SEGA drag racing into its summer break, awaiting its completion at the Bowl4Life Foundation Rock Revival at Rockingham Dragway in North Carolina. By the end of the two-race weekend, fans and the track were thrilled by the heads-up, clutch dumping, wheel lifting, and gear jamming action.

Friday action at a Southeast Gassers Association event is usually reserved for test and tune. But at Rockingham Dragway on July 31^st, the first hit at the track in over a decade for SEGA was for a win light as the remaining eliminations for the RAM Clutches Nationals were to be completed. The action in B/Gas round one, which fired up the Friday evening action, along with A/Gas round one, looked like the first hits off the trailer of the backside no-prep action of the great Rockingham series Dig Or Die. By round two, the SEGA competitors got a grip of The Rock and the passes were some of the best of the season thus far. 

Competitive highlights for the RAM Clutches Nationals showcased new finalists and winners along with championship implications. The Super Stockers, number one and two in points, paired up in one half of the semi-final matchups. Jerry Dean, the multi-time defending champion and points leader, faced Rob Walden, the number two competitor who won the last SEGA event, defeating Dean. After starting line negotiations involving illuminating staging bulbs, it was Dean advancing to the final. That final would have Tony Nowasadski in his 56’ Chevy Public Enemy Super Stocker waiting for a shot to defeat Dean as only the third driver to appear in a SEGA Super Stock final in 2026. In the Chevy versus Chevy battle, it was Jerry Dean back to winning ways while extending his points lead. 

In C/Gas it has been a story of former champions battling it out between the 2024 champ, Todd Oden, and the 2025 champ, Jerren Perdue. They both would win their way to the semi-finals, with the expectation to see them both in the final once again. Jerren Perdue dispatched Randy Kiefer in his Pontiac wagon. Todd Oden dispatched himself by a red light that gave Tony Tatgenhorst the win-light. Tony, in only his second career SEGA final, would have to defeat the defending champ to earn his first career victory. Again in a Chevy versus Chevy battle between wagon and two-door Chevy II varieties, it was Tony Tatgenhorst earning his first SEGA event championship in his Wasted Wages gasser powered by its Ross Racing Engines powerplant.

For B/Gas competitors, the top competition would set the final between two Tennessee natives for the RAM Clutches Nationals that began at Knoxville Dragway. Michael Oden, an Alabamian, did try to stop Ted McKee in the semi-finals, but Ted and the Rocky Top Missile were on target, turning on the win light. The number two qualifier, Charlie Lee, in his Mustang gasser known as Tennessee Charlie, had a bye into the final due to the ladder. In a rematch of the Bama Brawl final at Holiday Raceway, where Charlie Lee won his first outing of the season. This time it was Ted McKee besting Charlie Lee for his third win of the season, starting a streak with back-to-back wins.

The quickest and fastest cars in SEGA are the A/Gas cars, and they have all been chasing Ben Christopher in his Happy Daze Chevy II gasser. In the semi-finals, those doing the chasing were Leslie Horne up against Ken Rainwater and then Greg Stelse in The Joker head-to-head with Ben. Ken Rainwater, the 2025 B/Gas champion, is gaining performance with his A/Gas combination each race, but it wasn’t enough to best multi-time A/Gas champion Leslie Horne. In the Greg and Ben pairing, certainly The Joker is no joke, but it was Ben outdriving Greg to make his fourth straight final of 2026. In another rematch from Holiday Raceway, this time Leslie didn’t red-light, but he still didn’t complete the circuits for the win-light in his lane against Ben, who earned his third straight victory.

Friday night’s test and tune session along with the completion of the RAM Clutches Nationals was just the beginning for SEGA and Rockingham Dragway. On Saturday, August 1^st, the premier gasser organization contested the originally scheduled standalone race in Richmond County, North Carolina, the Bowl4Life Foundation Rock Revival.

Super Stock had three rounds of eliminations on Saturday race day to complete to crown an event champion. Dominator Dean continued his number one qualifying streak that dates back seasons at this point. Jerry marched through the field with a first-round bye, then put Tony Nowasadski on the trailer for the second time for the weekend. In the final, it would be Rob Walden in his Strych 09 Chevy Impala back in the ultimate round, creating the familiar match-up for Super Stock. The familiar theme that has been in Super Stock continued on as Jerry Dean in his Last Rebel II Chevy II won over Rob Walden, who was in the 6.70s while Jerry was able to stop the clocks with a win-light and a 6.38 elapsed time. It is Jerry’s fourth win in 2026.

The C/Gas category saw an upset to the Perdure-Oden stranglehold on the category with Tony Tatgenhorst earning that first SEGA win. The category would continue to see upsets with one side of those dueling former champions. Todd Oden had his woes in qualifying, damaging rear-end components. In his first-round matchup against Heath Adams in the Rusty Bullitt gasser, Todd would have more attrition matters arise with a broken transmission causing him to lose round one. That blew open the door for Jerren Perdue to take a clear points lead in race five, and he capitalized on it to the point of advancing to the final round. The number one qualifier for the category was the winner on Friday, Tony Tatgenhorst. He won his round one match-up against Allen Lovelady, then took his bye run in round two. His semi-final round pitted him and Heath Adams in a rematch of the 2025 Championship Finals final round at Shadyside Dragway, where Heath earned his first SEGA win over Tony. Again, it would be Heath firing true for the win over Tony. In the final, you had Jerren Perdue, the number two qualifier, up against Heath Adam, the number five qualifier. Jerren Perdue, in his Ghost Of Fulton’s Past Chevy II station wagon, continued to haunt the C/Gas competition, defeating Heath with a 6.08ET to a 6.24ET. Jerren has appeared in every final thus far in 2026 and earned his second win to this point in the season at The Rock.

Top competitors in B/Gas are easy to see with Charlie Lee and especially Ted McKee. The top performance continued for Ted McKee, qualifying number one, earning the round one bye, and then rocking on all the way to the final round in dominant fashion. Charlie Lee had noticed the loss of steam with each pass made on the weekend. The second-round matchup he had against Brad Wimberly in the Southern Sizzler would be his last of the weekend and possibly for the entire season, noting significant internal engine damage. Brad would lose in the semi-final round to Daniel Haynes in The Patriot Ford Falcon gasser, making an appearance in his select race capacity. Ford versus Chevy in the final with Ted up against Daniel, the 2024 category champion who is a threat each time he is behind the wheel, no matter the category or car. The former champion launched everything he had at the current points leader, but it wasn’t enough as Daniel drove to a 5.70ET to Ted’s 5.65ET. Ted in the Rocky Top Missile with his Freeman power has the points lead, has stretched it, and looks nearly unbeatable at the moment.

This SEGA fifth race of 2026 may have showcased a turning point in A/Gas drag racing. Ben Christopher certainly has been showcasing immense performance, making every final and having three straight wins. He continued that performance, qualifying number one with a 5.17ET in comparison to second-place qualifier Barry Adler in the Iron Eagle, clocked at a 5.24ET. Ben motored his Happy Daze gasser with Jason Line power through his first-round bye earned by qualifying number one and then past Greg Stelse in round two. His fifth straight final round appearance was in reach, but Ken Rainwater, who took out Greg Porter and Leslie Horne, proceeded to stop the Ben Christopher daze over A/Gas with a hole shot win. Set to face Ken Rainwater in his first A/Gas final was a competitor that is no stranger to A/Gas finals, Kenneth Phillips. He had advanced past Dean Jonas, Quian Stott with a new Falcon gasser dubbed Executioner III, and number two qualifier Barry Adler. This race day showcased that Ben can be stopped outside of the finals, familiar competitors with a new competitive ride, a competitor poised to win with a new combination, and a winning familiar face. Kenneth Phillips in his Corvette gasser, the Silver Streak II, defeated Ken Rainwater in the Instigator Chevy II.

By the end of the double‑feature weekend, fans were treated to drag racing in its purest form—real cars with four-on-the-floor manuals, naturally aspirated engines, and drivers relying on skill rather than electronic aids. That competition and that show is Southeast Gassers Association drag racing, which produced fans wanting more. For SEGA’s first time back to Rockingham Dragway and Richmond County, North Carolina, for the first time in over a decade and the first time earning points as a championship series, it was truly a rocking time for the Bowl4Life Foundation Rock Revival. Expect more for SEGA and Rockingham in 2027.

THE SOUTHEAST GASSERS ASSOCIATION REMAINING 2026 SCHEDULE

8/22 Farmington Dragway – Mocksville, NC.

9/12 Greer Dragway – Greer, SC.

10/9, 10 Gulfport Dragway – Gulfport, MS. (Double Feature)

10/31 Shadyside Dragway – Shelby, NC.

ABOUT SOUTHEAST GASSERS ASSOCIATION DRAG RACING                                                                                                                                        

Our mission is to bring back the authentic drag racing from the 1960’s and to put on a show the whole family will love. The 1960’s produced some of the most exciting times in drag racing history and we are doing our best to preserve that time at the track. Our cars represent the gassers of that era as closely as possible. This means exciting wheels up launches, drivers banging gears with their four speeds, as well as the car’s appearance while sitting in the pits. Follow the Southeast Gassers Association on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X.

SELF-MADE: How Tanner English Conquered Summer Nationals with Home-Built Team

CONCORD, NC (Aug. 7, 2026) — With one car, one engine and nothing but his own willpower pushing him out into the summer heat, Tanner English has conquered the DIRTcar Summer Nationals.

And the best part? He did it all on his own accord. His talents. His people. His operation.

The 33-year-old from Benton, KY, hoisted the first edition of the Hell Tour’s pitchfork trophy as champion of dirt Late Model racing’s most grueling challenge, becoming the first driver from the “Bluegrass State” to win the Series’ points championship. In 23 Feature starts, English tallied four wins, 19 top fives and 21 top-10 finishes enroute to the overall points title and three weekly championships.

The two-time Midwest Auto Racing Series (MARS) Late Model champion was never an unfamiliar face to the Summer Nationals since making his debut in 2008. English took on the entire schedule for his first time in 2021 driving the Riggs Motorsports No. 81E and went on to compete in the national Late Model ranks for two other teams in the years following.

But after a sudden notice of his release from Coltman Farms Racing last December, English was left without a ride or a plan for 2026. So, he stepped up and rebuilt his own team in his own race shop, set his sights on the Hell Tour and walked away with one of the brightest accomplishments of his career.

“It’s pretty cool to be able to do it and put my name on that trophy,” he said. “That’s something we can always look back on and say we did. At the time, nobody was better than us. Maybe from race to race, they won the battle, some of them. But we won the war.”

After a successful sophomore season as part of the Coltman Farms Racing stable in 2025, which produced four Feature wins and the team’s first-ever World of Outlaws Late Model Series victory at Highland Speedway in August, English was preparing for a third campaign with the Georgia-based operation when he received word of his release following the annual Gateway Dirt Nationals event in December.

“It was all a surprise to me,” English said. “So, I had no plans whatsoever.”

There he stood, in his newly built race shop at his residence in Benton, IL, with no ride and no plan. With the start of the new season only a handful of weeks away, the typical year-end ride swaps and team changes were mostly complete, and English was left on the outside looking in.

“I kinda waited and tried not to make any moves or invest any money right off the bat because I thought the phone would ring,” English said. “But it didn’t.”

So, he picked up the phone himself and began putting pieces together. With only his personal connections and the limited resources he had in his shop, English began considering taking the path ahead solo.

“I got pretty discouraged there for a little bit. And then I thought, ‘If I’m going to do it, I might as well do it myself,’” English said. “I can’t fire myself. I mean, I guess I could… but you’ve got a lot more job security when you’re doing it yourself and can decide more things and be more hands-on on the decision making and do what you think needs to be done, and where money is best spent.

“I just figured if there’s a time to do it, I might as well do it now.”

While the national circuit competition raged on in Florida, English spent January and February working at home, preparing an older car to get back on track with.

“I did have this 2016 Rocket (Chassis) that was my dad’s, and we busted it out at Duck River (Raceway Park) in March and won our first race out,” English said. “That kinda kicked me into gear, and I went all-in right there. I started doing a lot more things, started getting more serious and trying to get the ball rolling on everything.

“I was no-doubt working hard up to that point, but I knew I had to win that to even have a shot at making this work.”

The $6,000 victory check had helped to revitalize his operation and set the tone for the rest of his spring schedule. His second-quarter slate included mostly regional and some national-circuit races, producing several top-five and top-10 finishes. Soon, English was loading up the trailer with a brand-new race car and a new plan, at least for a few weeks.

“We started with a new AK Racecar this year,” English said. “I think I had only raced 15 or 20 times before Summer Nationals started, so I really hadn’t gotten a lot of races in. I needed to consistently race just to figure out what these cars needed and what I needed to do to get better. I figured what better way to do it than race every night.”

He decided on a tentative plan for the first week of Summer Nationals, and saw success from the start, posting five consecutive podium finishes and claiming the Week 1 points championship.

“Even though we had a pretty good start to the year, I was still in the negatives, and I just thought, ‘What better way to do it? This is a good way to make some money in a short amount of time and also get better,’” English said. “After those first two races, my head was a little bit above water and I could breathe a little bit and just start racing, get serious and free up some decisions and stuff like that.”

On the heels of good results to start, English decided to stay on the trail. Eleven races in, he had amassed 10 top-five finishes, but no wins yet. A silent frustration built with every missed opportunity.

But finally, after leading all 30 laps at Farmington Empire Speedway on July 1, he broke through for his first Summer Nationals win of the season and seventh of his career.

“I knew it was coming; you can’t run second and third so many times and not win,” English said. “We just tried to just not change what we were doing and not make big swings, and we knew it would come eventually.”

English went to Victory Lane three more times before the summer was out and remained a model of consistency, accruing 17 podium finishes and only two results outside the top 10, both of which were DNFs. Though the typical grind of the Hell Tour can wear down and deplete equipment, English remained resourceful and stuck to his strategy to make it to the end.

“It’s a low-cost deal, which is what a lot of people don’t realize — 30-lap races, so we’re going through… like, there were some times we’d run our right-rear tires three nights in a row,” English said. “That’s what a lot of people don’t understand. It’s not that big of a deal on that level. You can make it big — you can spend a lot of money if you want to, but you don’t have to.”

In the end, English was proud of his accomplishment — not only for his own operation, but for his family as well. Especially his father — the 2002 DIRTcar Late Model national points champion, Terry English.

“[Terry’s] proud, you can tell,” English said. “This has a lot to do with him, too. He put in a lot of work, a lot of time, and sacrificed a lot this summer just to go out there and do that with me. I can’t thank him enough. He and I were the only ones with perfect attendance. We had a lot of people come in and do a week here or there — my brother did two full weeks and my nephew did three. But my dad was there for the whole time.”

Though the sun has set on the Summer Nationals’ 40th anniversary tour, English’s 2026 campaign is far from complete. He’s got plans to go after the yearlong DIRTcar Late Model championship — a feat that would be the proverbial cherry atop the DIY sundae he devoured this year.

“[Terry’s] won the national (DIRTcar Late Model) championship, and I’d like to do that, too,” English said. “We’re gonna give it a shot anyways, at the end of the year here, just to say we tried and try to catch (Jason) Feger. But it’s going to be tough — he’s got a lot of good wins.

“I’d like to get on the list with dad, and my father-in-law also — Rodney Melvin. He’s won a few also, so I’d like to be on that list with them and have some kind of a dynasty deal there. That would be cool.”

The trophy shines bright, the wins are memorable, and the career rejuvenation he went through this summer was an experience he’ll never forget. But above all else, English’s Summer Nationals championship will be remembered for what it said about a self-run operation.

It’s his own. And he likes it that way.

“I felt like I’ve built three operations from the ground up, and it always ended with me having nothing,” English said. “I’d really like to stick this out and see what we can do. It may last another year, you never know — you can have a terrible year right after a good year.

“But this has been a statement that anything’s possible, and if you put your mind to it and work hard enough, you can do it.”

SELF-MADE: How Tanner English Conquered Summer Nationals with Home-Built Team

CONCORD, NC (Aug. 7, 2026) — With one car, one engine and nothing but his own willpower pushing him out into the summer heat, Tanner English has conquered the DIRTcar Summer Nationals.

And the best part? He did it all on his own accord. His talents. His people. His operation.

The 33-year-old from Benton, KY, hoisted the first edition of the Hell Tour’s pitchfork trophy as champion of dirt Late Model racing’s most grueling challenge, becoming the first driver from the “Bluegrass State” to win the Series’ points championship. In 23 Feature starts, English tallied four wins, 19 top fives and 21 top-10 finishes enroute to the overall points title and three weekly championships.

The two-time Midwest Auto Racing Series (MARS) Late Model champion was never an unfamiliar face to the Summer Nationals since making his debut in 2008. English took on the entire schedule for his first time in 2021 driving the Riggs Motorsports No. 81E and went on to compete in the national Late Model ranks for two other teams in the years following.

But after a sudden notice of his release from Coltman Farms Racing last December, English was left without a ride or a plan for 2026. So, he stepped up and rebuilt his own team in his own race shop, set his sights on the Hell Tour and walked away with one of the brightest accomplishments of his career.

“It’s pretty cool to be able to do it and put my name on that trophy,” he said. “That’s something we can always look back on and say we did. At the time, nobody was better than us. Maybe from race to race, they won the battle, some of them. But we won the war.”

After a successful sophomore season as part of the Coltman Farms Racing stable in 2025, which produced four Feature wins and the team’s first-ever World of Outlaws Late Model Series victory at Highland Speedway in August, English was preparing for a third campaign with the Georgia-based operation when he received word of his release following the annual Gateway Dirt Nationals event in December.

“It was all a surprise to me,” English said. “So, I had no plans whatsoever.”

There he stood, in his newly built race shop at his residence in Benton, IL, with no ride and no plan. With the start of the new season only a handful of weeks away, the typical year-end ride swaps and team changes were mostly complete, and English was left on the outside looking in.

“I kinda waited and tried not to make any moves or invest any money right off the bat because I thought the phone would ring,” English said. “But it didn’t.”

So, he picked up the phone himself and began putting pieces together. With only his personal connections and the limited resources he had in his shop, English began considering taking the path ahead solo.

“I got pretty discouraged there for a little bit. And then I thought, ‘If I’m going to do it, I might as well do it myself,’” English said. “I can’t fire myself. I mean, I guess I could… but you’ve got a lot more job security when you’re doing it yourself and can decide more things and be more hands-on on the decision making and do what you think needs to be done, and where money is best spent.

“I just figured if there’s a time to do it, I might as well do it now.”

While the national circuit competition raged on in Florida, English spent January and February working at home, preparing an older car to get back on track with.

“I did have this 2016 Rocket (Chassis) that was my dad’s, and we busted it out at Duck River (Raceway Park) in March and won our first race out,” English said. “That kinda kicked me into gear, and I went all-in right there. I started doing a lot more things, started getting more serious and trying to get the ball rolling on everything.

“I was no-doubt working hard up to that point, but I knew I had to win that to even have a shot at making this work.”

The $6,000 victory check had helped to revitalize his operation and set the tone for the rest of his spring schedule. His second-quarter slate included mostly regional and some national-circuit races, producing several top-five and top-10 finishes. Soon, English was loading up the trailer with a brand-new race car and a new plan, at least for a few weeks.

“We started with a new AK Racecar this year,” English said. “I think I had only raced 15 or 20 times before Summer Nationals started, so I really hadn’t gotten a lot of races in. I needed to consistently race just to figure out what these cars needed and what I needed to do to get better. I figured what better way to do it than race every night.”

He decided on a tentative plan for the first week of Summer Nationals, and saw success from the start, posting five consecutive podium finishes and claiming the Week 1 points championship.

“Even though we had a pretty good start to the year, I was still in the negatives, and I just thought, ‘What better way to do it? This is a good way to make some money in a short amount of time and also get better,’” English said. “After those first two races, my head was a little bit above water and I could breathe a little bit and just start racing, get serious and free up some decisions and stuff like that.”

On the heels of good results to start, English decided to stay on the trail. Eleven races in, he had amassed 10 top-five finishes, but no wins yet. A silent frustration built with every missed opportunity.

But finally, after leading all 30 laps at Farmington Empire Speedway on July 1, he broke through for his first Summer Nationals win of the season and seventh of his career.

“I knew it was coming; you can’t run second and third so many times and not win,” English said. “We just tried to just not change what we were doing and not make big swings, and we knew it would come eventually.”

English went to Victory Lane three more times before the summer was out and remained a model of consistency, accruing 17 podium finishes and only two results outside the top 10, both of which were DNFs. Though the typical grind of the Hell Tour can wear down and deplete equipment, English remained resourceful and stuck to his strategy to make it to the end.

“It’s a low-cost deal, which is what a lot of people don’t realize — 30-lap races, so we’re going through… like, there were some times we’d run our right-rear tires three nights in a row,” English said. “That’s what a lot of people don’t understand. It’s not that big of a deal on that level. You can make it big — you can spend a lot of money if you want to, but you don’t have to.”

In the end, English was proud of his accomplishment — not only for his own operation, but for his family as well. Especially his father — the 2002 DIRTcar Late Model national points champion, Terry English.

“[Terry’s] proud, you can tell,” English said. “This has a lot to do with him, too. He put in a lot of work, a lot of time, and sacrificed a lot this summer just to go out there and do that with me. I can’t thank him enough. He and I were the only ones with perfect attendance. We had a lot of people come in and do a week here or there — my brother did two full weeks and my nephew did three. But my dad was there for the whole time.”

Though the sun has set on the Summer Nationals’ 40th anniversary tour, English’s 2026 campaign is far from complete. He’s got plans to go after the yearlong DIRTcar Late Model championship — a feat that would be the proverbial cherry atop the DIY sundae he devoured this year.

“[Terry’s] won the national (DIRTcar Late Model) championship, and I’d like to do that, too,” English said. “We’re gonna give it a shot anyways, at the end of the year here, just to say we tried and try to catch (Jason) Feger. But it’s going to be tough — he’s got a lot of good wins.

“I’d like to get on the list with dad, and my father-in-law also — Rodney Melvin. He’s won a few also, so I’d like to be on that list with them and have some kind of a dynasty deal there. That would be cool.”

The trophy shines bright, the wins are memorable, and the career rejuvenation he went through this summer was an experience he’ll never forget. But above all else, English’s Summer Nationals championship will be remembered for what it said about a self-run operation.

It’s his own. And he likes it that way.

“I felt like I’ve built three operations from the ground up, and it always ended with me having nothing,” English said. “I’d really like to stick this out and see what we can do. It may last another year, you never know — you can have a terrible year right after a good year.

“But this has been a statement that anything’s possible, and if you put your mind to it and work hard enough, you can do it.”

ARTICLE: https://dirtcarsummernationals.com/news/self-made-how-tanner-english-conquered-summer-nationals-with-home-built-team/

Trevor Brunner (No. 21) practices at Senoia Raceway in 2026. He went on to win the Atlanta Short Track. [Photo: Tim Lester for AMA Pro Racing] Download high-resolution photo from AMA Pro’s Digital Asset Management system

Posted on behalf of JMC Motorsport / Fairway Ford DAYTONA BEACH, FL (August 7, 2026) – JMC Motorsport / Fairway Ford –  Trevor Brunner is excited to announce that he will be joining JMC Motorsport / Fairway Ford for the remainder of the Progressive American Flat Track season, competing aboard the team’s KTM 450 SX-F machines in the KICKER AFT Singles class.  “I’m excited to join JMC Motorsport / Fairway Ford for the remainder of the American Flat Track season,” Brunner said. “The team and I have worked well together from the start, and our test sessions have given me confidence in the program and the KTM 450 SX-F. We share the same drive to compete at the highest level, and I’m ready to go racing and make the most of this opportunity.” Brunner and JMC Motorsport / Fairway Ford now turn their attention toward the remaining rounds of the championship, ready to bring their combined experience, preparation, and determination to the racetrack.

Next Up Progressive American Flat Track heads to the historic Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club in Sturgis, South Dakota, for two nights of racing during the 86th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The doubleheader opens with the Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Super TT on Saturday, August 8, followed by the Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Short Track on Monday, August 10. Get tickets to the Progressive American Flat Track events during the 86th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally:

Trevor Brunner Joins JMC Motorsport / Fairway Ford for Remainder of the Progressive American Flat Track Season

Trevor Brunner (No. 21) practices at Senoia Raceway in 2026. He went on to win the Atlanta Short Track. [Photo: Tim Lester for AMA Pro Racing] Download high-resolution photo from AMA Pro’s Digital Asset Management system

Posted on behalf of JMC Motorsport / Fairway Ford DAYTONA BEACH, FL (August 7, 2026) – JMC Motorsport / Fairway Ford –  Trevor Brunner is excited to announce that he will be joining JMC Motorsport / Fairway Ford for the remainder of the Progressive American Flat Track season, competing aboard the team’s KTM 450 SX-F machines in the KICKER AFT Singles class.  “I’m excited to join JMC Motorsport / Fairway Ford for the remainder of the American Flat Track season,” Brunner said. “The team and I have worked well together from the start, and our test sessions have given me confidence in the program and the KTM 450 SX-F. We share the same drive to compete at the highest level, and I’m ready to go racing and make the most of this opportunity.” Brunner and JMC Motorsport / Fairway Ford now turn their attention toward the remaining rounds of the championship, ready to bring their combined experience, preparation, and determination to the racetrack.

Next Up Progressive American Flat Track heads to the historic Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club in Sturgis, South Dakota, for two nights of racing during the 86th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The doubleheader opens with the Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Super TT on Saturday, August 8, followed by the Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Short Track on Monday, August 10. Get tickets to the Progressive American Flat Track events during the 86th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally:

Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Super TT:https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/2026-jackpine-gypsies-super-tt-191302Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Short Track: https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/2026-jackpine-gypsies-short-track-194954

Sheppard and Marlar Take Thursday Night Florence Prelims

Sheppard and Marlar Take Thursday Night Florence Prelims

Sheppard and Marlar Take Thursday Night Florence Prelims

WALTON, KY (August 6, 2026) – Brandon Sheppard and Mike Marlar took top honors in Thursday night’s dual 25-lap features for the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series at Florence Speedway to kick off the 44th Annual Sunoco Race Fuels North-South Weekend. In the first $6,000-to-win main event, Sheppard took the lead from Chris Ferguson on lap 13 and then pulled away for his ninth series win of the season. Garrett Alberson, who passed Ferguson for second on lap 14, then held off a charging Josh Rice for second over the final 10 laps of the race. Rice, the current O’Reilly Auto Parts Rookie of the Year points leader, was debuting a new Rocket Chassis as he rounded out the Big River Steel Podium in third. Donald McIntosh, last year’s O’Reilly Auto Parts Rookie of the Year, was fourth, with Ferguson rounding out the top five. In Wieland Victory Lane for the 44th time in his career, the current championship points leader finally picked up his first win at Florence as he eyes the $75,000 top prize in Saturday night’s 44th Annual Sunoco Race Fuels North-South 100. “I am pretty sure this is my first Florence win. We have been really good in the big race on Saturday a few times. In 2016, I was there at the end and got a flat tire. It’s been one of them places where things haven’t went my way. I felt like we had a pretty decent car in the spring when we were here, so I was excited to come back, especially with as good as we have been running. My confidence is at an all-time high with this race car.” Alberson fought off Rice in a great battle to snag the runner-up spot. “I knew once Josh (Rice) got to third, I was like, alright, we are going to have us a fight right there, you know, because I was a little too tight to really run that top the way I needed to. I kind of had to back it in there, but hats off to Josh. We had a good little race right there. It was a lot of fun, and Sheppy, his car was really good. It’s super balanced right now.” Rice, who entered the weekend having won 13 times at Florence since 2021, rounded out the Big River Steel Podium in third in front of his home-track fans. “That was fun racing with Garrett. I wanted to get to second for Mark (Richards). He worked a lot on my race car this week, and I can’t thank him enough for that. It was just like home. It was typical Florence on the cushion. I was probably a little too tight for the cushion. I probably didn’t have much for Shep, but congrats to those guys.” The winner’s Mark Richards Racing, Rocket Chassis is powered by a Durham Racing Engine and sponsored by Valvoline, Seubert Calf Ranches, Ace Metal Works, Performance Grading, Franklin Enterprises, Sunoco Race Fuels, Gunter’s Honey, Stiles Marine and Maintenance, Fox Shocks, and Collins Brothers Towing. Completing the top 10 in the first feature were Devin Moran, Clay Harris, Trevor Landrum, Bobby Pierce, and Shannon Babb.In the second $6,000-to-win main event, Marlar took the lead from Brandon Overton on lap 20 and held on the rest of the way for his first LOLMDS win of the year. Marlar, who started eighth, led Overton, Hudson O’Neal, Kyle Bronson, and Jonathan Davenport across the finish line for his 24th Lucas Oil win, tying him with Hall of Famer Billy Moyer. Ricky Thornton Jr. led the first eight laps of the 25-lap nightcap until he relinquished the lead to Overton on lap nine. Two laps later, Thornton brushed the wall in turn four, resulting in a right-rear flat tire as he slowed to bring out a caution flag. Overton, who was looking for his first series win since Circle City last year, was in front until Marlar got by him on lap 20 to take over the lead. Marlar then beat Overton to the finish line by 1.244 seconds in a highly competitive race. Marlar, like Sheppard, is looking for his first career Sunoco Race Fuels North-South 100 victory on Saturday night. “I tried to be a little bit of everywhere. The track was just racy, you know. When you’ve got a great track like that, that’s how you’ve got to be. There was a lot of thinking going on in that race and strategies on restarts and stuff like that. It was fun to race with the top guys up here and have a good time and get a win. My car was really good, so I was on offense. When you’re on defense, you don’t want to see those cautions, but when you are on offense, every caution is an opportunity. I want to really thank Mark Richards for his help on the car today. I kind of told him what I was looking for, and he helped me a little bit.” Overton, who led the most laps (11) in the second feature, came home in second. “The other cars had me moving all over the racetrack, and I was kind of holding them off. They said Mikey had a 3 on, so I don’t know if the softer tires, you know, played into it at the end on them restarts. I didn’t feel bad. Honestly, I felt pretty good at the beginning. I know Ricky had a softer tire on earlier. He was doing what he does out front, and he got into the fence, and I don’t know whether that cut his tire down or what. On those restarts, it was hard getting back into a rhythm, and it is what it is. We’re alright.” O’Neal, who started ninth, rounded out the Big River Steel Podium in third. “We worked, and I think we worked in the right direction, and we’ll see tomorrow when we unload. We just found ourselves in really bad positions on those restarts. I felt like my race car was okay. I just jumped the cushion one time and made one mistake and let two or three cars get by me, and then I had to drive back through there to get to third.” The winner’s Ronnie Delk-owned, Rocket Chassis is powered by a Cornett Racing Engine and sponsored by Delk Equipment, Langenfelder Mechanical Contractors, Mesilla Valley Transportation, Petroff Towing, Certain Teed, Can Am Auto Salvage, Fox Shocks, and Spirit Fuel Racing. Completing the top 10 in the second feature were Drake Troutman, Carson Ferguson, Tyler Erb, Ricky Thornton Jr., and Zack Dohm. Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series Race Summary 44th Annual Sunoco North/South 100 Presented by Lucas Oil | Night 1Thursday, August 6, 2026Florence Speedway | Union, KY Allstar Performance Time TrialsFast Time Group A-1: | Frank Heckenast | 16.008 secondsFast Time Group A-2: | Brandon Sheppard | 15.929 seconds Group A Results: Penske Shocks Heat Race #A1-1 Finish (8 Laps, Top 5 Transfer): 1. 22F-Chris Ferguson[3]; 2. 99JR-Frank Heckenast Jr[1]; 3. 18L-Trevor Landrum[4]; 4. 60-Dan Ebert[5]; 5. 32-Bobby Pierce[8]; 6. 16-Justin Rattliff[7]; 7. 18-Shannon Babb[2]; 8. 17SR-Brody Smith[6] Summit Racing Products Heat Race #A1-2 Finish (8 Laps, Top 5 Transfer): 1. 58-Garrett Alberson[1]; 2. 11-Josh Rice[5]; 3. 79-Donald McIntosh[6]; 4. 93L-Cory Lawler[4]; 5. 49M-Luke Morey[2]; 6. 93-Devin Gilpin[7]; 7. 111-Max Blair[3] Cool-It Thermo-Tec Heat Race #A2-3 Finish (8 Laps, Top 5 Transfer): 1. 1-Brandon Sheppard[1]; 2. 99-Devin Moran[2]; 3. 5N-Dustin Nobbe[3]; 4. 4G-Kody Evans[5]; 5. 22-Daniel Hilsabeck[4]; 6. 49G-Billy Green[6]; 7. H22-Brandon Hardgrove[7] Simpson Race Products Heat Race #A2-4 Finish (8 Laps, Top 5 Transfer): 1. 13-Dallon Murty[1]; 2. 81F-Jadon Frame[2]; 3. 6-Clay Harris[3]; 4. 20O-Jimmy Owens[4]; 5. 7S-Justin Smith[5]; 6. 6C-Calvin Carlton[6]; 7. 20-Glenn Hounshell[7] 44th Annual Sunoco North/South 100 Presented by Lucas Oil Group A – Feature Finish (25 Laps):Pos – Start – Car # – Competitor – Hometown – Earnings1 – 2 – 1 – Brandon Sheppard – New Berlin, IL – $6,0002 – 3 – 58 – Garrett Alberson – Las Cruces, NM – $3,0003 – 7 – 11 – Josh Rice – Crittenden, KY – $2,0004 – 11 – 79 – Donald McIntosh – Dawsonville, GA – $1,2505 – 1 – 22F – Chris Ferguson – Mt. Holly, NC – $1,0006 – 6 – 99 – Devin Moran – Dresden, OH – $9007 – 12 – 6 – Clay Harris – Jupiter, FL – $8508 – 9 – 18L – Trevor Landrum – Florence, KY – $8009 – 17 – 32 – Bobby Pierce – Oakwood, IL – $75010 – 21 – 18 – Shannon Babb – Moweaqua, IL – $70011 – 5 – 99JR – Frank Heckenast Jr – Frankfort, IL – $65012 – 18 – 22 – Daniel Hilsabeck – Earlham, IA – $60013 – 8 – 81F – Jadon Frame – Winchester, TN – $55014 – 24 – 93 – Devin Gilpin – Columbus, IN – $50015 – 16 – 20O – Jimmy Owens – Newport, TN – $50016 – 15 – 93L – Cory Lawler – Hanover, PA – $50017 – 19 – 49M – Luke Morey – Zeeland, MI – $50018 – 13 – 60 – Dan Ebert – Lake Shore, MN – $50019 – 20 – 7S – Justin Smith – Barbourville, KY – $50020 – 4 – 13 – Dallon Murty – Chelsea, IA – $50021 – 14 – 4G – Kody Evans – Camden, OH – $50022 – 10 – 5N – Dustin Nobbe – Batesville, IN – $50023 – 22 – 16 – Justin Rattliff – Campbellsville, KY – $50024 – 23 – 111 – Max Blair – Centerville, PA – $500 Group A Race Statistics  Entrants: 59Bilstein Shocks Pole Sitter: Chris FergusonMD3 Lap Leaders: Chris Ferguson (Laps 1-12); Brandon Sheppard (Laps 13-25)Hellraizer Jacks Halfway Leader: Brandon SheppardWieland Feature Winner: Brandon SheppardMargin of Victory: 3.116 secondsHellraizer Jacks Cautions: Justin Rattliff (Lap 13); Dan Ebert (Lap 18)MyRacePass Series Provisional: n/aFast Time Provisional: n/aEmergency Provisionals: n/aTrack Provisional: n/aBig River Steel Podium Top 3: Brandon Sheppard, Garrett Alberson, Josh RicePenske Shocks Top 5: Brandon Sheppard, Garrett Alberson, Josh Rice, Donald McIntosh, Chris FergusonBehrent’s One-Lap-to-Go Top 3: Brandon Sheppard, Garrett Alberson, Josh RicePEM 4th Place Feature: Donald McIntoshDiversified Machine 5th Place Feature: Chris FergusonWilwood Brakes 7th Place Feature: Clay HarrisWehrs Machine 11th Place Feature: Frank Heckenast, Jr.Velocity Manufacturing 13th Place Feature: Jadon FrameXS Power Batteries 15th Place Feature: Jimmy OwensHoker Trucking Hard Charger of the Race: Shannon Babb (Advanced 11 positions)MD3 Most Laps Led: Brandon Sheppard (13 Laps)Sunoco Race Fuels Race for Gas Highest Finisher: Brandon SheppardMidwest Sheet Metal Spoiler Challenge Point Leader: Brandon SheppardO’Reilly Auto Parts Rookie of the Race: n/aPro Fabrication Headers Fastest Lap of the Race: Brandon Sheppard| Lap 1 | 16.329 secondsFK Rod Ends Hard Luck Award: Max BlairVictory Fuel Power Move of the Race: Garrett AlbersonOuterwears Crew Chief of the Race: Danny WhiteARP Engine Builder of the Race: Durham Race EnginesMiller Welders Chassis Builder of the Race: Rocket ChassisDirt Draft Fastest in Hot Laps: Brandon Sheppard | 16.120 secondsTime of Race: 15 minutes 36 seconds Allstar Performance Time TrialsFast Time Group B-1: | Ricky Thornton, Jr. | 15.996 secondsFast Time Group B-2: | Tyler Erb | 15.917 seconds (Overall) Group B Results: Penske Shocks Heat Race #B1-1 Finish (8 Laps, Top 5 Transfer): 1. 20RT-Ricky Thornton Jr[1]; 2. 5-Drake Troutman[2]; 3. 71-Hudson O’Neal[5]; 4. 12J-Jason Jameson[3]; 5. 17SS-Brenden Smith[4]; 6. 11M-Michael Chilton[6]; 7. T8-Steve Banal[7]; 8. (DNS) 96-Josh Vineyard Summit Racing Products Heat Race #B1-2 Finish (8 Laps, Top 5 Transfer): 1. 76-Brandon Overton[4]; 2. 49-Jonathan Davenport[1]; 3. 0-Jake O’Neil[3]; 4. 40B-Kyle Bronson[5]; 5. 317-Blake Creech[6]; 6. 31-Tyler Millwood[2]; 7. 18S-Quade Schoonover[7] Cool-It Thermo-Tec Heat Race #B2-3 Finish (8 Laps, Top 5 Transfer): 1. 1T-Tyler Erb[1]; 2. C7-Adam Stricker[2]; 3. 09-Michael Leach[3]; 4. 3S-Brian Shirley[4]; 5. 126-Kaede Loudy[5]; 6. 17D-Zack Dohm[7]; 7. 15-Brad Rickels[8]; 8. 8-Dillon McCowan[6] Simpson Race Products Heat Race #B2-4 Finish (8 Laps, Top 5 Transfer): 1. 93F-Carson Ferguson[1]; 2. 157-Mike Marlar[2]; 3. 12M-Ryan Montgomery[4]; 4. T1-Todd Morrow[3]; 5. D48-Derek Groomer[6]; 6. 21-Kirk Phillips[7]; 7. 9-Josh Dietz[5] 44th Annual Sunoco North/South 100 Presented by Lucas Oil Group B – Feature Finish (25 Laps):Pos – Start – Car # – Competitor – Hometown – Earnings1 – 8 – 157 – Mike Marlar – Winfield, TN – $6,0002 – 3 – 76 – Brandon Overton – Evans, GA – $3,0003 – 9 – 71 – Hudson O’Neal – Martinsville, IN – $2,0004 – 15 – 40B – Kyle Bronson – Brandon, FL – $1,2505 – 7 – 49 – Jonathan Davenport – Blairsville, GA – $1,0006 – 5 – 5 – Drake Troutman – Hyndman, PA – $9007 – 4 – 93F – Carson Ferguson – Lincolnton, NC – $8508 – 2 – 1T – Tyler Erb – New Waverly, TX – $8009 – 1 – 20RT – Ricky Thornton, Jr. – Chandler, AZ – $75010 – 21 – 17D – Zack Dohm – Cross Lanes, WV – $70011 – 13 – 12J – Jason Jameson – Lawrenceburg, IN – $65012 – 24 – 8 – Dillon McCowan – Urbana, MO – $60013 – 14 – 3s – Brian Shirley – Chatham, IL – $55014 – 6 – C7 – Adam Stricker – Batavia, OH – $50015 – 12 – 12M – Ryan Montgomery – Fairmont, WV – $50016 – 20 – D48 – Derek Groomer – Bloomington, IN – $50017 – 10 – O9 – Michael Leach – Sun River, MT – $50018 – 22 – 11M – Michael Chilton – Salvisa, KY – $50019 – 16 – T1 – Todd Morrow – Penton, AL – $50020 – 23 – 31 – Tyler Millwood – Kingston, GA – $50021 – 19 – 317 – Blake Creech – Richmond, IN – $50022 – 11 – 0 – Jake O’Neil – Tucson, AZ – $50023 – 17 – 17SS – Brenden Smith – Dade City, FL – $50024 – 18 – 126 – Kaede Loudy – Rogersville, TN – $500 Group B Race Statistics  Entrants: 59Bilstein Shocks Pole Sitter: Ricky Thornton, Jr.MD3 Lap Leaders: Ricky Thornton, Jr. (Lap 1-8); Brandon Overton (Laps 9-19); Mike Marlar (Laps 20-25)Hellraizer Jacks Halfway Leader: Brandon OvertonWieland Feature Winner: Mike MarlarMargin of Victory: 1.244 secondsHellraizer Jacks Cautions: Kaede Loudy (Lap 5); Ricky Thornton, Jr. (Lap 10); Brenden Smith (Lap 12); Jake O’Neil (Lap 16); Todd Morrow, Michael Chilton (Lap 17)MyRacePass Series Provisional: n/aFast Time Provisional: n/aEmergency Provisionals: n/aTrack Provisional: n/aBig River Steel Podium Top 3: Mike Marlar, Brandon Overton, Hudson O’NealPenske Shocks Top 5: Mike Marlar, Brandon Overton, Hudson O’Neal, Kyle Bronson, Jonathan DavenportBehrent’s One-Lap-to-Go Top 3: Mike Marlar, Brandon Overton, Hudson O’NealPEM 4th Place Feature: Kyle BronsonDiversified Machine 5th Place Feature: Jonathan DavenportWilwood Brakes 7th Place Feature: Carson FergusonWehrs Machine 11th Place Feature: Jason JamesonVelocity Manufacturing 13th Place Feature: Brian ShirleyXS Power Batteries 15th Place Feature: Ryan MontgomeryHoker Trucking Hard Charger of the Race: Dillon McCowan (Advanced 12 positions)MD3 Most Laps Led: Brandon Overton (11 Laps)Sunoco Race Fuels Race for Gas Highest Finisher: Hudson O’NealMidwest Sheet Metal Spoiler Challenge Point Leader: Brandon SheppardO’Reilly Auto Parts Rookie of the Race: n/aPro Fabrication Headers Fastest Lap of the Race: Ricky Thornton, Jr. | Lap 1 | 16.564 secondsFK Rod Ends Hard Luck Award: Dillon McCowanVictory Fuel Power Move of the Race: Mike MarlarOuterwears Crew Chief of the Race: Josh DavisARP Engine Builder of the Race: Cornett Race EnginesMiller Welders Chassis Builder of the Race: Rocket ChassisDirt Draft Fastest in Hot Laps: Ricky Thornton, Jr. | 15.9031 secondsTime of Race: 20 minutes 53 seconds

Gio Scelzi Opens 360 Knoxville Nationals with Dominant Triumph for Spire Motorsports KNOXVILLE, IA (August 6, 2026) — Gio Scelzi knows how to bring the heat to Knoxville Raceway.

The pilot of the Spire Motorsports No. 77 drove a perfect 20 laps in Thursday’s Xtream powered by Mediacom 360 Knoxville Nationals pres. by Great Southern Bank opener in his hunt for a second career event title with the American Sprint Car Series.

Scelzi and Ryan Leavitt set the front row for the Feature with Chase Randall and Kyle Larson behind the top two starters. The Fresno, CA native jumped to the lead at the drop of the green flag as Randall and Larson overtook Leavitt for the podium positions on the opening lap.

As Scelzi used the bottom lane to establish a pace, Larson followed in tow as Randall attempted to use the high line. Larson’s No. 57 overpowered Randall as he took over the runner-up spot while “Hot Sauce” grew the gap over the field to 1.3 seconds.

When lapped traffic arrived at the halfway point, Larson shaved down the lead by one second as Scelzi struggled in the pack until the sole caution of the Feature flew on Lap 12.

On the ensuing restart, Scelzi scurried away as Randall retook second place from Larson. On Lap 15, Larson came back for the position, then Aaron Reutzel joined the mix by taking third place on Lap 16.

As Larson and Reutzel waged battle for second, Scelzi capitalized by growing the lead to 2.4 seconds as he drove away to his fourth career win in a 360 Sprint Car at the “Sprint Car Capital of the World” and a $3,000 prize.

“The middle got really dirty there midway through the race,” Scelzi said. “I didn’t realize the bottom would come in that fast. I saw Chris (Martin) running it in the B-Main and looked like he was pretty stuck down there. I hit the first corner wide open and I was like ‘Wow, I hope it’s that way in (Turns) 3 and 4.’ Man, this was cool. We had to win to be anywhere decent in points on Saturday, so great job to my guys.”

Reutzel bested Larson on the final lap to solidify Thursday’s podium positions. Randall finished fourth, and 2019 360 Nationals champion James McFadden rounded out the night’s top five.

Recap Notes:

Quick Time Award: Aaron Reutzel (16.267 sec.)

Heat Race Winners: Justin Peck, John Carney II, Tanner Holmes, Austin McCarl, Matt Juhl

C-Main Winner: Jesse Pate

Last Chance Showdown Winner: Chris Martin

Hard Charger Award: Riley Goodno (+11)

UP NEXT: The 36th Xtream powered by Mediacom 360 Knoxville Nationals pres. by Great Southern Bank continues with the second night of preliminary racing for the American Sprint Car Series on Friday, Aug. 7.

KNOXVILLE INFO

Where can you watch every lap of the American Sprint Car Series? Live on DIRTVision.

RESULTS: Feature (20 Laps): 1. 77-Giovanni Scelzi[1]; 2. 87-Aaron Reutzel[8]; 3. 57-Kyle Larson[4]; 4. 9-Chase Randall[3]; 5. 21T-James McFadden[6]; 6. 14-Corey Day[10]; 7. 26-Justin Peck[12]; 8. 11-Justin Henderson[7]; 9. 17GP-Brock Zearfoss[11]; 10. 4J-Ryan Leavitt[2]; 11. 22X-Riley Goodno[22]; 12. 9P-Daison Pursley[5]; 13. 88W-Austin McCarl[15]; 14. 13-Tanner Holmes[14]; 15. 44-Chris Martin[21]; 16. 01-Carson McCarl[18]; 17. 09-Matt Juhl[16]; 18. 71B-Brady Baker[20]; 19. 8C-John Carney II[17]; 20. 64-Kaleb Johnson[24]; 21. 4C-Cale Thomas[9]; 22. 8M-Kade Morton[19]; 23. 86-Timothy Smith[13]; 24. G2-Tony Rost[23]

Gio Scelzi Opens 360 Knoxville Nationals with Dominant Triumph for Spire Motorsports KNOXVILLE, IA (August 6, 2026) — Gio Scelzi knows how to bring the heat to Knoxville Raceway.

The pilot of the Spire Motorsports No. 77 drove a perfect 20 laps in Thursday’s Xtream powered by Mediacom 360 Knoxville Nationals pres. by Great Southern Bank opener in his hunt for a second career event title with the American Sprint Car Series.

Scelzi and Ryan Leavitt set the front row for the Feature with Chase Randall and Kyle Larson behind the top two starters. The Fresno, CA native jumped to the lead at the drop of the green flag as Randall and Larson overtook Leavitt for the podium positions on the opening lap.

As Scelzi used the bottom lane to establish a pace, Larson followed in tow as Randall attempted to use the high line. Larson’s No. 57 overpowered Randall as he took over the runner-up spot while “Hot Sauce” grew the gap over the field to 1.3 seconds.

When lapped traffic arrived at the halfway point, Larson shaved down the lead by one second as Scelzi struggled in the pack until the sole caution of the Feature flew on Lap 12.

On the ensuing restart, Scelzi scurried away as Randall retook second place from Larson. On Lap 15, Larson came back for the position, then Aaron Reutzel joined the mix by taking third place on Lap 16.

As Larson and Reutzel waged battle for second, Scelzi capitalized by growing the lead to 2.4 seconds as he drove away to his fourth career win in a 360 Sprint Car at the “Sprint Car Capital of the World” and a $3,000 prize.

“The middle got really dirty there midway through the race,” Scelzi said. “I didn’t realize the bottom would come in that fast. I saw Chris (Martin) running it in the B-Main and looked like he was pretty stuck down there. I hit the first corner wide open and I was like ‘Wow, I hope it’s that way in (Turns) 3 and 4.’ Man, this was cool. We had to win to be anywhere decent in points on Saturday, so great job to my guys.”

Reutzel bested Larson on the final lap to solidify Thursday’s podium positions. Randall finished fourth, and 2019 360 Nationals champion James McFadden rounded out the night’s top five.

Recap Notes:

Quick Time Award: Aaron Reutzel (16.267 sec.)

Heat Race Winners: Justin Peck, John Carney II, Tanner Holmes, Austin McCarl, Matt Juhl

C-Main Winner: Jesse Pate

Last Chance Showdown Winner: Chris Martin

Hard Charger Award: Riley Goodno (+11)

UP NEXT: The 36th Xtream powered by Mediacom 360 Knoxville Nationals pres. by Great Southern Bank continues with the second night of preliminary racing for the American Sprint Car Series on Friday, Aug. 7.

KNOXVILLE INFO

Where can you watch every lap of the American Sprint Car Series? Live on DIRTVision.

RESULTS: Feature (20 Laps): 1. 77-Giovanni Scelzi[1]; 2. 87-Aaron Reutzel[8]; 3. 57-Kyle Larson[4]; 4. 9-Chase Randall[3]; 5. 21T-James McFadden[6]; 6. 14-Corey Day[10]; 7. 26-Justin Peck[12]; 8. 11-Justin Henderson[7]; 9. 17GP-Brock Zearfoss[11]; 10. 4J-Ryan Leavitt[2]; 11. 22X-Riley Goodno[22]; 12. 9P-Daison Pursley[5]; 13. 88W-Austin McCarl[15]; 14. 13-Tanner Holmes[14]; 15. 44-Chris Martin[21]; 16. 01-Carson McCarl[18]; 17. 09-Matt Juhl[16]; 18. 71B-Brady Baker[20]; 19. 8C-John Carney II[17]; 20. 64-Kaleb Johnson[24]; 21. 4C-Cale Thomas[9]; 22. 8M-Kade Morton[19]; 23. 86-Timothy Smith[13]; 24. G2-Tony Rost[23]

ARTICLE:https://ascsracing.com/recap/gio-scelzi-opens-360-knoxville-nationals-with-dominant-triumph-for-spire-motorsports/

Aug 6, 2026 | Featured, Pre-Race Releases, Special Announcements

Randy Meyer Racing is honored to officially announce that Mitch Kalitta, son of two-time NHRA Top Fuel champion Doug Kalitta, will make his Top Alcohol Dragster debut with the championship-winning team, beginning at the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals in Brainerd, Minnesota, before continuing his rookie campaign for the remainder of the 2026 NHRA season.

For Mitch, drag racing has never just been a hobby; “I have been involved in drag racing my entire life,” said Kalitta. “My dad has been driving Top Fuel since 1998, and I was born in 2001, so it is absolutely in my blood.”

Growing up at Kalitta Motorsports, Mitch began helping on the race cars around 2015 by assembling short blocks and washing parts, and today he continues to work on the team’s championship-caliber Top Fuel operation. While spending years learning the sport behind the scenes, he officially began his driving career last season in Shawn Langdon’s Super Comp dragster at the NHRA U.S. Nationals. Since then, he has competed in several NHRA divisional events, and won the 2026 World Series of Pro Mod bracket race, building valuable experience before taking the next step into Top Alcohol Dragster.

“I really enjoyed learning how to compete in the index classes because they taught me a lot about how to drag race,” Kalitta explained. “I’m excited for this new challenge because Top Alcohol Dragster is much more like the racing I grew up watching and being a part of. The class is incredibly competitive, the race format is identical to Top Fuel, and the driving procedures are very similar. I’ve been fortunate to learn from my dad, Shawn Langdon, and J.R. Todd, who have all shared advice along the way.”

Randy Meyer Racing recently completed a successful licensing process at multiple tracks with Kalitta, beginning with several introductory laps before progressing to full passes.

“I was very fortunate that Randy allowed me to make several laps at Dragway 42 with pretty much nobody there so I could get all the dumb mistakes out of the way before we went to Norwalk,” Kalitta said. “The first day we started running, Randy just let me go out there to see what it was like, and as the day went on I started making my way farther down the racetrack. By the end of testing, I felt very comfortable making full runs and pulling the chutes on time. It was honestly a dream come true.”

For Randy Meyer, helping develop the next generation of one of drag racing’s most recognizable families is an opportunity the team is proud to be part of.

“We’re excited to welcome Mitch to the team,” said Randy Meyer. “He’s grown up around one of the best racing organizations in our sport, and you can see that in how he is preparing himself as a driver. He’s put in the work and was one of the most coachable drivers we’ve been able to license, and we’re looking forward to helping him continue his development.”

Kalitta will make his competition debut in Brainerd before heading to the NHRA U.S. Nationals, an event that carries special meaning for the young driver.

“I’ve probably been to the U.S. Nationals 20 times in my life, so the opportunity to race there is unbelievable,” Kalitta said. “It’s the crown jewel of drag racing. I’m also really looking forward to the Dodge Power Brokers NHRA Great Lakes Nationals because it’s my hometown race and I’ll have a lot of family and friends there cheering me on.”

Kalitta credited his family and both organizations for making the opportunity possible.

“I want to thank Connie Kalitta, Chad Head, and my dad for providing this opportunity to run this car. They’re ultimately the ones who made this happen, and their support has been incredible. It’s also been a pleasure working with Randy, Mary, JJ, and the entire Randy Meyer Racing team. I’m very excited to get to Brainerd.”

Mitch Kalitta Joins Randy Meyer Racing for Top Alcohol Dragster Debut

Aug 6, 2026 | Featured, Pre-Race Releases, Special Announcements

Randy Meyer Racing is honored to officially announce that Mitch Kalitta, son of two-time NHRA Top Fuel champion Doug Kalitta, will make his Top Alcohol Dragster debut with the championship-winning team, beginning at the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals in Brainerd, Minnesota, before continuing his rookie campaign for the remainder of the 2026 NHRA season.

For Mitch, drag racing has never just been a hobby; “I have been involved in drag racing my entire life,” said Kalitta. “My dad has been driving Top Fuel since 1998, and I was born in 2001, so it is absolutely in my blood.”

Growing up at Kalitta Motorsports, Mitch began helping on the race cars around 2015 by assembling short blocks and washing parts, and today he continues to work on the team’s championship-caliber Top Fuel operation. While spending years learning the sport behind the scenes, he officially began his driving career last season in Shawn Langdon’s Super Comp dragster at the NHRA U.S. Nationals. Since then, he has competed in several NHRA divisional events, and won the 2026 World Series of Pro Mod bracket race, building valuable experience before taking the next step into Top Alcohol Dragster.

“I really enjoyed learning how to compete in the index classes because they taught me a lot about how to drag race,” Kalitta explained. “I’m excited for this new challenge because Top Alcohol Dragster is much more like the racing I grew up watching and being a part of. The class is incredibly competitive, the race format is identical to Top Fuel, and the driving procedures are very similar. I’ve been fortunate to learn from my dad, Shawn Langdon, and J.R. Todd, who have all shared advice along the way.”

Randy Meyer Racing recently completed a successful licensing process at multiple tracks with Kalitta, beginning with several introductory laps before progressing to full passes.

“I was very fortunate that Randy allowed me to make several laps at Dragway 42 with pretty much nobody there so I could get all the dumb mistakes out of the way before we went to Norwalk,” Kalitta said. “The first day we started running, Randy just let me go out there to see what it was like, and as the day went on I started making my way farther down the racetrack. By the end of testing, I felt very comfortable making full runs and pulling the chutes on time. It was honestly a dream come true.”

For Randy Meyer, helping develop the next generation of one of drag racing’s most recognizable families is an opportunity the team is proud to be part of.

“We’re excited to welcome Mitch to the team,” said Randy Meyer. “He’s grown up around one of the best racing organizations in our sport, and you can see that in how he is preparing himself as a driver. He’s put in the work and was one of the most coachable drivers we’ve been able to license, and we’re looking forward to helping him continue his development.”

Kalitta will make his competition debut in Brainerd before heading to the NHRA U.S. Nationals, an event that carries special meaning for the young driver.

“I’ve probably been to the U.S. Nationals 20 times in my life, so the opportunity to race there is unbelievable,” Kalitta said. “It’s the crown jewel of drag racing. I’m also really looking forward to the Dodge Power Brokers NHRA Great Lakes Nationals because it’s my hometown race and I’ll have a lot of family and friends there cheering me on.”

Kalitta credited his family and both organizations for making the opportunity possible.

“I want to thank Connie Kalitta, Chad Head, and my dad for providing this opportunity to run this car. They’re ultimately the ones who made this happen, and their support has been incredible. It’s also been a pleasure working with Randy, Mary, JJ, and the entire Randy Meyer Racing team. I’m very excited to get to Brainerd.”

With one of drag racing’s most accomplished families behind him and one of the sport’s premier Top Alcohol Dragster teams guiding his development, Mitch Kalitta now begins the next chapter in a racing journey that has been decades in the making.

The 15 full-time “High Rollers” of Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing are converging upon Knoxville, Iowa this month to fight for the greatest title in sprint car racing: Knoxville Nationals Champion. Although the co-founders of High Limit, Brad Sweet and Kyle Larson, have each won the Knoxville Nationals, a full-time High Limit Racing driver has yet to earn the title. Rico Abreuhas earned two runner-up finishes, in the 2018 NOS Energy Drink Knoxville Nationals presented by Casey’s and in the 2025 event. Fellow High Limit driver GIo Scelzi earned the runner-up finish in 2024. Kerry Madsenfinished second in 2015 and has earned two third-place finishes in 2014 and 2017. The qualifying night fields have been set, with X High Rollers qualifying on Wednesday and X on Thursday. Wednesday Night:Tanner HolmesBrock ZearfossRico AbreuDanny Sams IIIJustin PeckSye LynchKyle Larson (series co-founder)Gio Scelzi Thursday Night:Brenham CrouchTyler CourtneyDaison PursleyChase RandallBrent MarksKerry MadsenAaron ReutzelTanner Thorson This weekend, August 6-9, 10 High Rollers are competing in the Xtream powered by Mediacom 360 Knoxville Nationals presented by Great Southern Bank. Five High Rollers have stood on the top of the podium of the 360 Knoxville Nationals. Rico Abreu won the 2025 event over Larson. Tyler Courtney (2024), Aaron Reutzel (2022), Scelzi (2021) and Madsen (2020) have also won the most prestigious 360 winged sprint car race. The qualifying night breakdown for the 360 Knoxville Nationals is as follows. Wednesday Night: Chase RandallDaison PursleyTanner HolmesBrock ZearfossJustin PeckKyle Larson (series co-founder)Gio ScelziAaron Reutzel Thursday Night:Tyler CourtneyRico AbreuKerry Madsen Hot laps begin each night of both events at 6:45pm, CT. Tickets are available online and each night will be streamed live on DirtVision.The High Limit Room Goes LIVE for the Knoxville Nationals For the first time ever, FloRacing is bringing a pre-race show to “The Granddaddy of ‘Em All” as the Hasty Bake High Limit Room Live Presented by Driven Racing Oil debuts at the Knoxville Nationals next week. Hosted by Chase Raudman, Tony LaPorta, and Brian Walker, the panel will preview and recap the biggest event in the sport at “The Sprint Car Capital of the World” while talking to special guests and serving up fresh and delicious barbeque from Hasty Bake Charcoal Grills. The show will run from 4:00pm-5:00pm CT on Wednesday and Thursday’s (August 12-13) preliminary nights before moving up to 3:00pm-4:00pm CT (August 14-15) during Friday’s Hard Knox program and Saturday’s $200,000-to-win championship finale. Three-time Knoxville Nationals champion Kyle Larson will join the show on Wednesday, current Rayce Rudeen Foundation Rookie of the Year competitor Tanner Holmes comes on Thursday, and former 360 Nationals champion Tyler Courtney and former Kings Royal winner Brent Marks will split Friday and Saturday. You can find the set each day located next to the Hasty Bake Charcoal Grills trailer in the grassy lot next to Braylee’s Diner (formerly Mrs. C’s) and running alongside N Lincoln St near the parking lot where many teams park trailers and work on cars. Each day, fans who buy merchandise at the High Limit Racing trailer will be able to claim free food from Hasty Bake during the show. Any fans who buy merch all week long will also be entered to win a Hasty Bake Charcoal Grill with the winner being announced during the final show on Saturday afternoon. Fans at home will be able to watch the program live on the FloRacing app, the FloRacing FAST Channel – available on Amazon Prime, Roku, Fubo TV, and YouTube – and FloRacing/High Limit Racing Facebook pages.

Pin Trading is Back!  The High Roller Trading Pins return to Knoxville Raceway during the 65th NOS Energy Drink Knoxville Nationals presented by Casey’s! Buy your mystery bags at the Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing merchandise trailer located at Celebrate Church or at any full-time High Limit driver’s merchandise trailer during the week.   An official High Roller Pin Trading event will be held at the High Limit merchandise trailer on Saturday, August 15 at 2pm. Only 100 full sets will be sold!

Remembering the Life and Legacy of Bryan Clauson All of us at Intestate Batteries High Limit Racing and the entire racing community remembers Bryan Clausonnot only for what he accomplished behind the wheel, but for the lives he continues to impact beyond it. A decade ago, Bryan’s deicision to say “YES” to organ and tissue donationcreated a legacy of hope and healing. We’re proud to join Driven2SaveLives in celebrating 10 years and honoring the lasting impact of Bryan’s lifesaving decision. Learn more at Driven2SaveLives.org.Who Will Be the Musco Lighting Most Improved Driver? The first half of the 2026 Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing season has concluded and with that, the first step toward the Musco Lighting Most Improved Driver is complete. The average finish for each High Roller in the opening half of the season has been calculated with series’ point leader, Rico Abreu on top with a 6.08. When the season concludes, each driver’s average finish for the second half will be calculated as well. The driver who made the most improvement in their average finish from the first half of the season to the second will be named the Musco Lighting Most Improved Driver and win $5,000 at the championship awards banquet. Abreu won the award in the series inaugural 2024 season. Sye Lynch earned the award and bonus in 2025. Read more here.

HIGH ROLLERS COMPETING FOR GLORY AT THE KNOXVILLE NATIONALS  The 15 full-time “High Rollers” of Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing are converging upon Knoxville, Iowa this month to fight for the greatest title in sprint car racing: Knoxville Nationals Champion. Although the co-founders of High Limit, Brad Sweet and Kyle Larson, have each won the Knoxville Nationals, a full-time High Limit Racing driver has yet to earn the title. Rico Abreuhas earned two runner-up finishes, in the 2018 NOS Energy Drink Knoxville Nationals presented by Casey’s and in the 2025 event. Fellow High Limit driver GIo Scelzi earned the runner-up finish in 2024. Kerry Madsenfinished second in 2015 and has earned two third-place finishes in 2014 and 2017. The qualifying night fields have been set, with X High Rollers qualifying on Wednesday and X on Thursday. Wednesday Night:Tanner HolmesBrock ZearfossRico AbreuDanny Sams IIIJustin PeckSye LynchKyle Larson (series co-founder)Gio Scelzi Thursday Night:Brenham CrouchTyler CourtneyDaison PursleyChase RandallBrent MarksKerry MadsenAaron ReutzelTanner Thorson This weekend, August 6-9, 10 High Rollers are competing in the Xtream powered by Mediacom 360 Knoxville Nationals presented by Great Southern Bank. Five High Rollers have stood on the top of the podium of the 360 Knoxville Nationals. Rico Abreu won the 2025 event over Larson. Tyler Courtney (2024), Aaron Reutzel (2022), Scelzi (2021) and Madsen (2020) have also won the most prestigious 360 winged sprint car race. The qualifying night breakdown for the 360 Knoxville Nationals is as follows. Wednesday Night: Chase RandallDaison PursleyTanner HolmesBrock ZearfossJustin PeckKyle Larson (series co-founder)Gio ScelziAaron Reutzel Thursday Night:Tyler CourtneyRico AbreuKerry Madsen Hot laps begin each night of both events at 6:45pm, CT. Tickets are available online and each night will be streamed live on DirtVision.The High Limit Room Goes LIVE for the Knoxville Nationals For the first time ever, FloRacing is bringing a pre-race show to “The Granddaddy of ‘Em All” as the Hasty Bake High Limit Room Live Presented by Driven Racing Oil debuts at the Knoxville Nationals next week. Hosted by Chase Raudman, Tony LaPorta, and Brian Walker, the panel will preview and recap the biggest event in the sport at “The Sprint Car Capital of the World” while talking to special guests and serving up fresh and delicious barbeque from Hasty Bake Charcoal Grills. The show will run from 4:00pm-5:00pm CT on Wednesday and Thursday’s (August 12-13) preliminary nights before moving up to 3:00pm-4:00pm CT (August 14-15) during Friday’s Hard Knox program and Saturday’s $200,000-to-win championship finale. Three-time Knoxville Nationals champion Kyle Larson will join the show on Wednesday, current Rayce Rudeen Foundation Rookie of the Year competitor Tanner Holmes comes on Thursday, and former 360 Nationals champion Tyler Courtney and former Kings Royal winner Brent Marks will split Friday and Saturday. You can find the set each day located next to the Hasty Bake Charcoal Grills trailer in the grassy lot next to Braylee’s Diner (formerly Mrs. C’s) and running alongside N Lincoln St near the parking lot where many teams park trailers and work on cars. Each day, fans who buy merchandise at the High Limit Racing trailer will be able to claim free food from Hasty Bake during the show. Any fans who buy merch all week long will also be entered to win a Hasty Bake Charcoal Grill with the winner being announced during the final show on Saturday afternoon. Fans at home will be able to watch the program live on the FloRacing app, the FloRacing FAST Channel – available on Amazon Prime, Roku, Fubo TV, and YouTube – and FloRacing/High Limit Racing Facebook pages.

Pin Trading is Back!  The High Roller Trading Pins return to Knoxville Raceway during the 65th NOS Energy Drink Knoxville Nationals presented by Casey’s! Buy your mystery bags at the Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing merchandise trailer located at Celebrate Church or at any full-time High Limit driver’s merchandise trailer during the week.   An official High Roller Pin Trading event will be held at the High Limit merchandise trailer on Saturday, August 15 at 2pm. Only 100 full sets will be sold!

Remembering the Life and Legacy of Bryan Clauson All of us at Intestate Batteries High Limit Racing and the entire racing community remembers Bryan Clausonnot only for what he accomplished behind the wheel, but for the lives he continues to impact beyond it. A decade ago, Bryan’s deicision to say “YES” to organ and tissue donationcreated a legacy of hope and healing. We’re proud to join Driven2SaveLives in celebrating 10 years and honoring the lasting impact of Bryan’s lifesaving decision. Learn more at Driven2SaveLives.org.Who Will Be the Musco Lighting Most Improved Driver? The first half of the 2026 Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing season has concluded and with that, the first step toward the Musco Lighting Most Improved Driver is complete. The average finish for each High Roller in the opening half of the season has been calculated with series’ point leader, Rico Abreu on top with a 6.08. When the season concludes, each driver’s average finish for the second half will be calculated as well. The driver who made the most improvement in their average finish from the first half of the season to the second will be named the Musco Lighting Most Improved Driver and win $5,000 at the championship awards banquet. Abreu won the award in the series inaugural 2024 season. Sye Lynch earned the award and bonus in 2025. Read more here.

Coming Up…  Following the “Grandaddy of them All” the Knoxville Nationals on August 11-15, Interstate Batteries High Limit Racing travels west for the annual West Coast Swing. August 20 – Santa Maria (CA) SpeedwayAugust 21 – Thunderbowl Speedway in Tulare, CAAugust 22 – Placerville (CA) SpeedwayAugust 27-29 – Silver Dollar Speedway in Chico, CAAugust 31 – Douglas County Dirtrack in Roseburg, ORSeptember 3-5 – Skagit Speedway in Alger, WA

 KNOXVILLE, IA (August 6, 2026) — Sprint Cars and Knoxville Raceway mesh together like peanut butter and jelly. 

The Iowa-based 1/2-mile black dirt facility has hosted car racing since 1901, but the track’s rise in popularity came with the arrival of the 410 Sprint Car edition of the Knoxville Nationals in 1961 and later the 360 Knoxville Nationals in 1991. 

The 36th running of the Xtream Powered by Mediacom 360 Knoxville Nationals pres. by Great Southern Bank takes place Thursday through Saturday, Aug. 6-8, with drivers hunting for a $20,000-to-win payday through 30 laps. 

Let’s take a trip down the decades that shaped the crown jewel of 360 Sprint Car Racing: 

The 1990s 

The final decade of the twentieth century introduced the 360 Sprint Cars one week after the 410 event for what was originally billed as the Limited Sprint Nationals on Aug. 24, 1991, with 58 drivers competing. 

The 25-lap event saw Marshalltown, IA native David Hesmer best Garry Lee Maier to score a $2,500 check and the honors of being the first-ever 360 Nationals champion. Maier got his time in Victory Lane by becoming the first two-time champion with back-to-back wins aboard the Jimmie Rogers Jenkins No. 11x from 1992-93. 

In 1995, the American Sprint Car Series joined the fold to sanction the event, with Danny Lasoski taking the victory before becoming the first driver to win both the 360 and 410 editions of Knoxville Nationals with three scores (1998, 2003-04). Altoona, IA’s Terry McCarl won his first of five 360 Nationals Championship Features in 1996. The 1998 season stores the only event victory for four-time Series champion Gary Wright. 

360 Nationals Winners (1991-99) 

1991 – David Hesmer 

1992 – Garry Lee Maier 

1993 – Garry Lee Maier 

1994 – Lee Nelson 

1995 – Danny Lasoski 

1996 – Terry McCarl 

1997 – David Hesmer 

1998 – Gary Wright 

1999 – Dennis Moore Jr. 

The 2000s

The new millennium began with an Oklahoma takeover as Oklahoma City native Wayne Johnson became the first driver to win the 360 Nationals and the ASCS National Tour championship in the same year. 

Between 2001-05, three drivers won their second career 360 Nationals title, starting with McCarl in 2001, Dennis Moore Jr. in 2003, and Billy Alley completing a back-to-back effort from 2004-05. The outlier of the group was Jeff Swindell, who scored his only victory in 2002. 

The final two drivers to score their first event victory of the decade were Jesse Giannetto and Shane Stewart in 2006 and 2007, respectively. Johnson won his second 360 Nationals Feature in 2008, and McCarl earned his third triumph in the 2009 running. 

360 Nationals Winners (2000-2009) 

2000 – Wayne Johnson 

2001 – Terry McCarl 

2002 – Jeff Swindell 

2003 – Dennis Moore Jr. 

2004 – Billy Alley 

2005 – Billy Alley 

2006 – Jesse Giannetto 

2007 – Shane Stewart 

2008 – Wayne Johnson 

2009 – Terry McCarl 

The 2010s 

Stewart and crew chief Paul Silva became one of the most threatening duos in 360 Nationals history with a record four consecutive Championship Feature wins from 2010-13. In that span, Stewart nabbed the 2011 ASCS National title – the second and last of his career. 

The first driver to topple Stewart’s reign came from Higginsville, MO’s Brian Brown, who scored his first win in the 2014 running in his 15th career attempt. McCarl returned to the top in 2015 for his fourth triumph. In 2016, Sammy Swindell showed that age doesn’t affect speed as he became the oldest driver to win the 360 Nationals at 60 years of age aboard the No. 3s A.G. Rains machine. 

Sioux Falls, SD’s Clint Garner pulled off the upset with the 2017 victory, then McCarl tied Stewart on the all-time wins list with his fifth victory in the 2018 edition. James McFadden became the first Australian driver to win the 360 Nationals with his triumph in the 2019 edition for Kasey Kahne Racing. 

360 Nationals Winners (2010-2019) 

2010 – Shane Stewart 

2011 – Shane Stewart 

2012 – Shane Stewart 

2013 – Shane Stewart 

2014 – Brian Brown 

2015 – Terry McCarl 

2016 – Sammy Swindell 

2017 – Clint Garner 

2018 – Terry McCarl 

2019 – James McFadden 

The 2020s 

McFadden’s time as the only Australian champion did not last long, as St. Mary’s, New South Wales native Kerry Madsen led all 25 laps to win for Big Game Motorsports in the COVID-19-impacted event of 2020. The next year saw a thrilling fight with Giovanni Scelzi besting Daryn Pittman to the twin checkered flags to become the youngest 360 Nationals champion at 19 years old. 

There was an increase in laps from 25 to 30 for the Championship Feature for the 2022 showcase. The added count did not affect Aaron Reutzel, who became the latest former ASCS National Tour champion to win at Knoxville when he took the Ridge and Sons Racing No. 8 machine to his first win. 

Brown returned to the limelight in 2023 by inching to a 0.02-second margin of victory over Reutzel at the finish line for the first $20,000-to-win purse in the event. The last two runnings of the event have seen first-time winners: Tyler Courtney took the Clauson-Marshall Racing No. 7BC to Victory Lane in 2024, and Rico Abreu outdueled Kyle Larson for the win in 2025. 

360 Nationals Winners (2020-2025) 

2020 – Kerry Madsen 

2021 – Gio Scelzi 

2022 – Aaron Reutzel 

2023 – Brian Brown 

2024 – Tyler Courtney 

2025 – Rico Abreu 

ASCS 35: 360 Knoxville Nationals Stores Three Decades of Rich History at “Sprint Car Capital”  KNOXVILLE, IA (August 6, 2026) — Sprint Cars and Knoxville Raceway mesh together like peanut butter and jelly. 

The Iowa-based 1/2-mile black dirt facility has hosted car racing since 1901, but the track’s rise in popularity came with the arrival of the 410 Sprint Car edition of the Knoxville Nationals in 1961 and later the 360 Knoxville Nationals in 1991. 

The 36th running of the Xtream Powered by Mediacom 360 Knoxville Nationals pres. by Great Southern Bank takes place Thursday through Saturday, Aug. 6-8, with drivers hunting for a $20,000-to-win payday through 30 laps. 

Let’s take a trip down the decades that shaped the crown jewel of 360 Sprint Car Racing: 

The 1990s 

The final decade of the twentieth century introduced the 360 Sprint Cars one week after the 410 event for what was originally billed as the Limited Sprint Nationals on Aug. 24, 1991, with 58 drivers competing. 

The 25-lap event saw Marshalltown, IA native David Hesmer best Garry Lee Maier to score a $2,500 check and the honors of being the first-ever 360 Nationals champion. Maier got his time in Victory Lane by becoming the first two-time champion with back-to-back wins aboard the Jimmie Rogers Jenkins No. 11x from 1992-93. 

In 1995, the American Sprint Car Series joined the fold to sanction the event, with Danny Lasoski taking the victory before becoming the first driver to win both the 360 and 410 editions of Knoxville Nationals with three scores (1998, 2003-04). Altoona, IA’s Terry McCarl won his first of five 360 Nationals Championship Features in 1996. The 1998 season stores the only event victory for four-time Series champion Gary Wright. 

360 Nationals Winners (1991-99) 

1991 – David Hesmer 

1992 – Garry Lee Maier 

1993 – Garry Lee Maier 

1994 – Lee Nelson 

1995 – Danny Lasoski 

1996 – Terry McCarl 

1997 – David Hesmer 

1998 – Gary Wright 

1999 – Dennis Moore Jr. 

The 2000s

The new millennium began with an Oklahoma takeover as Oklahoma City native Wayne Johnson became the first driver to win the 360 Nationals and the ASCS National Tour championship in the same year. 

Between 2001-05, three drivers won their second career 360 Nationals title, starting with McCarl in 2001, Dennis Moore Jr. in 2003, and Billy Alley completing a back-to-back effort from 2004-05. The outlier of the group was Jeff Swindell, who scored his only victory in 2002. 

The final two drivers to score their first event victory of the decade were Jesse Giannetto and Shane Stewart in 2006 and 2007, respectively. Johnson won his second 360 Nationals Feature in 2008, and McCarl earned his third triumph in the 2009 running. 

360 Nationals Winners (2000-2009) 

2000 – Wayne Johnson 

2001 – Terry McCarl 

2002 – Jeff Swindell 

2003 – Dennis Moore Jr. 

2004 – Billy Alley 

2005 – Billy Alley 

2006 – Jesse Giannetto 

2007 – Shane Stewart 

2008 – Wayne Johnson 

2009 – Terry McCarl 

The 2010s 

Stewart and crew chief Paul Silva became one of the most threatening duos in 360 Nationals history with a record four consecutive Championship Feature wins from 2010-13. In that span, Stewart nabbed the 2011 ASCS National title – the second and last of his career. 

The first driver to topple Stewart’s reign came from Higginsville, MO’s Brian Brown, who scored his first win in the 2014 running in his 15th career attempt. McCarl returned to the top in 2015 for his fourth triumph. In 2016, Sammy Swindell showed that age doesn’t affect speed as he became the oldest driver to win the 360 Nationals at 60 years of age aboard the No. 3s A.G. Rains machine. 

Sioux Falls, SD’s Clint Garner pulled off the upset with the 2017 victory, then McCarl tied Stewart on the all-time wins list with his fifth victory in the 2018 edition. James McFadden became the first Australian driver to win the 360 Nationals with his triumph in the 2019 edition for Kasey Kahne Racing. 

360 Nationals Winners (2010-2019) 

2010 – Shane Stewart 

2011 – Shane Stewart 

2012 – Shane Stewart 

2013 – Shane Stewart 

2014 – Brian Brown 

2015 – Terry McCarl 

2016 – Sammy Swindell 

2017 – Clint Garner 

2018 – Terry McCarl 

2019 – James McFadden 

The 2020s 

McFadden’s time as the only Australian champion did not last long, as St. Mary’s, New South Wales native Kerry Madsen led all 25 laps to win for Big Game Motorsports in the COVID-19-impacted event of 2020. The next year saw a thrilling fight with Giovanni Scelzi besting Daryn Pittman to the twin checkered flags to become the youngest 360 Nationals champion at 19 years old. 

There was an increase in laps from 25 to 30 for the Championship Feature for the 2022 showcase. The added count did not affect Aaron Reutzel, who became the latest former ASCS National Tour champion to win at Knoxville when he took the Ridge and Sons Racing No. 8 machine to his first win. 

Brown returned to the limelight in 2023 by inching to a 0.02-second margin of victory over Reutzel at the finish line for the first $20,000-to-win purse in the event. The last two runnings of the event have seen first-time winners: Tyler Courtney took the Clauson-Marshall Racing No. 7BC to Victory Lane in 2024, and Rico Abreu outdueled Kyle Larson for the win in 2025. 

360 Nationals Winners (2020-2025) 

2020 – Kerry Madsen 

2021 – Gio Scelzi 

2022 – Aaron Reutzel 

2023 – Brian Brown 

2024 – Tyler Courtney 

2025 – Rico Abreu 

The 36th edition of the Xtream powered by Mediacom 360 Knoxville Nationals will take place from Thursday-Saturday, Aug. 6-8. 

Mountains, blue skies and evergreens frame Arrow McLaren’s Pato O’Ward at Portland International Raceway in 2025

Media Resources: Images | Media Advances | Chevrolet Newsroom

CHEVROLET IN THE NTT INDYCAR SERIES OnlyBulls Grand Prix of Portland1.964-mile, 12-Turn Portland International Raceway road coursePortland, OregonRace AdvanceAugust 7-9, 2026 DETROIT (August 6, 2026) – The NTT INDYCAR SERIES, along with the Team Chevy drivers and teams, travel west to the Rose City of Portland, Oregon, for the 13th contest of the season. The OnlyBulls Grand Prix of Portland is the first of six races in five weeks, a grueling stretch that will decide the 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES champion.  The city-owned 1.964-mile, 12-Turn Portland International Raceway road course, just south of the Columbia River, is playing host to the NTT INDYCAR SERIES for the 32nd time.  Team Penske’s David Malukas, who is still looking for his first career NTT INDYCAR SERIES win, has moved into second place in the title fight after a season-saving drive at Nashville Superspeedway. The 24-year-old recovered after hard contact in practice ended with a trip to the hospital, driving from 25th to third place in the Borchetta Bourbon Music City Grand Prix. Team Chevy’s winners on the season, Christian Lundgaard (Arrow McLaren), Pato O’Ward (Arrow McLaren) and Josef Newgarden (Team Penske) sit in fourth, fifth and sixth place, making four of the top-six in the title fight Chevrolet-powered drivers. Chevrolet-powered drivers have won nine times at Portland International Raceway, including four of the seven races since the series returned to the Pacific Northwest in 2018.  Bowtie-badged drivers have also won four of the seven poles since 2018, with Santino Ferrucci (A.J. Foyt Racing) and Lundgaard grabbing the top spot in qualifying the last two years.  Team Penske has 12 podiums at Portland International Raceway, including six since 2018.

Pato O’Ward Arrow McLaren celebrates a win at the 2026 Indy 200 at Mid-OhioTurning Things Around After a year of less-than-ideal results last season, improving performance on natural-terrain road courses was a point of emphasis for the talented Chevrolet engineers, determined teams and committed drivers. With a pair of natural-terrain road course races – Portland International Raceway and WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca – remaining, Team Chevy’s progress is measurable.  With the same two road-course races remaining in 2025, Chevrolet had scored 101 fewer points than its competition and had not yet won a race on a natural-terrain road course. This season, Chevrolet-powered drivers have won three of four races and outscored their competition by 68 points.  Álex Palou, driving for Honda, had scored almost 100 more points than any other driver on natural-terrain road courses, with the two West Coast road courses remaining. And, only three of the top ten in points on that type of track wore Bowties.  In 2026, Arrow McLaren’s Lundgaard, representing Team Chevy, has collected 37 more points than the next best driver, and five of the top 10 on natural-terrain road courses are Chevrolet-powered drivers.  Lundgaard, with wins at Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course and Road America, has been the strongest driver on natural-terrain road courses, scoring the most points (185) and posting the best average finish (1.5) among all 25 full-time drivers. Malukas, in his first season with Team Penske, has the second-best average finish (4.0) on natural-terrain road courses and has twice stood on the second step of the podium. Natural Terrain Road Course Points with two races remaining (bold = Team Chevy drivers) Christian Lundgaard (Arrow McLaren) – 185 points Álex Palou (Chip Ganassi Racing) – 148 pointsDavid Malukas (Team Penske) – 139 pointsKyle Kirkwood (Andretti Global) – 107 pointsWill Power (Andretti Global) – 100 pointsPato O’Ward (Arrow McLaren) – 96 pointsGraham Rahal (Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing) – 96 pointsScott Dixon (Chip Ganassi Racing) – 86 pointsJosef Newgarden (Team Penske) – 84 pointsRinus VeeKay (Juncos Hollinger Racing) – 75 pointsTune-In Guide Friday, August 7NTT INDYCAR SERIES Practice #1 – 5:30pm (ET)/4:30pm (CT)/3:30pm (MT)/2:30pm (PT) – FS1/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218 Saturday, August 8NTT INDYCAR SERIES Practice #2 – 1pm (ET)/noon (CT)/11am (MT)/10am (PT) – FS1/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218NTT INDYCAR SERIES Qualifying – 7pm (ET)/6pm (CT)/5pm (MT)/4pm (PT) – FS1/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218 Sunday, August 9NTT INDYCAR SERIES Warm Up – 1pm (ET)/ (CT)/7am (MT)/6am (PT) – FS1/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218OnlyBulls Grand Prix of Portland (110 laps)– 4pm (ET)/3pm (CT)2pm (MT)/1pm (PT) – FOX/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218

Team Penske’s Will Power celebrates a win with his crew at Portland International Raceway in 2026

Mountains, blue skies and evergreens frame Arrow McLaren’s Pato O’Ward at Portland International Raceway in 2025

Media Resources: Images | Media Advances | Chevrolet Newsroom

CHEVROLET IN THE NTT INDYCAR SERIESOnlyBulls Grand Prix of Portland1.964-mile, 12-Turn Portland International Raceway road coursePortland, OregonRace AdvanceAugust 7-9, 2026 DETROIT (August 6, 2026) – The NTT INDYCAR SERIES, along with the Team Chevy drivers and teams, travel west to the Rose City of Portland, Oregon, for the 13th contest of the season. The OnlyBulls Grand Prix of Portland is the first of six races in five weeks, a grueling stretch that will decide the 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES champion.  The city-owned 1.964-mile, 12-Turn Portland International Raceway road course, just south of the Columbia River, is playing host to the NTT INDYCAR SERIES for the 32nd time.  Team Penske’s David Malukas, who is still looking for his first career NTT INDYCAR SERIES win, has moved into second place in the title fight after a season-saving drive at Nashville Superspeedway. The 24-year-old recovered after hard contact in practice ended with a trip to the hospital, driving from 25th to third place in the Borchetta Bourbon Music City Grand Prix. Team Chevy’s winners on the season, Christian Lundgaard (Arrow McLaren), Pato O’Ward (Arrow McLaren) and Josef Newgarden (Team Penske) sit in fourth, fifth and sixth place, making four of the top-six in the title fight Chevrolet-powered drivers. Chevrolet-powered drivers have won nine times at Portland International Raceway, including four of the seven races since the series returned to the Pacific Northwest in 2018.  Bowtie-badged drivers have also won four of the seven poles since 2018, with Santino Ferrucci (A.J. Foyt Racing) and Lundgaard grabbing the top spot in qualifying the last two years.  Team Penske has 12 podiums at Portland International Raceway, including six since 2018.

Pato O’Ward Arrow McLaren celebrates a win at the 2026 Indy 200 at Mid-OhioTurning Things Around After a year of less-than-ideal results last season, improving performance on natural-terrain road courses was a point of emphasis for the talented Chevrolet engineers, determined teams and committed drivers. With a pair of natural-terrain road course races – Portland International Raceway and WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca – remaining, Team Chevy’s progress is measurable.  With the same two road-course races remaining in 2025, Chevrolet had scored 101 fewer points than its competition and had not yet won a race on a natural-terrain road course. This season, Chevrolet-powered drivers have won three of four races and outscored their competition by 68 points.  Álex Palou, driving for Honda, had scored almost 100 more points than any other driver on natural-terrain road courses, with the two West Coast road courses remaining. And, only three of the top ten in points on that type of track wore Bowties.  In 2026, Arrow McLaren’s Lundgaard, representing Team Chevy, has collected 37 more points than the next best driver, and five of the top 10 on natural-terrain road courses are Chevrolet-powered drivers.  Lundgaard, with wins at Indianapolis Motor Speedway Road Course and Road America, has been the strongest driver on natural-terrain road courses, scoring the most points (185) and posting the best average finish (1.5) among all 25 full-time drivers. Malukas, in his first season with Team Penske, has the second-best average finish (4.0) on natural-terrain road courses and has twice stood on the second step of the podium. Natural Terrain Road Course Points with two races remaining (bold = Team Chevy drivers) Christian Lundgaard (Arrow McLaren) – 185 points Álex Palou (Chip Ganassi Racing) – 148 pointsDavid Malukas (Team Penske) – 139 pointsKyle Kirkwood (Andretti Global) – 107 pointsWill Power (Andretti Global) – 100 pointsPato O’Ward (Arrow McLaren) – 96 pointsGraham Rahal (Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing) – 96 pointsScott Dixon (Chip Ganassi Racing) – 86 pointsJosef Newgarden (Team Penske) – 84 pointsRinus VeeKay (Juncos Hollinger Racing) – 75 pointsTune-In Guide Friday, August 7NTT INDYCAR SERIES Practice #1 – 5:30pm (ET)/4:30pm (CT)/3:30pm (MT)/2:30pm (PT) – FS1/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218 Saturday, August 8NTT INDYCAR SERIES Practice #2 – 1pm (ET)/noon (CT)/11am (MT)/10am (PT) – FS1/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218NTT INDYCAR SERIES Qualifying – 7pm (ET)/6pm (CT)/5pm (MT)/4pm (PT) – FS1/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218 Sunday, August 9NTT INDYCAR SERIES Warm Up – 1pm (ET)/ (CT)/7am (MT)/6am (PT) – FS1/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218OnlyBulls Grand Prix of Portland (110 laps)– 4pm (ET)/3pm (CT)2pm (MT)/1pm (PT) – FOX/INDYCAR Radio Network/SIRIUSXM 218

Team Penske’s Will Power celebrates a win with his crew at Portland International Raceway in 2026

Chevrolet history at Portland International RacewayChevrolet wins at Portland International Raceway: 9 2025 – Will Power – Team Penske2024 – Will Power – Team Penske2022 – Scott McLaughlin – Team Penske2019 – Will Power – Team Penske1993 – Emerson Fittipaldi – Team Penske1991 – Michael Andretti – Newman Haas Racing 1990 – Michael Andretti – Newman Haas Racing 1989 – Emerson Fittipaldi – Patrick Racing1988 – Danny Sullivan – Team Penske Chevrolet poles at Portland International Raceway: 8 2025 – Christian Lundgaard – Arrow McLaren2024 – Santino Ferrucci – A.J. Foyt Racing2022 – Scott McLaughlin – Team Penske2018 – Will Power – Team Penske1992 – Emerson Fittipaldi – Team Penske1991 – Emerson Fittipaldi Team Penske1990 – Danny Sullivan – Team Penske1988 – Danny Sullivan – Team Penske Chevrolet podiums at Portland International Raceway: 22 Chevrolet podiums at Portland International Raceway by driver: Emerson Fittipaldi (5), Will Power (4), Michael Andretti (2),  Al Unser Jr. (2), Mario Andretti (1), Christian Lundgaard (1), Scott McLaughlin (1), Rick Mears (1), Josef Newgarden (1), Bob Rahal (1), Felix Rosenqvist (1), Danny Sullivan (1) and Paul Tracy (1) Chevrolet podiums at Portland International Raceway by team: Team Penske (12), Galles Racing (3), Newman Haas Racing (3), Patrick Racing (2), Arrow McLaren (2) Chevrolet laps led at Portland International Raceway: 854 Chevrolet laps led at Portland International Raceway by driver: Will Power (233), Michael Andretti (203), Emerson Fittipaldi (182), , Scott McLaughlin (109), Danny Sullivan (46), Pato O’Ward (45), Rick Mears (25), Mario Andretti (3), Josef Newgarden (3), Felix Rosenqvist (3), Al Unser Jr. (3), Callum Ilott (1) Chevrolet laps led at Portland International Raceway by team: Team Penske (488), Newman Haas Racing (206), Patrick Racing (110), Arrow McLaren (46), Galles Racing (3), and Juncos Hollinger Racing (1) Manufacturer History at Portland International Raceway Wins (with competition): 9 – Chevrolet (2025, 2024, 2022, 2019, 1993, 1991, 1990, 1989, 1988)7 – Honda (2023, 2021, 2018, 2000, 1999, 1998, 19964 – Cosworth (1987, 1986, 1985, 1984)2 – Ford (2001, 1992)2 – Mercedes (1997, 1995)1 – Toyota (20021 – Ilmor (1994 Poles (with competition): 8 – Chevrolet (2025, 2024, 2022, 2018, 1992, 1991, 1990, 1988)6 – Honda (2023, 2021, 2019, 2000, 1999, 1996)5 – Ford (2001, 1998, 1997, 1995, 19934 – Cosworth (1987, 1986, 1985, 1984)1 – Toyota (20021 – Ilmor (1995)1 – Porsche (1989)

Event: Iowa Corn 350Date/Time: Sunday, August 9, 2026, 3:30 p.m. ETLocation: Iowa Speedway, Newton, IowaLayout: 0.875-Mile OvalTV/Radio: USA, MRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio

Following a season-best, seventh-place finish at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Josh Berry and the No. 21 Menards/Masterforce Tools team return from the off weekend looking to carry that momentum into Sunday’s Iowa Corn 350 at Iowa Speedway.The 0.875-mile oval near Newton, Iowa, opened in 2006 and has hosted the NASCAR Cup Series since 2024.Berry said he’s encouraged by the success he’s had on similar tracks, including a second-place finish on the relatively flat, one-mile oval at New Hampshire last year.“I thought we had a really good car at North Wilkesboro,” he said. “We worked our way forward and got caught by that caution then immediately wrecked by the 20. That was tough.”Still, Berry is optimistic about the stretch of short tracks ahead.“Iowa, Richmond and New Hampshire are coming up – places that I ran well in the 4 car and the 21 car,” Berry said. “All should be good opportunities to go out and have good races. I think we are positioned to do that, and I’ve got a lot of confidence that going into these next few weeks we’ve got what we need. We just have to go out and do it – unload well and execute these races.”Berry also hopes the team can finally put the run of bad luck behind them.“Lot of times this year we’ve had good cars, just had misfortunes come our way,” he said. “Hopefully we can shake that off our backs and piggyback off of what happened at Indy.”After the off weekend, Berry and his Cup Series competitors return to the track on Saturday with practice beginning at 2:05 p.m. ET, followed by qualifying at 3:10 p.m. ET. Both sessions will air live on truTV.Sunday’s 350-lap race is scheduled to get underway at 3:30 p.m. ET with television coverage on USA. Stage breaks are planned for Laps 70 and 201.

Josh BerryAge: 35 (Oct. 22, 1990)Hometown: Hendersonville, TennesseeCrew Chief: Miles StanleyIG: @joshberry88X: @joshberry

August 6, 2026 — TORRANCE, CA

• This year’s Monterey Car Week – a seminal event for racing enthusiasts – will celebrate Japanese Motorsports
• Honda is one of the most decorated manufacturers – racing and winning at the highest levels of two-wheel and four-wheel motorsports
• Iconic Honda and Acura race machines will be featured at premier Monterey Car Week events: Motorlux, The Quail, Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion and Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance
• Historic race machines to be displayed or demonstrated include championship and race winners from Formula 1®, IndyCar, IMSA, SCCA, Baja racing, MotoGP, Dakar and more

Honda will celebrate eight decades of two- and four-wheel motorsports heritage during California’s famed Monterey Car Week (Aug. 12–16). The showcase includes more than 20 iconic Honda and Acura championship-winning race cars and motorcycles that competed in such iconic races series as Formula 1®, IndyCar, IMSA, SCCA, Baja racing, MotoGP, Dakar, the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy, AMA Supercross, Formula Xtreme and more.

The race machines will be featured at premier events throughout the week, including Motorlux, The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering, the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion (RMMR) at Laguna Seca and the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

“Our founder, Soichiro Honda, believed in competition as a means to improve our company, our engineers and our products and racing became a key part of the corporate culture of Honda,” said David Salters, president, Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC US). “Honda has won at the highest levels of motorsports here and around the world, and we’re excited to share our rich motorsports heritage at Monterey Car Week with more Honda and Acura championship-winning race machines heading to the Monterey Peninsula than ever before.”

Motorsport is deeply ingrained in Honda’s corporate DNA. The company has consistently competed and won at the highest levels of motorsports worldwide. From its inaugural participation in the Isle of Man TT motorcycle race in 1959, Honda has achieved numerous victories and championships on two wheels and four. Notably, Honda boasts an impressive 17 Indianapolis 500 victories, the most among any major auto manufacturer, 25 premier-class Grand Prix and MotoGP Constructors’ Championships, six Formula 1® Drivers’ Championships, and six Formula 1® Constructor’s titles.

Honda Racing Corporation (HRC), the global racing arm of Honda, has been a driving force in motorsports since its founding in 1982, building on the racing spirit that has led the Honda and Acura brands to the top of motorsports’ greatest podiums.

With the support of HRC US, the American Honda Collection Hall, the Honda Collection Hall in Motegi, Japan, as well as team partners and private owners, Honda and Acura will display and demonstrate race and championship winning machines throughout Monterey Car Week. Below is a partial list of race machines to be displayed:

Honda Four-Wheel Activations at Monterey Car Week

Formula 1®

• 1986 Williams Honda FW11 // Demonstration laps at RMMR
  Honda is commemorating the 40th anniversary of its first Formula 1® Constructors’ title.Powered by the 1.5-liter V6 twin-turbo RA166E engine, the FW11 was renowned for its outstanding performance. It claimed nine victories from 16 races during the 1986 season, driven by Nelson Piquet and Nigel Mansell.
• 2026 Aston Martin Aramco Racing Formula One™ AMR26 // Displayed at RMMR
  2026 marks the biggest regulatory reset in a generation as well as the beginning of Honda’s works partnership with the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One™ Team. The AMR26 is powered by the Honda RA626H power unit – a 1.6-liter turbocharged V6 developed with Honda’s advanced electrification technologies.

IndyCar

• Alex Palou’s 2025 IndyCar // Demonstration laps at RMMR
  Alex Palou’s 2025 Indianapolis 500 and championship winning Honda-powered IndyCar is one of the most dominant machines in the series history. The Chip Ganassi Racing driver racked up eight wins during the year and secured his fourth series championship.
• Alex Zanardi’s 1996 IndyCar // Displayed at RMMR
  Honoring the late Alex Zanardi, this 1996 Honda-powered IndyCar, commemorates the life and legacy of the two-time CART champion on the 30th anniversary of “The Pass” – a move through Laguna Seca’s legendary Corkscrew that is still widely considered to be the greatest overtake in IndyCar history.
• Gil de Ferran’s 2001 IndyCar // Demonstration laps at RMMR
  This 2001 Reynard 01i raced by the late Gil de Ferran for Team Penske won the 2001 CART championship. The HRC Heritage Racing Program recently supported the vehicle’s restoration, providing a period correct Honda engine to the car’s current owner, Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing and long-time friend of de Ferran. Brown purchased the car from Roger Penske in 2026.

IMSA

• Acura ARX-06 GTP // Displayed at Motorlux and RMMR
  The Meyer Shank Racing No. 60 ARX-06 won the 2023 Rolex 24 at Daytona—the first race of IMSA’s new hybrid GTP era—with Tom Blomqvist, Colin Braun, Hélio Castroneves and Simon Pagenaud. Developed jointly by HRC US and ORECA, the ARX-06 combines an all-new ORECA LMDh chassis with Acura-designed bodywork, aerodynamics and cooling systems. Its bespoke AR24e 2.4-liter twin-turbocharged V6 was designed, developed and assembled by HRC US.
• Acura Team Penske ARX-05 Daytona Prototype // Displayed at RMMR
  Highly successful prototype racing car developed for the Daytona Prototype International (DPi) class in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. Competing from 2018 through 2022, the Acura ARX-05 secured three teams’, drivers’, and constructors’ championships (2019, 2020, 2022) as well as a Rolex 24 Hour win (2022) with Meyer Shank Racing.
• Acura ARX-01a // Displayed at The Quail and RMMR
  The first race car available for purchase and restoration from the new HRC Heritage Racing Program is the V8-powered #26 XM Satellite Radio AGR Acura ARX-01a, the first purpose-built Acura endurance race car and the first car and engine designed and developed by HRC in the U.S. Winner of the LMP2 class at the 2007 Sebring 12 Hours, its debut race, the Andretti Green Racing “XM” car was driven to victory at Sebring by Dario Franchitti, Bryan Herta and Tony Kanaan.
• Acura NSX GT3 Chassis No. 5 // Displayed at RMMR
  The Acura NSX GT3 recorded 38 class wins in both IMSA and SRO; plus two manufacturers’ championships, five drivers’ titles and four teams’ championships from 2017-2023. Chassis No. 5 is the winningest NSX GT3 of all time and displayed in its iconic “Lady Liberty” livery. This car is currently available for sale by HRC USA.
• Comptech Spice Acura GTP Lights Prototypes // Racing at RMMR
  The Comptech Racing Acura Spice GTP was the first Acura endurance prototype. Driven by Parker Johnstone and powered by a modified 3.0-liter VTEC V-6 engine from the first-generation Acura NSX, it won three consecutive GTP Lights Manufacturers’ and Drivers’ Championships from 1991-1993, and class wins at the 1991 and 1992 24 Hours of Daytona and 1993 12 Hours of Sebring.
• Acura Integra 40 Racer // Demonstration laps at the RMMR
  A first-generation Integra tribute build honoring the brand’s first race car–the Comptech Integra No. 48–which won consecutive IMSA International Sedan Series Manufacturers’ and Drivers’ Championships from 1987 to 1990. The recreated race car was built by HRC US in honor of the 40th anniversary of Acura and made its debut at the 51st Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach.

24 Hours of Le Mans

• 1996 TEAM KUNIMITSU NSX GT2 // Displayed at RMMR and Concours d’Elegance
  Following Honda’s first class win at Le Mans in 1995, driver Kunimitsu Takahashi entered the 1996 24 Hours of Le Mans as a privateer with the No. 75 NSX GT2. Wearing the now iconic RAYBRIG livery, the NSX finished third in the GT2 class – an impressive debut for the rookie team. Returning to Japan, the NSX GT2 entered the Japanese GT Championship (JGTC) with #100 now on the doors. It remains the only right-hand-drive NSX GT2 ever built—a configuration chosen specifically to provide an advantage at the clockwise Circuit de la Sarthe.
• Strakka Racing ARX-01c // Racing at RMMR; Displayed at Concours d’Elegance
  The first of the historic “Acura Racing eXperimental” racing prototypes, the ARX-01 entered the American Le Mans Series in 2007. In 2010, the ARX-01c took on the ultimate endurance challenge – the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Just five years after Honda’s historic first class-win, the Strakka Racing entry repeated the feat, winning the highly-competitive LMP2 class. Recently restored by HRC US, the ARX-01c will compete in the Scott Pruett Legends event at RMMR, driven by current Acura GTP IMSA driver and two-time Le Mans class winner Nick Yelloly.

Japanese Super GT and Endurance

• Honda S800 RSC // Displayed at RMMR
  “RSC” stands for Honda Racing Service Center, the company’s racing enterprise in the late 1960s and early 1970s. A legendary machine to early Honda enthusiasts, this S800 RSC won the GT-1 class at the 1968 12 Hours of Suzuka and finished third overall with a tiny 873cc engine that revs to a 10,500 rpm redline.
• RAYBRIG NSX GT // Demonstration laps at RMMR (Jenson Button)
  Winner of the 2018 and 2020 GT500 class championships in the Japanese Super GT series, the TEAM KUNIMITSU RAYBRIG NSX GT was driven by Jenson Button and Naoki Yamamoto to the 2018 title at the season finale at Twin Ring Motegi. In 2020 driver Naoki Yamamoto won the championship with a pass in the last corner of the final lap at Fuji Speedway.

Touring Car

• Honda Civic 1200 // Displayed at RMMR
  In 1974, Bob Boileau purchased a new Honda Civic 1200 and built the first American Honda road racing car, which would go on to win six SCCA GT5 championships.
• Realtime Racing Acura Integra Type R // Demonstration laps at RMMR
  From 1997 to 2002, the RealTime Acura Integra Type R dominated the SPEED Touring Car Championship capturing 23 race wins on the way to five drivers’ championships and four manufacturers’ championships (1998, 1999, 2000, 2002).
• Realtime Racing Acura NSX // Displayed at RMMR
  Entered the World Challenge GT (née Touring 1) series, the RealTime Racing Acura NSX won eight races between the 1996 – 1998 seasons and the Drivers’ Championship for Peter Cunningham in 1997. The team supercharged the NSX for the ‘01 and ‘02 seasons, earning six more wins.

Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

• Acura Integra Type S DE5 // Demonstration laps at RMMR
  This Acura Integra Type S DE5 has raced to the summit of Pikes Peak four times in the highly competitive Time Attack 1 (TA1) division. Drivers include Loni Unser, Katherine Legge and Dai Yoshihara.  

Baja 1000

• Honda N600 Baja // Displayed at RMMR
  The first race car from American Honda. Powered by a 35 horsepower 600cc air-cooled two-cylinder engine, the microcar competed in the 1970 Baja 1000 driven by desert racing pioneers Dave Ekins and Bill Robertson Jr.

Honda Two-Wheel Activations at Monterey Car Week

Grand Prix / MotoGP

• 2026 Honda RC213V // Displayed at RMMR
  The current MotoGP entry of the Honda HRC Castrol team ridden by Luca Marini and Joan Mir,the RC213V has won seven constructors, six rider and six team championships in the fifteen years from its debut in 2012. The motorcycle is powered by a Honda 1000cc V4 four-stroke engine and achieves top speeds of over 223 mph. 
• Nicky Hayden’s 2006 Honda RC211V // Displayed at RMMR
  Nicky Hayden’s 2006 Laguna Seca and championship-winning machine is one of the most successful MotoGP bikes of all time. With a unique 990cc V5 four-stroke engine (inline-three at the front, inline-two at the rear), the RC211V dominated the premier class, securing 48 race wins, 3 rider championships and 4 constructor titles during its 5-year run. 
• Mick Doohan’s 1997 Honda NSR500 // Displayed at RMMR
  Mick Doohan won the 1997 FIM Grand Prix championship on this bike on his way to five world championships. The 500cc two-stroke Honda NSR500 is an iconic, championship-winning machine that pioneered advanced GP technology, including the notorious “Big Bang” firing order and early electronic fuel injection. Doohan preferred the “Screamer” firing order engine, which is what this bike has. From 1984-2002, the NSR500 was ridden to over 100 race wins, carrying legends like Mick Doohan, Valentino Rossi, Eddie Lawson and Wayne Gardner to 10 riders’ world championships, cementing its legacy as one of the most dominant race machines in motorsport history.

Daytona 200

• Dick Mann 1970 Honda CR750 Replica // Displayed at RMMR
  The racing version of the world’s first superbike—the revolutionary 4-cylinder Honda CB750—introduced in 1969. Honda entered four CR750s in the 1970 Daytona 200 with Dick Mann, Bill Smith, Tommy Robb and Ralph Bryans, some of the best motorcycle racers in the world. Mann went on to win the race, cementing the performance legacy of the Honda CB750 and giving Honda its first Daytona 200 victory.

Dakar Rally

• Ricky Brabec’s 2020 Honda CRF450 RALLY // Demonstration laps at RMMR
  Ridden to Dakar Rally victories in 2020 and 2024 by Ricky Brabec and in 2021 by Kevin Benavides, the Honda CRF450 RALLY features a liquid-cooled, single-cylinder 450cc engine and a massive multi-fuel-tank system designed for long, 250+ mile desert stages. Brabec’s win in 2020 gave Honda its first Dakar victory since 1989. Known as the toughest sporting event in the world, Honda has won the Dakar Rally eight times.

AMA Supercross / Motocross / Supersport

• 2004 CBR600RR AMA Formula Xtreme // Displayed at RMMR
  Canadian motorcycle racer Miguel Duhamel and Honda were dominant in AMA Supersport and Formula Xtreme 600cc racing from the late 1980s through the early 2000s with the rider capturing eight national championships and Honda winning a total of 11 with Duhamel, Doug Polen, Tom Kipp and Nicky Hayden. Duhamel also clinched the 1995 AMA Superbike crown and five Daytona 200 wins from 1991-2005. The production-based CBR600RR race bike features a 599cc transverse inline four-cylinder, DOHC engine with powertrain, brake system, steering and suspension upgrades.
• Jett Lawrence’s 2025 Honda CRF450R // Displayed at RMMR
  Campaigned during the 2024 AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross seasons, Jett Lawrence rode the production-based factory race bike to eight race wins to take the 2024 Supercross championship and won four rounds of that year’s Motocross season. Lawrence also went on to win the 2025 Pro Motocross Championship and SuperMotocross Championship. The bike features a 450cc single-cylinder engine with Unicam® SOHC, four-valve engine.

About Honda Racing Corporation USA 
Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC US) leads all Honda and Acura racing programs in North America and has a rich heritage creating, manufacturing and supporting Honda Racing and Acura Motorsports customers. From pinnacle racing in INDYCAR and IMSA sports cars to grassroots racing programs, HRC US has amassed over 500 race wins and 60 series championships. 

HRC US specializes in the in-house design and development of powertrain, chassis, electronics, racing products and performance parts, as well as technical and race support. The company offers HRC parts and race support services to Honda and Acura racers in North America. In 2024, HRC US expanded its operations to pursue consumer performance parts, merchandise and historic memorabilia sales.

Honda Celebrates Eight-Decades of Motorsports Heritage at Monterey Car Week; Displaying Over 20 Championship and Race-Winning Motorcycles and Automobiles

• Release
• Photos

August 6, 2026 — TORRANCE, CA

• This year’s Monterey Car Week – a seminal event for racing enthusiasts – will celebrate Japanese Motorsports
• Honda is one of the most decorated manufacturers – racing and winning at the highest levels of two-wheel and four-wheel motorsports
• Iconic Honda and Acura race machines will be featured at premier Monterey Car Week events: Motorlux, The Quail, Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion and Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance
• Historic race machines to be displayed or demonstrated include championship and race winners from Formula 1®, IndyCar, IMSA, SCCA, Baja racing, MotoGP, Dakar and more

Honda will celebrate eight decades of two- and four-wheel motorsports heritage during California’s famed Monterey Car Week (Aug. 12–16). The showcase includes more than 20 iconic Honda and Acura championship-winning race cars and motorcycles that competed in such iconic races series as Formula 1®, IndyCar, IMSA, SCCA, Baja racing, MotoGP, Dakar, the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy, AMA Supercross, Formula Xtreme and more.

The race machines will be featured at premier events throughout the week, including Motorlux, The Quail, a Motorsports Gathering, the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion (RMMR) at Laguna Seca and the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

“Our founder, Soichiro Honda, believed in competition as a means to improve our company, our engineers and our products and racing became a key part of the corporate culture of Honda,” said David Salters, president, Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC US). “Honda has won at the highest levels of motorsports here and around the world, and we’re excited to share our rich motorsports heritage at Monterey Car Week with more Honda and Acura championship-winning race machines heading to the Monterey Peninsula than ever before.”

Motorsport is deeply ingrained in Honda’s corporate DNA. The company has consistently competed and won at the highest levels of motorsports worldwide. From its inaugural participation in the Isle of Man TT motorcycle race in 1959, Honda has achieved numerous victories and championships on two wheels and four. Notably, Honda boasts an impressive 17 Indianapolis 500 victories, the most among any major auto manufacturer, 25 premier-class Grand Prix and MotoGP Constructors’ Championships, six Formula 1® Drivers’ Championships, and six Formula 1® Constructor’s titles.

Honda Racing Corporation (HRC), the global racing arm of Honda, has been a driving force in motorsports since its founding in 1982, building on the racing spirit that has led the Honda and Acura brands to the top of motorsports’ greatest podiums.

With the support of HRC US, the American Honda Collection Hall, the Honda Collection Hall in Motegi, Japan, as well as team partners and private owners, Honda and Acura will display and demonstrate race and championship winning machines throughout Monterey Car Week. Below is a partial list of race machines to be displayed:

Honda Four-Wheel Activations at Monterey Car Week

Formula 1®

• 1986 Williams Honda FW11 // Demonstration laps at RMMR
  Honda is commemorating the 40th anniversary of its first Formula 1® Constructors’ title.Powered by the 1.5-liter V6 twin-turbo RA166E engine, the FW11 was renowned for its outstanding performance. It claimed nine victories from 16 races during the 1986 season, driven by Nelson Piquet and Nigel Mansell.
• 2026 Aston Martin Aramco Racing Formula One™ AMR26 // Displayed at RMMR
  2026 marks the biggest regulatory reset in a generation as well as the beginning of Honda’s works partnership with the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One™ Team. The AMR26 is powered by the Honda RA626H power unit – a 1.6-liter turbocharged V6 developed with Honda’s advanced electrification technologies.

IndyCar

• Alex Palou’s 2025 IndyCar // Demonstration laps at RMMR
  Alex Palou’s 2025 Indianapolis 500 and championship winning Honda-powered IndyCar is one of the most dominant machines in the series history. The Chip Ganassi Racing driver racked up eight wins during the year and secured his fourth series championship.
• Alex Zanardi’s 1996 IndyCar // Displayed at RMMR
  Honoring the late Alex Zanardi, this 1996 Honda-powered IndyCar, commemorates the life and legacy of the two-time CART champion on the 30th anniversary of “The Pass” – a move through Laguna Seca’s legendary Corkscrew that is still widely considered to be the greatest overtake in IndyCar history.
• Gil de Ferran’s 2001 IndyCar // Demonstration laps at RMMR
  This 2001 Reynard 01i raced by the late Gil de Ferran for Team Penske won the 2001 CART championship. The HRC Heritage Racing Program recently supported the vehicle’s restoration, providing a period correct Honda engine to the car’s current owner, Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing and long-time friend of de Ferran. Brown purchased the car from Roger Penske in 2026.

IMSA

• Acura ARX-06 GTP // Displayed at Motorlux and RMMR
  The Meyer Shank Racing No. 60 ARX-06 won the 2023 Rolex 24 at Daytona—the first race of IMSA’s new hybrid GTP era—with Tom Blomqvist, Colin Braun, Hélio Castroneves and Simon Pagenaud. Developed jointly by HRC US and ORECA, the ARX-06 combines an all-new ORECA LMDh chassis with Acura-designed bodywork, aerodynamics and cooling systems. Its bespoke AR24e 2.4-liter twin-turbocharged V6 was designed, developed and assembled by HRC US.
• Acura Team Penske ARX-05 Daytona Prototype // Displayed at RMMR
  Highly successful prototype racing car developed for the Daytona Prototype International (DPi) class in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. Competing from 2018 through 2022, the Acura ARX-05 secured three teams’, drivers’, and constructors’ championships (2019, 2020, 2022) as well as a Rolex 24 Hour win (2022) with Meyer Shank Racing.
• Acura ARX-01a // Displayed at The Quail and RMMR
  The first race car available for purchase and restoration from the new HRC Heritage Racing Program is the V8-powered #26 XM Satellite Radio AGR Acura ARX-01a, the first purpose-built Acura endurance race car and the first car and engine designed and developed by HRC in the U.S. Winner of the LMP2 class at the 2007 Sebring 12 Hours, its debut race, the Andretti Green Racing “XM” car was driven to victory at Sebring by Dario Franchitti, Bryan Herta and Tony Kanaan.
• Acura NSX GT3 Chassis No. 5 // Displayed at RMMR
  The Acura NSX GT3 recorded 38 class wins in both IMSA and SRO; plus two manufacturers’ championships, five drivers’ titles and four teams’ championships from 2017-2023. Chassis No. 5 is the winningest NSX GT3 of all time and displayed in its iconic “Lady Liberty” livery. This car is currently available for sale by HRC USA.
• Comptech Spice Acura GTP Lights Prototypes // Racing at RMMR
  The Comptech Racing Acura Spice GTP was the first Acura endurance prototype. Driven by Parker Johnstone and powered by a modified 3.0-liter VTEC V-6 engine from the first-generation Acura NSX, it won three consecutive GTP Lights Manufacturers’ and Drivers’ Championships from 1991-1993, and class wins at the 1991 and 1992 24 Hours of Daytona and 1993 12 Hours of Sebring.
• Acura Integra 40 Racer // Demonstration laps at the RMMR
  A first-generation Integra tribute build honoring the brand’s first race car–the Comptech Integra No. 48–which won consecutive IMSA International Sedan Series Manufacturers’ and Drivers’ Championships from 1987 to 1990. The recreated race car was built by HRC US in honor of the 40th anniversary of Acura and made its debut at the 51st Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach.

24 Hours of Le Mans

• 1996 TEAM KUNIMITSU NSX GT2 // Displayed at RMMR and Concours d’Elegance
  Following Honda’s first class win at Le Mans in 1995, driver Kunimitsu Takahashi entered the 1996 24 Hours of Le Mans as a privateer with the No. 75 NSX GT2. Wearing the now iconic RAYBRIG livery, the NSX finished third in the GT2 class – an impressive debut for the rookie team. Returning to Japan, the NSX GT2 entered the Japanese GT Championship (JGTC) with #100 now on the doors. It remains the only right-hand-drive NSX GT2 ever built—a configuration chosen specifically to provide an advantage at the clockwise Circuit de la Sarthe.
• Strakka Racing ARX-01c // Racing at RMMR; Displayed at Concours d’Elegance
  The first of the historic “Acura Racing eXperimental” racing prototypes, the ARX-01 entered the American Le Mans Series in 2007. In 2010, the ARX-01c took on the ultimate endurance challenge – the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Just five years after Honda’s historic first class-win, the Strakka Racing entry repeated the feat, winning the highly-competitive LMP2 class. Recently restored by HRC US, the ARX-01c will compete in the Scott Pruett Legends event at RMMR, driven by current Acura GTP IMSA driver and two-time Le Mans class winner Nick Yelloly.

Japanese Super GT and Endurance

• Honda S800 RSC // Displayed at RMMR
  “RSC” stands for Honda Racing Service Center, the company’s racing enterprise in the late 1960s and early 1970s. A legendary machine to early Honda enthusiasts, this S800 RSC won the GT-1 class at the 1968 12 Hours of Suzuka and finished third overall with a tiny 873cc engine that revs to a 10,500 rpm redline.
• RAYBRIG NSX GT // Demonstration laps at RMMR (Jenson Button)
  Winner of the 2018 and 2020 GT500 class championships in the Japanese Super GT series, the TEAM KUNIMITSU RAYBRIG NSX GT was driven by Jenson Button and Naoki Yamamoto to the 2018 title at the season finale at Twin Ring Motegi. In 2020 driver Naoki Yamamoto won the championship with a pass in the last corner of the final lap at Fuji Speedway.

Touring Car

• Honda Civic 1200 // Displayed at RMMR
  In 1974, Bob Boileau purchased a new Honda Civic 1200 and built the first American Honda road racing car, which would go on to win six SCCA GT5 championships.
• Realtime Racing Acura Integra Type R // Demonstration laps at RMMR
  From 1997 to 2002, the RealTime Acura Integra Type R dominated the SPEED Touring Car Championship capturing 23 race wins on the way to five drivers’ championships and four manufacturers’ championships (1998, 1999, 2000, 2002).
• Realtime Racing Acura NSX // Displayed at RMMR
  Entered the World Challenge GT (née Touring 1) series, the RealTime Racing Acura NSX won eight races between the 1996 – 1998 seasons and the Drivers’ Championship for Peter Cunningham in 1997. The team supercharged the NSX for the ‘01 and ‘02 seasons, earning six more wins.

Pikes Peak International Hill Climb

• Acura Integra Type S DE5 // Demonstration laps at RMMR
  This Acura Integra Type S DE5 has raced to the summit of Pikes Peak four times in the highly competitive Time Attack 1 (TA1) division. Drivers include Loni Unser, Katherine Legge and Dai Yoshihara.  

Baja 1000

• Honda N600 Baja // Displayed at RMMR
  The first race car from American Honda. Powered by a 35 horsepower 600cc air-cooled two-cylinder engine, the microcar competed in the 1970 Baja 1000 driven by desert racing pioneers Dave Ekins and Bill Robertson Jr.

Honda Two-Wheel Activations at Monterey Car Week

Grand Prix / MotoGP

• 2026 Honda RC213V // Displayed at RMMR
  The current MotoGP entry of the Honda HRC Castrol team ridden by Luca Marini and Joan Mir,the RC213V has won seven constructors, six rider and six team championships in the fifteen years from its debut in 2012. The motorcycle is powered by a Honda 1000cc V4 four-stroke engine and achieves top speeds of over 223 mph. 
• Nicky Hayden’s 2006 Honda RC211V // Displayed at RMMR
  Nicky Hayden’s 2006 Laguna Seca and championship-winning machine is one of the most successful MotoGP bikes of all time. With a unique 990cc V5 four-stroke engine (inline-three at the front, inline-two at the rear), the RC211V dominated the premier class, securing 48 race wins, 3 rider championships and 4 constructor titles during its 5-year run. 
• Mick Doohan’s 1997 Honda NSR500 // Displayed at RMMR
  Mick Doohan won the 1997 FIM Grand Prix championship on this bike on his way to five world championships. The 500cc two-stroke Honda NSR500 is an iconic, championship-winning machine that pioneered advanced GP technology, including the notorious “Big Bang” firing order and early electronic fuel injection. Doohan preferred the “Screamer” firing order engine, which is what this bike has. From 1984-2002, the NSR500 was ridden to over 100 race wins, carrying legends like Mick Doohan, Valentino Rossi, Eddie Lawson and Wayne Gardner to 10 riders’ world championships, cementing its legacy as one of the most dominant race machines in motorsport history.

Daytona 200

• Dick Mann 1970 Honda CR750 Replica // Displayed at RMMR
  The racing version of the world’s first superbike—the revolutionary 4-cylinder Honda CB750—introduced in 1969. Honda entered four CR750s in the 1970 Daytona 200 with Dick Mann, Bill Smith, Tommy Robb and Ralph Bryans, some of the best motorcycle racers in the world. Mann went on to win the race, cementing the performance legacy of the Honda CB750 and giving Honda its first Daytona 200 victory.

Dakar Rally

• Ricky Brabec’s 2020 Honda CRF450 RALLY // Demonstration laps at RMMR
  Ridden to Dakar Rally victories in 2020 and 2024 by Ricky Brabec and in 2021 by Kevin Benavides, the Honda CRF450 RALLY features a liquid-cooled, single-cylinder 450cc engine and a massive multi-fuel-tank system designed for long, 250+ mile desert stages. Brabec’s win in 2020 gave Honda its first Dakar victory since 1989. Known as the toughest sporting event in the world, Honda has won the Dakar Rally eight times.

AMA Supercross / Motocross / Supersport

• 2004 CBR600RR AMA Formula Xtreme // Displayed at RMMR
  Canadian motorcycle racer Miguel Duhamel and Honda were dominant in AMA Supersport and Formula Xtreme 600cc racing from the late 1980s through the early 2000s with the rider capturing eight national championships and Honda winning a total of 11 with Duhamel, Doug Polen, Tom Kipp and Nicky Hayden. Duhamel also clinched the 1995 AMA Superbike crown and five Daytona 200 wins from 1991-2005. The production-based CBR600RR race bike features a 599cc transverse inline four-cylinder, DOHC engine with powertrain, brake system, steering and suspension upgrades.
• Jett Lawrence’s 2025 Honda CRF450R // Displayed at RMMR
  Campaigned during the 2024 AMA Supercross and Pro Motocross seasons, Jett Lawrence rode the production-based factory race bike to eight race wins to take the 2024 Supercross championship and won four rounds of that year’s Motocross season. Lawrence also went on to win the 2025 Pro Motocross Championship and SuperMotocross Championship. The bike features a 450cc single-cylinder engine with Unicam® SOHC, four-valve engine.

About Honda Racing Corporation USA 
Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC US) leads all Honda and Acura racing programs in North America and has a rich heritage creating, manufacturing and supporting Honda Racing and Acura Motorsports customers. From pinnacle racing in INDYCAR and IMSA sports cars to grassroots racing programs, HRC US has amassed over 500 race wins and 60 series championships. 

HRC US specializes in the in-house design and development of powertrain, chassis, electronics, racing products and performance parts, as well as technical and race support. The company offers HRC parts and race support services to Honda and Acura racers in North America. In 2024, HRC US expanded its operations to pursue consumer performance parts, merchandise and historic memorabilia sales.

https://hondaracing-us.honda.com

WORLD SERIES OF PRO MOD MOVING TO TEXAS MOTORPLEX IN 2027  DALLAS (August 5, 2026) — Drag Illustrated is taking the World Series of Pro Mod to Texas. The World Series of Pro Mod, one of the most prestigious events on the drag racing calendar, will move to the historic Texas Motorplex in 2027. The event is scheduled for March 5-7, 2027, bringing the high-powered Pro Mod spectacle to one of drag racing’s most iconic venues. The announcement was made Wednesday during The Wes Buck Show, hosted by Drag Illustrated founder and World Series of Pro Mod creator Wes Buck. “The World Series of Pro Mod has always been about creating something that feels bigger than just another drag race, and moving it to Texas Motorplex gives us an opportunity to take that vision to another level,” said Buck. “This is one of the most iconic facilities in drag racing, and the people behind Texas Motorplex understand what it takes to build an event that racers want to be part of and fans want to experience. Christie and her team have been incredible to work with, and we’re excited about what we can build together. March 5-7, 2027 are going to be dates Pro Mod racers and fans need to have circled.”2026 World Series of Pro Mod winner Aaron Stanfield poses in the Winner’s Circle with the trophy, photo credit Luke Nieuwhof

The move marks an exciting new chapter for the World Series of Pro Mod, which has established itself as a marquee event for Pro Mod racers and fans. Texas Motorplex, meanwhile, provides an ideal setting for the event with its rich history, passionate Texas drag racing fan base and reputation for hosting major motorsports events. “The World Series of Pro Mod belongs in Texas, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome it to the historic Texas Motorplex,” said Christie Meyer Johnson, Co-Owner & General Manager, Texas Motorplex. “It’s an honor that Wes chose to partner with us, and we’re ready to roll up our sleeves and help grow this event into something even bigger than anyone imagined. We love building experiences that racers and fans remember, and this is another opportunity to do just that. Adding the World Series of Pro Mod to our already packed spring schedule is a huge win for Texas motorsports, and we can’t wait to show everyone what this partnership can become. We’re not just hosting an event, we’re committed to helping take it to the next level.”A huge crowd at the historic Texas Motorplex, photo credit Drag IllustratedThe World Series of Pro Mod has become a must-attend event for the class, bringing together many of the sport’s top Pro Mod competitors for a high-stakes showcase of performance, competition and innovation. The event features a no-holds-barred, chip-draw shootout where only the best survive. There are no qualifying ladders, no easy rounds and every matchup is a main event. Fans can expect a full weekend of elite-level racing, driver introductions, autograph sessions, pyrotechnics, music and food. The Texas Motorplex move is expected to further elevate the event, with Drag Illustrated and the Texas Motorplex working together to create an experience that extends beyond the racing surface. “The goal is to make the World Series of Pro Mod something that people talk about long after the last car has left the property,” said Buck. “Texas Motorplex has the history, the facility and the team to help us do that. We’re just getting started.”2026 World Series of Pro Mod winner Aaron Stanfield poses in the Winner’s Circle with his team, photo credit Chris SimmonsAdditional details regarding the 2027 World Series of Pro Mod, including racer information, event format, ticketing, schedules and other announcements, will be released in the coming months. Information can be found at worldseriesofpromod.comand dragillustrated.com. Fans can also follow Drag Illustrated on social media at Drag Illustrated on Facebook and @dragillustrated on Instagram.  The World Series of Pro Mod will take place March 5-7, 2027, at Texas Motorplex in Ennis, Texas.

TEAM CHEVY ADVANCE Iowa SpeedwayAugust 8-9, 2026

MEDIA RESOURCES: Photo Gallery | Race AdvancesChevrolet Newsroom

The end of the 2026 regular season is on the horizon, and for the NASCAR Cup and O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, that journey continues this weekend with a trip to the heart of the “Hawkeye State” to take on Iowa Speedway – a track where Chevrolet reigns as the defending winner in NASCAR’s premier series. Saturday’s Hy-Vee Perks 250 will mark the penultimate race of the O’Reilly Series regular season schedule, with six Team Chevy drivers heading into the weekend with a solidified spot in the title hunt. The Cup Series will round out the weekend on Sunday with the Iowa Corn 350 Powered by Ethanol – the first of three-straight short-track events en route to the regular season finale.

BYRON’S HAWKEYE STATE HISTORY Recharged from the off weekend, combined with a visit to one of his statistically strongest tracks, look for William Byron and the No. 24 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet team to be a threat come Sunday’s 350-lap race. While the sport’s history at Iowa Speedway is short, Byron’s resume is unmatched – highlighted by a feat that sees him as one of just two drivers in history that has a win in all three NASCAR national touring series at the track. In the Cup Series, the North Carolina native hasn’t finished outside the top-two, including his win in last season’s event, to earn a series-best average finish of 1.5. In its companion series, it took just one start for Byron to break into victory lane – earning his one O’Reilly Series win with JR Motorsports in 2017 and one Craftsman Truck Series win with Kyle Busch Motorsports in 2016.

HOCEVAR’S CAREER SEASON CONTINUESCarson Hocevar’s third full-time NASCAR Cup Series campaign has been nothing short of impressive, and he only built upon that in the “Racing Capital of the World”. For the fourth time this season, the Michigan native was the Bowtie brigade’s top finisher when he led the manufacturer with a top-10 result in the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The finish, along with a bank of the second-highest points of the day, propelled Hocevar up two positions to make his first appearance in the top-five of the standings. Hocevar has been a steady fixture above the Chase cutline throughout the season, a large part due to consistency that has seen the young Team Chevy driver earn a season average finish of 14.01 – a feat nearly nine positions improved compared to the record book he had at this point of the season in 2025.

THE SITE OF STENHOUSE’S FIRSTIowa Speedway is the site that made Ricky Stenhouse Jr. a first-time winner in the NASCAR national ranks. Rewinding to 2011 and his sophomore season in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, Stenhouse Jr. made his first trip to victory lane at Iowa, going on to reel off three-straight at the track (2011 sweep; May 2012) – a record streak in the division that still stands today. Returning to the track 12 years later for the Cup Series’ inaugural event, the Mississippi native quickly found his footing around the 7/8-mile oval to earn a top-five finish.

MAYER ON THE BRINK OF A RECORD STREAKEntering the penultimate race of the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series regular season with a 29-point advantage over the cutline, there’s no better track than Iowa Speedway for Sam Mayer and the No. 41 Haas Factory Team to further build onto that cushion. Since the series return to the track in 2024, Mayer has earned back-to-back trips to victory lane. A win in Saturday’s race would tie the series’ record streak at the track, which is currently held by fellow Team Chevy driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. Mayer’s two career Iowa starts nearly mirror each other, with the pair of wins accompanied by fifth-place qualifying efforts and top-four finishes in each stage.

KVAPIL ROCKETS UP THE RANKSCarson Kvapil conquered the historic Indianapolis Motor Speedway oval to earn his first career win in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Part Series. With a 69-point day, the best of the race by 20 points over veteran driver Justin Allgaier, Kvapil made the biggest move up the standings to a career-best rank of second heading into the Iowa race weekend. With a campaign that has seen the driver compete with three different team and crew chief pairings, his early berth into the Chase is even more impressive.

Another Record on the Horizon for JR Motorsports: A storybook season continues for JR Motorsports with Kvapil’s Indianapolis victory marking the organization’s 14th trip to victory lane this season – boosting its winning percentage to 63.6 percent on the season. Kvapil, the sixth different driver to earn a win under the JRM banner this season, also led the organization to one-two-three-four finish – making them the first organization in series’ history to sweep the top-four finishing positions of a race. The organization sits at now 79 consecutive races with at least one finish in the top-10 – tying the record previously set by RFK Racing.

BOWTIE BULLETS:·        Chevrolet will serve as the official pace vehicle for the Iowa Speedway race weekend with the Corvette Stingray pacing the NASCAR Cup and O’Reilly Auto Parts Series in their respective events.  ·        Victories by active Chevrolet drivers in the NASCAR national ranks at Iowa Speedway: NASCAR Cup SeriesWilliam Byron – one win (Aug. 2025) NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts SeriesRicky Stenhouse Jr. – three wins (2011 sweep; May 2012) Sam Mayer – two wins (Aug. 2025; June 2024) Justin Allgaier – one win (June 2018)William Byron – one win (June 2017) NASCAR Craftsman Truck SeriesWilliam Byron – one win (June 2016)Austin Dillon – one win (July 2010)  ·        With Grant Enfinger’s win at Lime Rock Park, Chevrolet sits just two wins away from its milestone 300th all-time NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series win.  ·        With seven-straight victories to start the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series season, Chevrolet set the record for the longest season-opening streak by a single manufacturer in the division’s history.  ·        In 165 points-paying races in the NASCAR Cup Series Next Gen era, Chevrolet leads all manufacturers with 73 victories – a winning percentage of 44.2%.  ·        Chevrolet is coming off its 29th all-time sweep of the NASCAR Cup Series championship titles – capturing its 34th driver championship and 44th, and fifth consecutive, manufacturer championship in 2025.  ·        With its 44 NASCAR Cup Series manufacturer championships, 34 NASCAR Cup Series driver championships, and 887 all-time NASCAR Cup Series wins, Chevrolet continues to hold the title as the winningest brand in NASCAR Cup Series history.    FOR THE FANS:Fans can visit the Team Chevy Racing Display in the Fan Midway at Iowa Speedway, which features a variety of vehicles including: Silverado 2500 LTZ, Tahoe High Country, Silverado 1500 LTZ, Equinox EV RS, Traverse RS, Corvette Z06, Blazer EV SS, Colorado ZR2, NASCAR Cup Series Camaro ZL1 show car. Chevrolet Display Hours of Operation:Friday, August 7: 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Saturday, August 8: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Sunday, August 9: 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.  Team Chevy Driver Appearances at the Display:Saturday, August 8: Ricky Stenhouse Jr.: 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Michael McDowell: 11:15 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Justin Allgaier & Carson Kvapil: 12:45 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Sammy Smith & Rajah Caruth: 1:30 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. Sunday, August 9: Austin Dillon: 10:35 a.m. – 10:50 a.m. Kyle Larson: 10:50 a.m. – 11:05 a.m. Ross Chastain & Shane van Gisbergen: 11:20 a.m. – 11:35 a.m. Daniel Suarez: 11:35 a.m. – 11:50 a.m.  William Byron: 12:00 p.m. – 12:15 p.m.

TUNE-IN:NASCAR Cup SeriesIowa Corn 350 Powered by EthanolSunday, Aug. 9, at 3:30 p.m. ETUSA Network, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90  NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Hy-Vee Perks 250Saturday, Aug. 8, at 5 p.m. ETCW, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90

QUOTABLE QUOTES:Ross Chastain, No. 1 Trackhouse Racing ChevroletThere’s a little different look to your Busch Light car this weekend?“Being an eighth generation watermelon farmer, agriculture and farming are really important to me. It’s awesome to be able to drive Busch Light’s ‘For the Farmers’ paint scheme this weekend at Iowa. There’s no better place to do it since Iowa since is farm country. When you drive up to the speedway, it’s surrounded by green fields. Farmers and farming are very important for providing food for our population and there’s no Busch Light without ingredients grown by farmers.” You had a weekend off. Are you excited to get back to the track?“I’m excited for the 50 minute practice this weekend at Iowa. I support having one longer practice session and I’m happy NASCAR has made some adjustments to move in that direction. I hope our Busch Light ‘For the Farmers’ Chevy is good to start with in practice and all we have to do is make a few minor adjustments. I love racing at Iowa Speedway. The surface is weathered and rough which makes it challenging to drive and you really have to hit your marks perfectly.”   Austin Dillon, No. 3 Richard Childress Racing ChevroletWhat makes Iowa Speedway stand out? “Iowa is a short track, it’s got a lot of character, hard winters, hot summers. It’s fun to go there. We’ll try to work on the balance of the No. 3 Get Bioethanol Chevrolet to make sure we can get through the bumps and be sure to take care of our tires. I think this race is going to be one of the best ones because of how aged the track is.”   Daniel Suarez, No. 7 Spire Motorsports ChevroletWhat does Iowa mean to you and what will it take to be successful this weekend?“Iowa Speedway is a special place for me because I have a lot of history there. From my K&N days to my time in the O’Reilly Series, it’s a track where I learned a lot and built a lot of confidence. Coming back now with Spire Motorsports, the goal is to take everything I’ve learned over the years and use that experience to help our team keep improving. Iowa is the kind of place where myself, my crew, and the setup all have to work together, and that’s what makes it such a challenge and such a fun track to race.”   Ty Dillon, No. 10 Kaulig Racing ChevroletWhy have you enjoyed success at Iowa Speedway?“Iowa Speedway is one of those places where, when I show up, I feel really comfortable with the track. It’s a place where I’ve logged a lot of laps over the course of my career, and I’ve always enjoyed going there. Iowa is a short track, but it feels like a mile-and-a-half in some ways because of the speeds you can carry.” What do you expect this weekend?“The end of the race gets quite wild and there’s a lot of crashes. I think that’s one thing that gives me confidence every time there is that I know when it gets chaotic, I feel comfortable. Give me less practice, give me less qualifying and give us some crazy. When there is chaos, I feel calm in the chaos. This is one of those tracks that seems to induce some of that at the end of restarts.”   AJ Allmendinger, No. 16 Kaulig Racing Chevrolet How was your off weekend and what is your impression of Iowa?“It was nice to have a rare off weekend to reset, spend time with family, and play a lot of golf. Iowa Speedway is a unique and fun racetrack with some really bumpy sections. There aren’t many tracks like it, and I think that’s what makes it enjoyable. We weren’t as good as we hoped to be in our first year there, but last year we were much closer and had decent speed. Hopefully, we can build on our short-track program, put together a strong run, and come away with a solid result.” What is an important lesson you are carrying with you into Iowa?“For me, I’m always going to race hard, but if you push too much, that’s when mistakes happen. The goal is to not make mistakes and put ourselves in a good position at the end of the race so we have a chance for a strong finish. I think we can do that at Iowa.” Austin Hill, No. 33 Richard Childress Racing ChevroletWhat is your mindset heading into Iowa Speedway?“Iowa should be a good challenge for our Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen team. I’ve watched past races and spent time in the simulator to prep for this weekend. Austin (Dillon) and the No. 3 team were solid there last year and left with a top-10 finish, so we are going to use their notes to put us close at the start of practice. Getting a full 50-minute practice session now should be good for our team, because it allows myself to have more laps to learn the track in the Cup car and also allows Andy (Street, crew chief) and the guys to make a few more adjustments. If we execute throughout the weekend, I think we can have a good finish.”   Ricky Stenhouse Jr., No. 47 Hyak Motorsports Chevrolet“We’re ready to get back to racing after the off week. It was nice to have a little time to reset, but everyone at Hyak Motorsports is excited to get back to the track. Iowa is a fun place to race because it’s fast, technical, and the racing gets pretty intense. Track position is always important there, so qualifying well and keeping up with the changing track throughout the weekend will be key. We’ve got NOS Energy Drink on the car, and if we execute all weekend, I think we’ll have a chance to be racing up front when it matters.”   Cody Ware, No. 51 Rick Ware Racing ChevroletLast year’s Iowa Corn 350 was your first start of any kind at Iowa Speedway. How helpful is it to go back to Iowa with firsthand experience at the track? “I was probably one of the only guys last year that hadn’t competed in a national series race at Iowa before, so to be able to go back with a Cup race under my belt is going to be pretty huge. That will definitely lessen that learning curve this time around. I learned the track is very abrasive. They’ve done some asphalt work, but it’s disconnected as far as where the new patches of pavement are compared to the old, and so that created a lack of forward drive. It definitely was one of the tougher races we had last year. But it was also tangible experience, too. We didn’t have that before.”   Michael McDowell, No. 71 Spire Motorsports ChevroletWhat makes Iowa Speedway so challenging?“Iowa is great. The last few years have put on some fun shows. I’ve raced there a bunch in O’Reilly and ARCA. Even in years when I wasn’t running full-time in O’Reilly, I’d still do the standalone races for some of the bigger organizations or whoever had an open seat.It was honestly my best track from a results standpoint, but going back there with the Cup car was so different. The track had aged in some areas, then there were new asphalts and patches. It was a very different racetrack.The heat, surface, roughness, changes and grip differences from patch to patch or from old asphalt and newer asphalt. There’s so much going on in one lap there. It’s really hard to describe. Iowa is very tricky; it’s like a puzzle piece that you’re putting together, where you catch that grip strip and how you come off it, but I am looking forward to getting there and trying to get it right.”   Carson Hocevar, No. 77 Spire Motorsports ChevroletWhat makes Iowa a difficult track to race?“It is difficult to race because everyone is fighting for two lanes and you’re all on top of each other. It is really bumpy getting into Turn 1. When you are three or four wide on a restart, if you bottom out over those bumps it is very unpredictable. The lane also moves around a little with the patch, so you are constantly racing the bumps and surface changes. It is a really challenging track, but super fun to race at.”   Connor Zilisch, No. 88 Trackhouse Racing ChevroletHow did you spend your weekend off?“I went fishing down in Florida and got a little bit more sun than I was anticipating. It was a good time to get away from things for a few days, but it did feel weird not being at the racetrack this past weekend. I definitely think that it’s good to get away from things for a little bit. It certainly helps to reset your mind.” What’s the blueprint to have a good day there at Iowa Speedway?“I won the ARCA race there the first time I went and then last year, in the O’Reilly Series race, I led the entire first stage. I think I had a loose wheel and had to go to the back and came back to finish fourth. I feel like Iowa has always treated me pretty well. It’s certainly a unique racetrack with it being partially paved. There are really only three usable lanes and by three, I mean three car widths. It’s not very wide, but it is racy inside of those three car widths. The banking fall off at Iowa is certainly different and you get some loose moments off Turn 4. Coming off of the new pavement and switching to the old pavement you feel that as the driver and you’ll get some tire spin off of the new pavement. I’m excited to see what it’s like in a Cup car going there for the first time this weekend.”   Shane van Gisbergen, No. 97 Trackhouse Racing ChevroletWhat can you take away from your recent result at North Wilkesboro and how can you apply this weekend at Iowa Speedway?“Just confidence. North Wilkesboro was a race that the metric helped us, but it also shows that if we can start up front, we can stay there. That really puts the focus on qualifying, I need to be better, and we need to make our cars better. It’s just awesome to race at the front and keep ourselves there. It shows that everyone is executing and when it all comes together, we can do it.” You are 57 points ahead of the Chase cutline. How much pride do you take in that, knowing the strides you took to get to this point?“It’s pretty awesome. To be honest, I was stoked after making those leaps above the cutline. It’s been great to get a lot of points on these ovals. As a team we aren’t exactly where we want to be. We want to make the most of the bad days and try and score as many points as possible. On our bad days we still have to be 15th to 20th and that’s not a good day for points you know. Sometimes you have to suck those days up and accept it, even though you want to be better. There are four races to go and our focus at the moment is points every week.”

Chevrolet NASCAR Cup Series Statistics Manufacturer Championships:Total (1949-2025): 44First title for Chevrolet: 1958Highest number of consecutive titles: 13 (2003-15)Most recent: 2025 Years Won: 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1995, 1996, 1998, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 Driver Championships:Total (1949-2025): 34First Chevrolet champion: Buck Baker (1957)Highest number of consecutive titles: 7 (2005-11) Most recent: Kyle Larson (2025)Driver and Manufacturer Championship Sweeps: 29 Years Won: 1957, 1960, 1961, 1973, 1976, 1977, 1979, 1980, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2001, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2020, 2021, 2025 Event Victories:Record for total race wins in single season: 26 (2007)                2026 STATISTICS:                                                                                                    Wins: 6Poles: 5Laps Led: 1,635Top-Fives: 38Top-10s: 74Stage Wins: 16 CHEVROLET IN NASCAR CUMULATIVE STATISTICS:Total Chevrolet race wins: 887 (1949 to date)Poles won to date: 771Laps led to date: 258,369Top-fives to date: 4,474Top-10s to date: 9,225                                                                                                          Total NASCAR Cup Wins by Corporation, 1949 to Date:                    General Motors: 1,221           Chevrolet: 887           Pontiac: 154           Oldsmobile: 115           Buick: 65            Ford: 851                                                                                          Ford: 751           Mercury: 96           Lincoln: 4            Fiat Chrysler Automobiles: 467           Dodge: 217           Plymouth: 191           Chrysler: 59            Toyota: 216

TEAM CHEVY ADVANCEIowa SpeedwayAugust 8-9, 2026

MEDIA RESOURCES: Photo Gallery | Race AdvancesChevrolet Newsroom

The end of the 2026 regular season is on the horizon, and for the NASCAR Cup and O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, that journey continues this weekend with a trip to the heart of the “Hawkeye State” to take on Iowa Speedway – a track where Chevrolet reigns as the defending winner in NASCAR’s premier series. Saturday’s Hy-Vee Perks 250 will mark the penultimate race of the O’Reilly Series regular season schedule, with six Team Chevy drivers heading into the weekend with a solidified spot in the title hunt. The Cup Series will round out the weekend on Sunday with the Iowa Corn 350 Powered by Ethanol – the first of three-straight short-track events en route to the regular season finale.

BYRON’S HAWKEYE STATE HISTORY Recharged from the off weekend, combined with a visit to one of his statistically strongest tracks, look for William Byron and the No. 24 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet team to be a threat come Sunday’s 350-lap race. While the sport’s history at Iowa Speedway is short, Byron’s resume is unmatched – highlighted by a feat that sees him as one of just two drivers in history that has a win in all three NASCAR national touring series at the track. In the Cup Series, the North Carolina native hasn’t finished outside the top-two, including his win in last season’s event, to earn a series-best average finish of 1.5. In its companion series, it took just one start for Byron to break into victory lane – earning his one O’Reilly Series win with JR Motorsports in 2017 and one Craftsman Truck Series win with Kyle Busch Motorsports in 2016.

HOCEVAR’S CAREER SEASON CONTINUESCarson Hocevar’s third full-time NASCAR Cup Series campaign has been nothing short of impressive, and he only built upon that in the “Racing Capital of the World”. For the fourth time this season, the Michigan native was the Bowtie brigade’s top finisher when he led the manufacturer with a top-10 result in the Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The finish, along with a bank of the second-highest points of the day, propelled Hocevar up two positions to make his first appearance in the top-five of the standings. Hocevar has been a steady fixture above the Chase cutline throughout the season, a large part due to consistency that has seen the young Team Chevy driver earn a season average finish of 14.01 – a feat nearly nine positions improved compared to the record book he had at this point of the season in 2025.

THE SITE OF STENHOUSE’S FIRSTIowa Speedway is the site that made Ricky Stenhouse Jr. a first-time winner in the NASCAR national ranks. Rewinding to 2011 and his sophomore season in the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, Stenhouse Jr. made his first trip to victory lane at Iowa, going on to reel off three-straight at the track (2011 sweep; May 2012) – a record streak in the division that still stands today. Returning to the track 12 years later for the Cup Series’ inaugural event, the Mississippi native quickly found his footing around the 7/8-mile oval to earn a top-five finish.

MAYER ON THE BRINK OF A RECORD STREAKEntering the penultimate race of the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series regular season with a 29-point advantage over the cutline, there’s no better track than Iowa Speedway for Sam Mayer and the No. 41 Haas Factory Team to further build onto that cushion. Since the series return to the track in 2024, Mayer has earned back-to-back trips to victory lane. A win in Saturday’s race would tie the series’ record streak at the track, which is currently held by fellow Team Chevy driver Ricky Stenhouse Jr. Mayer’s two career Iowa starts nearly mirror each other, with the pair of wins accompanied by fifth-place qualifying efforts and top-four finishes in each stage.

KVAPIL ROCKETS UP THE RANKSCarson Kvapil conquered the historic Indianapolis Motor Speedway oval to earn his first career win in the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Part Series. With a 69-point day, the best of the race by 20 points over veteran driver Justin Allgaier, Kvapil made the biggest move up the standings to a career-best rank of second heading into the Iowa race weekend. With a campaign that has seen the driver compete with three different team and crew chief pairings, his early berth into the Chase is even more impressive.

Another Record on the Horizon for JR Motorsports: A storybook season continues for JR Motorsports with Kvapil’s Indianapolis victory marking the organization’s 14th trip to victory lane this season – boosting its winning percentage to 63.6 percent on the season. Kvapil, the sixth different driver to earn a win under the JRM banner this season, also led the organization to one-two-three-four finish – making them the first organization in series’ history to sweep the top-four finishing positions of a race. The organization sits at now 79 consecutive races with at least one finish in the top-10 – tying the record previously set by RFK Racing.

BOWTIE BULLETS:·        Chevrolet will serve as the official pace vehicle for the Iowa Speedway race weekend with the Corvette Stingray pacing the NASCAR Cup and O’Reilly Auto Parts Series in their respective events.  ·        Victories by active Chevrolet drivers in the NASCAR national ranks at Iowa Speedway: NASCAR Cup SeriesWilliam Byron – one win (Aug. 2025) NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts SeriesRicky Stenhouse Jr. – three wins (2011 sweep; May 2012) Sam Mayer – two wins (Aug. 2025; June 2024) Justin Allgaier – one win (June 2018)William Byron – one win (June 2017) NASCAR Craftsman Truck SeriesWilliam Byron – one win (June 2016)Austin Dillon – one win (July 2010)  ·        With Grant Enfinger’s win at Lime Rock Park, Chevrolet sits just two wins away from its milestone 300th all-time NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series win.  ·        With seven-straight victories to start the 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series season, Chevrolet set the record for the longest season-opening streak by a single manufacturer in the division’s history.  ·        In 165 points-paying races in the NASCAR Cup Series Next Gen era, Chevrolet leads all manufacturers with 73 victories – a winning percentage of 44.2%.  ·        Chevrolet is coming off its 29th all-time sweep of the NASCAR Cup Series championship titles – capturing its 34th driver championship and 44th, and fifth consecutive, manufacturer championship in 2025.  ·        With its 44 NASCAR Cup Series manufacturer championships, 34 NASCAR Cup Series driver championships, and 887 all-time NASCAR Cup Series wins, Chevrolet continues to hold the title as the winningest brand in NASCAR Cup Series history.    FOR THE FANS:Fans can visit the Team Chevy Racing Display in the Fan Midway at Iowa Speedway, which features a variety of vehicles including: Silverado 2500 LTZ, Tahoe High Country, Silverado 1500 LTZ, Equinox EV RS, Traverse RS, Corvette Z06, Blazer EV SS, Colorado ZR2, NASCAR Cup Series Camaro ZL1 show car. Chevrolet Display Hours of Operation:Friday, August 7: 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Saturday, August 8: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Sunday, August 9: 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.  Team Chevy Driver Appearances at the Display:Saturday, August 8: Ricky Stenhouse Jr.: 11:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Michael McDowell: 11:15 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Justin Allgaier & Carson Kvapil: 12:45 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Sammy Smith & Rajah Caruth: 1:30 p.m. – 1:45 p.m. Sunday, August 9: Austin Dillon: 10:35 a.m. – 10:50 a.m. Kyle Larson: 10:50 a.m. – 11:05 a.m. Ross Chastain & Shane van Gisbergen: 11:20 a.m. – 11:35 a.m. Daniel Suarez: 11:35 a.m. – 11:50 a.m.  William Byron: 12:00 p.m. – 12:15 p.m.

TUNE-IN:NASCAR Cup SeriesIowa Corn 350 Powered by EthanolSunday, Aug. 9, at 3:30 p.m. ETUSA Network, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90  NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series Hy-Vee Perks 250Saturday, Aug. 8, at 5 p.m. ETCW, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR Radio Channel 90

QUOTABLE QUOTES:Ross Chastain, No. 1 Trackhouse Racing ChevroletThere’s a little different look to your Busch Light car this weekend?“Being an eighth generation watermelon farmer, agriculture and farming are really important to me. It’s awesome to be able to drive Busch Light’s ‘For the Farmers’ paint scheme this weekend at Iowa. There’s no better place to do it since Iowa since is farm country. When you drive up to the speedway, it’s surrounded by green fields. Farmers and farming are very important for providing food for our population and there’s no Busch Light without ingredients grown by farmers.” You had a weekend off. Are you excited to get back to the track?“I’m excited for the 50 minute practice this weekend at Iowa. I support having one longer practice session and I’m happy NASCAR has made some adjustments to move in that direction. I hope our Busch Light ‘For the Farmers’ Chevy is good to start with in practice and all we have to do is make a few minor adjustments. I love racing at Iowa Speedway. The surface is weathered and rough which makes it challenging to drive and you really have to hit your marks perfectly.”   Austin Dillon, No. 3 Richard Childress Racing ChevroletWhat makes Iowa Speedway stand out? “Iowa is a short track, it’s got a lot of character, hard winters, hot summers. It’s fun to go there. We’ll try to work on the balance of the No. 3 Get Bioethanol Chevrolet to make sure we can get through the bumps and be sure to take care of our tires. I think this race is going to be one of the best ones because of how aged the track is.”   Daniel Suarez, No. 7 Spire Motorsports ChevroletWhat does Iowa mean to you and what will it take to be successful this weekend?“Iowa Speedway is a special place for me because I have a lot of history there. From my K&N days to my time in the O’Reilly Series, it’s a track where I learned a lot and built a lot of confidence. Coming back now with Spire Motorsports, the goal is to take everything I’ve learned over the years and use that experience to help our team keep improving. Iowa is the kind of place where myself, my crew, and the setup all have to work together, and that’s what makes it such a challenge and such a fun track to race.”   Ty Dillon, No. 10 Kaulig Racing ChevroletWhy have you enjoyed success at Iowa Speedway?“Iowa Speedway is one of those places where, when I show up, I feel really comfortable with the track. It’s a place where I’ve logged a lot of laps over the course of my career, and I’ve always enjoyed going there. Iowa is a short track, but it feels like a mile-and-a-half in some ways because of the speeds you can carry.” What do you expect this weekend?“The end of the race gets quite wild and there’s a lot of crashes. I think that’s one thing that gives me confidence every time there is that I know when it gets chaotic, I feel comfortable. Give me less practice, give me less qualifying and give us some crazy. When there is chaos, I feel calm in the chaos. This is one of those tracks that seems to induce some of that at the end of restarts.”   AJ Allmendinger, No. 16 Kaulig Racing Chevrolet How was your off weekend and what is your impression of Iowa?“It was nice to have a rare off weekend to reset, spend time with family, and play a lot of golf. Iowa Speedway is a unique and fun racetrack with some really bumpy sections. There aren’t many tracks like it, and I think that’s what makes it enjoyable. We weren’t as good as we hoped to be in our first year there, but last year we were much closer and had decent speed. Hopefully, we can build on our short-track program, put together a strong run, and come away with a solid result.” What is an important lesson you are carrying with you into Iowa?“For me, I’m always going to race hard, but if you push too much, that’s when mistakes happen. The goal is to not make mistakes and put ourselves in a good position at the end of the race so we have a chance for a strong finish. I think we can do that at Iowa.” Austin Hill, No. 33 Richard Childress Racing ChevroletWhat is your mindset heading into Iowa Speedway?“Iowa should be a good challenge for our Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen team. I’ve watched past races and spent time in the simulator to prep for this weekend. Austin (Dillon) and the No. 3 team were solid there last year and left with a top-10 finish, so we are going to use their notes to put us close at the start of practice. Getting a full 50-minute practice session now should be good for our team, because it allows myself to have more laps to learn the track in the Cup car and also allows Andy (Street, crew chief) and the guys to make a few more adjustments. If we execute throughout the weekend, I think we can have a good finish.”   Ricky Stenhouse Jr., No. 47 Hyak Motorsports Chevrolet“We’re ready to get back to racing after the off week. It was nice to have a little time to reset, but everyone at Hyak Motorsports is excited to get back to the track. Iowa is a fun place to race because it’s fast, technical, and the racing gets pretty intense. Track position is always important there, so qualifying well and keeping up with the changing track throughout the weekend will be key. We’ve got NOS Energy Drink on the car, and if we execute all weekend, I think we’ll have a chance to be racing up front when it matters.”   Cody Ware, No. 51 Rick Ware Racing ChevroletLast year’s Iowa Corn 350 was your first start of any kind at Iowa Speedway. How helpful is it to go back to Iowa with firsthand experience at the track? “I was probably one of the only guys last year that hadn’t competed in a national series race at Iowa before, so to be able to go back with a Cup race under my belt is going to be pretty huge. That will definitely lessen that learning curve this time around. I learned the track is very abrasive. They’ve done some asphalt work, but it’s disconnected as far as where the new patches of pavement are compared to the old, and so that created a lack of forward drive. It definitely was one of the tougher races we had last year. But it was also tangible experience, too. We didn’t have that before.”   Michael McDowell, No. 71 Spire Motorsports ChevroletWhat makes Iowa Speedway so challenging?“Iowa is great. The last few years have put on some fun shows. I’ve raced there a bunch in O’Reilly and ARCA. Even in years when I wasn’t running full-time in O’Reilly, I’d still do the standalone races for some of the bigger organizations or whoever had an open seat.It was honestly my best track from a results standpoint, but going back there with the Cup car was so different. The track had aged in some areas, then there were new asphalts and patches. It was a very different racetrack.The heat, surface, roughness, changes and grip differences from patch to patch or from old asphalt and newer asphalt. There’s so much going on in one lap there. It’s really hard to describe. Iowa is very tricky; it’s like a puzzle piece that you’re putting together, where you catch that grip strip and how you come off it, but I am looking forward to getting there and trying to get it right.”   Carson Hocevar, No. 77 Spire Motorsports ChevroletWhat makes Iowa a difficult track to race?“It is difficult to race because everyone is fighting for two lanes and you’re all on top of each other. It is really bumpy getting into Turn 1. When you are three or four wide on a restart, if you bottom out over those bumps it is very unpredictable. The lane also moves around a little with the patch, so you are constantly racing the bumps and surface changes. It is a really challenging track, but super fun to race at.”   Connor Zilisch, No. 88 Trackhouse Racing ChevroletHow did you spend your weekend off?“I went fishing down in Florida and got a little bit more sun than I was anticipating. It was a good time to get away from things for a few days, but it did feel weird not being at the racetrack this past weekend. I definitely think that it’s good to get away from things for a little bit. It certainly helps to reset your mind.” What’s the blueprint to have a good day there at Iowa Speedway?“I won the ARCA race there the first time I went and then last year, in the O’Reilly Series race, I led the entire first stage. I think I had a loose wheel and had to go to the back and came back to finish fourth. I feel like Iowa has always treated me pretty well. It’s certainly a unique racetrack with it being partially paved. There are really only three usable lanes and by three, I mean three car widths. It’s not very wide, but it is racy inside of those three car widths. The banking fall off at Iowa is certainly different and you get some loose moments off Turn 4. Coming off of the new pavement and switching to the old pavement you feel that as the driver and you’ll get some tire spin off of the new pavement. I’m excited to see what it’s like in a Cup car going there for the first time this weekend.”   Shane van Gisbergen, No. 97 Trackhouse Racing ChevroletWhat can you take away from your recent result at North Wilkesboro and how can you apply this weekend at Iowa Speedway?“Just confidence. North Wilkesboro was a race that the metric helped us, but it also shows that if we can start up front, we can stay there. That really puts the focus on qualifying, I need to be better, and we need to make our cars better. It’s just awesome to race at the front and keep ourselves there. It shows that everyone is executing and when it all comes together, we can do it.” You are 57 points ahead of the Chase cutline. How much pride do you take in that, knowing the strides you took to get to this point?“It’s pretty awesome. To be honest, I was stoked after making those leaps above the cutline. It’s been great to get a lot of points on these ovals. As a team we aren’t exactly where we want to be. We want to make the most of the bad days and try and score as many points as possible. On our bad days we still have to be 15th to 20th and that’s not a good day for points you know. Sometimes you have to suck those days up and accept it, even though you want to be better. There are four races to go and our focus at the moment is points every week.”

Chevrolet NASCAR Cup Series Statistics Manufacturer Championships:Total (1949-2025): 44First title for Chevrolet: 1958Highest number of consecutive titles: 13 (2003-15)Most recent: 2025 Years Won: 1958, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1995, 1996, 1998, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025 Driver Championships:Total (1949-2025): 34First Chevrolet champion: Buck Baker (1957)Highest number of consecutive titles: 7 (2005-11) Most recent: Kyle Larson (2025)Driver and Manufacturer Championship Sweeps: 29 Years Won: 1957, 1960, 1961, 1973, 1976, 1977, 1979, 1980, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2001, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2020, 2021, 2025 Event Victories:Record for total race wins in single season: 26 (2007)                2026 STATISTICS:                                                                                                    Wins: 6Poles: 5Laps Led: 1,635Top-Fives: 38Top-10s: 74Stage Wins: 16 CHEVROLET IN NASCAR CUMULATIVE STATISTICS:Total Chevrolet race wins: 887 (1949 to date)Poles won to date: 771Laps led to date: 258,369Top-fives to date: 4,474Top-10s to date: 9,225                                                                                                          Total NASCAR Cup Wins by Corporation, 1949 to Date:                    General Motors: 1,221           Chevrolet: 887           Pontiac: 154           Oldsmobile: 115           Buick: 65            Ford: 851                                                                                          Ford: 751           Mercury: 96           Lincoln: 4            Fiat Chrysler Automobiles: 467           Dodge: 217           Plymouth: 191           Chrysler: 59            Toyota: 216

CONCORD, NC (August 5, 2026) – You don’t need a master’s degree in dirt Late Model racing to realize that Bobby Pierce has been the top driver in the sport this year.

Domination out of the No. 32 camp has been a common theme of the past four seasons. But as he inches closer to a third World of Outlaws Late Model Series presented by DIRTVision championship, Pierce’s 2026 campaign has created some statistics that not only exceed everyone else in the pit area, but also some of his own benchmarks from years past.

Here’s a look at the numbers behind Pierce’s 2026 season:

18 – Pierce’s World of Outlaws win total in 2026. Not only has he already blown past his personal record of 14 wins in 2023, but he’s part of a tie for the single-season win record alongside Josh Richards (2016) and Brandon Sheppard (2017, 2019). With 14 races left on this season’s schedule, Pierce has a chance to smash the existing record if he keeps up his winning ways through the fall.

60 – the World of Outlaws win total Pierce is up to in his career. He’s the fourth driver in Series history to reach that mark after Sheppard, Richards, and Darrell Lanigan.

248 – the number of Feature starts Pierce needed to reach 60 wins. Out of the three drivers ahead of him on the all-time wins list, only Sheppard got there faster, winning his 60th World of Outlaws race in his 198th start at Lernerville Speedway in 2020.

6 – consecutive wins Pierce strung together in June. That tied the all-time Series record, a title Pierce shares with Lanigan (2012) and himself (2024).

45 – Pierce’s win percentage in World of Outlaws competition in 2026. That’s a major improvement over his career best of 36% in 2023, and it’s nearly on pace with the modern Series record of 46%, which was achieved in 2014 when Lanigan won 17 of the 37 races contested that season.

3.38 – Pierce’s average finish so far in 2026. It would be the best of his World of Outlaws career if he can maintain it through the end of the season, as well as the fourth-best average finish in the modern era of the Series behind Lanigan’s 2.70 in 2014, Sheppard’s 2.93 in 2019 and Sheppard’s 3.30 in 2017.

194 – cars Pierce has passed in Features this season. His win total and average finish are made more impressive by his average starting position of 8.23, the worst of his full-time World of Outlaws career.

8 – times Pierce has gained 10 or more positions in a Feature. For perspective, that’s something Pierce did five times in the first three years of his full-time World of Outlaws career combined. His deepest run of the season came at Volusia Speedway Park when he gained 18 spots driving from 21st to third in the Friday portion of Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals.

38 – the number of consecutive top 10s Pierce started the year with, demolishing his personal best of 18 in a row last year. The streak finally came to an end last Thursday at Cedar Lake Speedway when Pierce finished 12th on the first night of the USA Nationals.

552 – laps led in Feature competition. Pierce’s 33 laps out front on Saturday night at Cedar Lake Speedway brought him within one lap of his career-high of 553 in 2023. That means the No. 32 has been out front for 29% of the 1,902 laps turned this season.

18 – how many different tracks Pierce has won at this season. If he goes the rest of the season without winning somewhere more than once, it would be the first time he’s done so since joining the World of Outlaws full-time in 2023. Out of all the places Pierce has been victorious so far this season, 10 have been first-time additions to his Series wins list, while two came in his first visit to the track (Hendry County Motorsports Park and Georgetown Speedway).

3 – Pierce’s crown jewel total so far in 2026, having topped the Show-Me 100, Dirt Late Model Dream and the USA Nationals. He still has work to do to match his personal best of six in 2024, when he won the Prairie Dirt Classic, USA Nationals, North-South 100, World 100, Late Model Knoxville Nationals and the Dirt Track World Championship in an unstoppable three-month rampage.

24 – races Pierce has won across all of dirt Late Model racing this year. His mark to beat is 38 wins in 2024, and he’s nearly on pace to do that – Pierce’s 24th win of 2024 came in the Prairie Dirt Classic, only a week earlier than it did in 2026.

Pierce’s first opportunity to break the World of Outlaws single-season win record will come at Maquoketa Speedway in the World of Outlaws Hawkeye 100 on Friday and Saturday, Aug. 21-22. Get your tickets in advance by clicking here.

Want to watch the World of Outlaws? Stream every race live on DIRTVision.

BY THE NUMBERS: A Deep Dive Into Pierce’s Historic 2026 Season

CONCORD, NC (August 5, 2026) – You don’t need a master’s degree in dirt Late Model racing to realize that Bobby Pierce has been the top driver in the sport this year.

Domination out of the No. 32 camp has been a common theme of the past four seasons. But as he inches closer to a third World of Outlaws Late Model Series presented by DIRTVision championship, Pierce’s 2026 campaign has created some statistics that not only exceed everyone else in the pit area, but also some of his own benchmarks from years past.

Here’s a look at the numbers behind Pierce’s 2026 season:

18 – Pierce’s World of Outlaws win total in 2026. Not only has he already blown past his personal record of 14 wins in 2023, but he’s part of a tie for the single-season win record alongside Josh Richards (2016) and Brandon Sheppard (2017, 2019). With 14 races left on this season’s schedule, Pierce has a chance to smash the existing record if he keeps up his winning ways through the fall.

60 – the World of Outlaws win total Pierce is up to in his career. He’s the fourth driver in Series history to reach that mark after Sheppard, Richards, and Darrell Lanigan.

248 – the number of Feature starts Pierce needed to reach 60 wins. Out of the three drivers ahead of him on the all-time wins list, only Sheppard got there faster, winning his 60th World of Outlaws race in his 198th start at Lernerville Speedway in 2020.

6 – consecutive wins Pierce strung together in June. That tied the all-time Series record, a title Pierce shares with Lanigan (2012) and himself (2024).

45 – Pierce’s win percentage in World of Outlaws competition in 2026. That’s a major improvement over his career best of 36% in 2023, and it’s nearly on pace with the modern Series record of 46%, which was achieved in 2014 when Lanigan won 17 of the 37 races contested that season.

3.38 – Pierce’s average finish so far in 2026. It would be the best of his World of Outlaws career if he can maintain it through the end of the season, as well as the fourth-best average finish in the modern era of the Series behind Lanigan’s 2.70 in 2014, Sheppard’s 2.93 in 2019 and Sheppard’s 3.30 in 2017.

194 – cars Pierce has passed in Features this season. His win total and average finish are made more impressive by his average starting position of 8.23, the worst of his full-time World of Outlaws career.

8 – times Pierce has gained 10 or more positions in a Feature. For perspective, that’s something Pierce did five times in the first three years of his full-time World of Outlaws career combined. His deepest run of the season came at Volusia Speedway Park when he gained 18 spots driving from 21st to third in the Friday portion of Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals.

38 – the number of consecutive top 10s Pierce started the year with, demolishing his personal best of 18 in a row last year. The streak finally came to an end last Thursday at Cedar Lake Speedway when Pierce finished 12th on the first night of the USA Nationals.

552 – laps led in Feature competition. Pierce’s 33 laps out front on Saturday night at Cedar Lake Speedway brought him within one lap of his career-high of 553 in 2023. That means the No. 32 has been out front for 29% of the 1,902 laps turned this season.

18 – how many different tracks Pierce has won at this season. If he goes the rest of the season without winning somewhere more than once, it would be the first time he’s done so since joining the World of Outlaws full-time in 2023. Out of all the places Pierce has been victorious so far this season, 10 have been first-time additions to his Series wins list, while two came in his first visit to the track (Hendry County Motorsports Park and Georgetown Speedway).

3 – Pierce’s crown jewel total so far in 2026, having topped the Show-Me 100, Dirt Late Model Dream and the USA Nationals. He still has work to do to match his personal best of six in 2024, when he won the Prairie Dirt Classic, USA Nationals, North-South 100, World 100, Late Model Knoxville Nationals and the Dirt Track World Championship in an unstoppable three-month rampage.

24 – races Pierce has won across all of dirt Late Model racing this year. His mark to beat is 38 wins in 2024, and he’s nearly on pace to do that – Pierce’s 24th win of 2024 came in the Prairie Dirt Classic, only a week earlier than it did in 2026.

Pierce’s first opportunity to break the World of Outlaws single-season win record will come at Maquoketa Speedway in the World of Outlaws Hawkeye 100 on Friday and Saturday, Aug. 21-22. Get your tickets in advance by clicking here.

Want to watch the World of Outlaws? Stream every race live on DIRTVision.

ARTICLE: https://worldofoutlaws.com/latemodels/by-the-numbers-a-deep-dive-into-pierces-historic-2026-season/

Chase Saathoff (No. 88) leading Aidan RoosEvans (No. 26) and Tom Drane (No. 59) during the 2025 Jackpine Gypsies Super TT. [Photo: Scott Hunter for AMA Pro Racing]Download high-resolution photo from AMA Pro’s Digital Asset Management system

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (August 5, 2026) – Reigning champion Tom Drane (No. 1 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) arrives at the 86th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally with yet another record in his sights as the KICKER AFT Singles competitors prepare for the Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Super TT, Round 12 of the 2026 Progressive American Flat Track season, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, on Saturday, August 8.  Drane Storm Estenson Racing Yamaha ace Drane has proven a nigh-unstoppable force as of late, racking up five consecutive victories. That run of success has vaulted him into some truly rarified air as the Australian continues to make his case for consideration as the greatest rider in KICKER AFT Singles history.  The numbers are increasingly on his side. Drane now boasts the most career wins and the most consecutive podiums, among many other achievements of significance. Now he enters Saturday’s race at the Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club in Sturgis, South Dakota, needing just one more victory to claim a share of the longest win streak in class history.  Despite all that, he might not even be the pre-race favorite this week.  Drane has won a lot of races at a lot of different venues. Not only does he have more overall victories than anyone else, he has the most Mile wins, the second most Short Track wins, and the third most Half-Mile wins.  However, of those 26 wins just one has come at a TT. Granted, it came at the series’ most recent, the 2025 Peoria TT, a triumph that made him just the sixth to ever complete the KICKER AFT Singles Grand Slam.  Despite having enjoyed just a single TT win, Drane’s background as a standout roadracer certainly has the makeup to excel at TTs, and he has regularly demonstrated the pace to do so.  While it’s fair to point out that the relative infrequency of the discipline on the calendar has presented him with a limited number of opportunities to change the narrative, it also makes for a refreshing change of pace to be able to position Drane as the underdog following a lengthy reign as the resident overdog.  The Rider to Chase The rider arguably most in need of a huge week in Sturgis also happens to be the one who just so happened to enjoy a huge week in Sturgis one year ago.  Long-time Drane foil Chase Saathoff (No. 88 1st Impressions Race Team Husqvarna FC450) powered to victory in last year’s Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Super TT to round out a spectacular 1-2-1 week.  Despite having racked up eight podiums en route to a clear second-place ranking this season, Saathoff is still seeking his first victory of ‘26.  With more than a full race’s padding on third-ranked Kage Tadman (No. 28 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), Saathoff is primed to let it hang out at a track he’s previously conquered with hopes of finally bringing Drane’s win streak to an end.  Vindicated Last year’s Super TT was also a monumental one for Bradon Pfanders (No. 83 Memphis Shades/Corbin Seats Yamaha YZ450F) – albeit more in hindsight than in action.  Pfanders was credited with third, marking his first career Progressive AFT podium. However, it didn’t involve a trip to the podium, as he crossed the line in fourth and was only elevated to the position after Aidan RoosEvans was DQ’d from second.  While likely not how he envisioned his first podium, Pfanders more than made up for it when he took his maiden KICKER AFT Singles victory at the DAYTONA double season opener earlier this year.  He’s also well set up to stand upon the box in Sturgis this year, having rediscovered his form following a mid-season dip. The OTB Racing pilot has reeled in consecutive finishes of fifth, fifth, and sixth and appears ready to capitalize at a track he’s done well at in the past.  Bounce Back Candidate While Pfanders has gotten his season back on the track, preseason title hopeful Trevor Brunner (No. 21 KMA Racing/March Equipment Yamaha YZ450F) is looking for a turnaround of his own.  Brunner – among the most decorated riders the class has ever known – came out swinging in ‘26, claiming four podiums over the season’s first five races, including a victory at the Senoia ST.  However, he’s now mired in an uncharacteristic slump that’s seen him finish eighth or lower six races running. Brunner is obviously capable of much more, and perhaps the Super TT is exactly what he needs to re-unlock his potential.   He’s tied with Saathoff for most TT wins among active riders (two). One more would vault him into a tie for third all-time while giving him a much-needed boost in confidence.  Puncher’s Chance While Drane has made it unlikely-bordering-on-impossible as of late, the KICKER AFT Singles class is still capable of springing a surprise winner at times.  Tadman did it twice in 2025, and, as noted above, Pfanders pulled off an upset of his own earlier this year. A win by Tarren Santero (No. 75 Roof Systems/Texas Utility Studies/Vinson Construction Honda CRF450R) might not even register as a surprise, considering how close he’s come on multiple occasions before.  Jared Lowe (No. 63 Big R Racing/Vinson Construction Honda CRF450R) was strong here a year ago, while Walker Porter (No. 10 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R) has made himself a regular up near the front at times this season.  We haven’t yet gotten a chance to see how rookies like Jack Brucks (No. 113 1st Impressions Race Team Husqvarna FC450) and Jett Katarzy (No. 117 1st Impressions Race Team Husqvarna FC450) will fare at a Super TT, but we can trust that long-time Supermoto ace Bronson Pearce (No. 132 A1R Racing/FRA Trust Yamaha YZ450F) will be at the top of his game.  Party Like You’re at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is regarded the world over as one of the planet’s ultimate party destinations, and the revelry will be overflowing at the track and throughout the town. NASCAR legend Mike Skinner will serve as Grand Marshal to help cement the event’s elevated status.   And along with the world-class race action, the Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club will host the V-Twin Visionary Ride-In Bike Show, a Strider race for kids, big-screen viewing, an abundance of food and beverage options, and more.  Act Fast to Secure Your Seat A limited number of General Admission tickets for the Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Super TT and the Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Short Track are available for just $25 each round. General Admission Grandstand tickets are only $53 per round (kids 12 and under free with a paid adult ticket) with Reserved Grandstand tickets available for $64 (all ages). Students can purchase a GA Grandstand ticket for just $20 at the gate the day of the event with a valid ID.  The Harley-Davidson VIP Experience ($135, all ages), delivers H.O.G. members an unforgettable evening that includes exclusive H-D seating, a rider meet-and-greet, an infield tour complete with podium photos, and Harley swag.  Finally, an exclusive offering – limited to just 30 guests – is access to the AFT Hospitality Tent, which provides prime sightlines along with food and drinks all day for $125 (all ages).  And if you act fast, you can save $5 off the gate price and be one of the first 500 who’ll snag a free seat cushion. Visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/2026-jackpine-gypsies-super-tt-191302 to reserve your seats for the Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Super TT.  And visit  https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/2026-jackpine-gypsies-short-track-194954 to reserve your seats for the Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Short Track.  Both days will see the gates open for fans at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT with Opening Ceremonies scheduled to begin at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

Drane, Saathoff on Collision Course in Super TT Rematch

Chase Saathoff (No. 88) leading Aidan RoosEvans (No. 26) and Tom Drane (No. 59) during the 2025 Jackpine Gypsies Super TT. [Photo: Scott Hunter for AMA Pro Racing]Download high-resolution photo from AMA Pro’s Digital Asset Management system

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (August 5, 2026) – Reigning champion Tom Drane (No. 1 Estenson Racing Yamaha YZ450F) arrives at the 86th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally with yet another record in his sights as the KICKER AFT Singles competitors prepare for the Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Super TT, Round 12 of the 2026 Progressive American Flat Track season, sanctioned by AMA Pro Racing, on Saturday, August 8.  Drane Storm Estenson Racing Yamaha ace Drane has proven a nigh-unstoppable force as of late, racking up five consecutive victories. That run of success has vaulted him into some truly rarified air as the Australian continues to make his case for consideration as the greatest rider in KICKER AFT Singles history.  The numbers are increasingly on his side. Drane now boasts the most career wins and the most consecutive podiums, among many other achievements of significance. Now he enters Saturday’s race at the Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club in Sturgis, South Dakota, needing just one more victory to claim a share of the longest win streak in class history.  Despite all that, he might not even be the pre-race favorite this week.  Drane has won a lot of races at a lot of different venues. Not only does he have more overall victories than anyone else, he has the most Mile wins, the second most Short Track wins, and the third most Half-Mile wins.  However, of those 26 wins just one has come at a TT. Granted, it came at the series’ most recent, the 2025 Peoria TT, a triumph that made him just the sixth to ever complete the KICKER AFT Singles Grand Slam.  Despite having enjoyed just a single TT win, Drane’s background as a standout roadracer certainly has the makeup to excel at TTs, and he has regularly demonstrated the pace to do so.  While it’s fair to point out that the relative infrequency of the discipline on the calendar has presented him with a limited number of opportunities to change the narrative, it also makes for a refreshing change of pace to be able to position Drane as the underdog following a lengthy reign as the resident overdog.  The Rider to Chase The rider arguably most in need of a huge week in Sturgis also happens to be the one who just so happened to enjoy a huge week in Sturgis one year ago.  Long-time Drane foil Chase Saathoff (No. 88 1st Impressions Race Team Husqvarna FC450) powered to victory in last year’s Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Super TT to round out a spectacular 1-2-1 week.  Despite having racked up eight podiums en route to a clear second-place ranking this season, Saathoff is still seeking his first victory of ‘26.  With more than a full race’s padding on third-ranked Kage Tadman (No. 28 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R), Saathoff is primed to let it hang out at a track he’s previously conquered with hopes of finally bringing Drane’s win streak to an end.  Vindicated Last year’s Super TT was also a monumental one for Bradon Pfanders (No. 83 Memphis Shades/Corbin Seats Yamaha YZ450F) – albeit more in hindsight than in action.  Pfanders was credited with third, marking his first career Progressive AFT podium. However, it didn’t involve a trip to the podium, as he crossed the line in fourth and was only elevated to the position after Aidan RoosEvans was DQ’d from second.  While likely not how he envisioned his first podium, Pfanders more than made up for it when he took his maiden KICKER AFT Singles victory at the DAYTONA double season opener earlier this year.  He’s also well set up to stand upon the box in Sturgis this year, having rediscovered his form following a mid-season dip. The OTB Racing pilot has reeled in consecutive finishes of fifth, fifth, and sixth and appears ready to capitalize at a track he’s done well at in the past.  Bounce Back Candidate While Pfanders has gotten his season back on the track, preseason title hopeful Trevor Brunner (No. 21 KMA Racing/March Equipment Yamaha YZ450F) is looking for a turnaround of his own.  Brunner – among the most decorated riders the class has ever known – came out swinging in ‘26, claiming four podiums over the season’s first five races, including a victory at the Senoia ST.  However, he’s now mired in an uncharacteristic slump that’s seen him finish eighth or lower six races running. Brunner is obviously capable of much more, and perhaps the Super TT is exactly what he needs to re-unlock his potential.   He’s tied with Saathoff for most TT wins among active riders (two). One more would vault him into a tie for third all-time while giving him a much-needed boost in confidence.  Puncher’s Chance While Drane has made it unlikely-bordering-on-impossible as of late, the KICKER AFT Singles class is still capable of springing a surprise winner at times.  Tadman did it twice in 2025, and, as noted above, Pfanders pulled off an upset of his own earlier this year. A win by Tarren Santero (No. 75 Roof Systems/Texas Utility Studies/Vinson Construction Honda CRF450R) might not even register as a surprise, considering how close he’s come on multiple occasions before.  Jared Lowe (No. 63 Big R Racing/Vinson Construction Honda CRF450R) was strong here a year ago, while Walker Porter (No. 10 American Honda/Mission Foods CRF450R) has made himself a regular up near the front at times this season.  We haven’t yet gotten a chance to see how rookies like Jack Brucks (No. 113 1st Impressions Race Team Husqvarna FC450) and Jett Katarzy (No. 117 1st Impressions Race Team Husqvarna FC450) will fare at a Super TT, but we can trust that long-time Supermoto ace Bronson Pearce (No. 132 A1R Racing/FRA Trust Yamaha YZ450F) will be at the top of his game.  Party Like You’re at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is regarded the world over as one of the planet’s ultimate party destinations, and the revelry will be overflowing at the track and throughout the town. NASCAR legend Mike Skinner will serve as Grand Marshal to help cement the event’s elevated status.   And along with the world-class race action, the Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club will host the V-Twin Visionary Ride-In Bike Show, a Strider race for kids, big-screen viewing, an abundance of food and beverage options, and more.  Act Fast to Secure Your Seat A limited number of General Admission tickets for the Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Super TT and the Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Short Track are available for just $25 each round. General Admission Grandstand tickets are only $53 per round (kids 12 and under free with a paid adult ticket) with Reserved Grandstand tickets available for $64 (all ages). Students can purchase a GA Grandstand ticket for just $20 at the gate the day of the event with a valid ID.  The Harley-Davidson VIP Experience ($135, all ages), delivers H.O.G. members an unforgettable evening that includes exclusive H-D seating, a rider meet-and-greet, an infield tour complete with podium photos, and Harley swag.  Finally, an exclusive offering – limited to just 30 guests – is access to the AFT Hospitality Tent, which provides prime sightlines along with food and drinks all day for $125 (all ages).  And if you act fast, you can save $5 off the gate price and be one of the first 500 who’ll snag a free seat cushion. Visit https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/2026-jackpine-gypsies-super-tt-191302 to reserve your seats for the Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Super TT.  And visit  https://www.tixr.com/groups/americanflattrack/events/2026-jackpine-gypsies-short-track-194954 to reserve your seats for the Caterpillar Jackpine Gypsies Short Track.  Both days will see the gates open for fans at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT with Opening Ceremonies scheduled to begin at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT.

For more information on Progressive American Flat Track, visit https://www.americanflattrack.com

Sheppard Takes Control of Arizona Sport Shirts Crown Jewel Cup Standings

BATAVIA, Ohio (August 5, 2026) – Brandon Sheppard has emerged as the early leader in the 2026 Arizona Sport Shirts Crown Jewel Cup championship following the completion of the Silver Dollar Nationals at Shelby County Speedway. Through the first three Crown Jewel events of the season, consistency has proven to be the key. While several drivers have visited Victory Lane, Sheppard’s three top-five finishes have vaulted the New Berlin, Illinois driver to the top of the standings, giving him a 45-point advantage over Hudson O’Neal entering the next marquee event on the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series presented by FloRacing schedule. O’Neal sits second after recording two top-five finishes through the opening three Crown Jewel events. Devin Moran is third, while Silver Dollar Nationals winner Ricky Thornton Jr. is fourth after earning his first Crown Jewel victory of the season. Brian Shirley rounds out the top five, followed closely by Garrett Alberson, Max Blair, Brandon Overton, rookie Josh Rice, and Carson Ferguson. The Arizona Sport Shirts Crown Jewel Cup rewards full-time Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series competitors for their performances in the Series’ premier events paying $50,000 or more to win. With several of dirt late model racing’s richest events remaining on the 2026 calendar, the championship battle is expected to intensify as teams continue their pursuit of the coveted title and the year-end bonus of $15,000. The next opportunity to earn valuable Crown Jewel Cup points comes on Saturday, August 8, when the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series heads to Florence Speedway for the 44th Annual Sunoco North/South 100, paying $75,000 to the winner. For the latest news, results, and championship standings from the Lucas Oil Late Model Dirt Series presented by FloRacing, please visit LucasDirt.com. 2026 Arizona Sport Shirts Crown Jewel Cup ScheduleMay 16 – Eagle Raceway | Eagle, NE | $50,000 (Canceled)May 23 – Lucas Oil Speedway | Wheatland, MO | $75,000 (Bobby Pierce)June 27 – Lernerville Speedway | Sarver, PA | $50,000 (Devin Moran)July 18 – Shelby County Speedway | Harlan, IA | $53,000 (Ricky Thornton Jr.)August 8 – Florence Speedway | Union, KY | $75,000August 15 – Batesville Motor Speedway | Batesville, AR | $50,000August 29 – Port Royal Speedway | Port Royal, PA | $50,000September 19 – Knoxville Raceway | Knoxville, IA | $75,000September 26 – Brownstown Speedway | Brownstown, IN | $50,000October 3 – Pittsburgh’s Pennsylvania Motor Speedway | Imperial, PA | $50,000October 10 – Eldora Speedway | Rossburg, OH | $50,000October 17 – West Virginia Motor Speedway | Mineral Wells, WV | $100,000 2026 Arizona Sport Shirts Crown Jewel Cup Standings (as of July 18)Pos – Car # – Competitor – Hometown – Points1 – 1 – Brandon Sheppard – New Berlin, IL – 6652 – 71 – Hudson O’Neal – Martinsville, IN – 6203 – 99 – Devin Moran – Dresden, OH – 6054 – 20RT – Ricky Thornton Jr – Chandler, AZ – 5905 – 3s – Brian Shirley – Chatham, IL – 5556 – 58 – Garrett Alberson – Las Cruces, NM – 5507 – 111 – Max Blair – Centerville, PA – 5308 – 76 – Brandon Overton – Evans, GA – 5259 – 11 – Josh Rice – Crittenden, KY – 50010 – 93 – Carson Ferguson – Lincolnton, NC – 500

WHAT TO WATCH FOR: 36th Knoxville Nationals Provides Packed Lineup of Racing, Crown Jewel Honors  KNOXVILLE, IA (August 4, 2026) — The most coveted event on the American Sprint Car Series schedule is here. 

The 36th edition of Xtream powered by Mediacom 360 Knoxville Nationals pres. by Great Southern Bank, takes shape Thursday through Saturday, Aug. 6-8, with more than 100 cars signed up to visit the Iowa 1/2-mile dirt track. 

The three-day event will feature two prelim nights to set the grid, then Saturday’s finale has the best drivers competing for 30 laps around the “Sprint Car Capital of the World” for a $20,000-to-win prize and $1,000-to-start. 

KNOXVILLE INFO 

360 KNOXVILLE NATIONALS TICKETS 

WATCH ON DIRTVISION 

Here’s a look at the top storylines: 

How It Works – Knoxville tests the best in Sprint Cars with a unique format that spreads out through the three nights, awarding points in every session to accumulate a nightly total. 

The field is split between Thursday and Friday for preliminary competition. The Quick Time award winner earns 200 points, with a two-point decrease for each position that follows. The top 50 drivers transfer to Heats while the remainder of the field goes into a non-qualifier race, with the top eight filling the back of the C-Main. 50 points will be awarded to the winner, and a three-point drop-off will follow each spot. 

Each of the Heat races will have a six-car invert, as the winner will score 100 points and a three-point distance for positions will apply. The point totals determine where each driver will roll for the A, B, or C Features. The top four finishers in the C will transfer to the B, with the winner taking 92 points. The B-Main will take the top four to the prelim’s Feature, with the night’s overall winner taking 200 points. 

At the end of Friday’s program, Saturday’s Feature lineups will be set directly by points, with the first tiebreaker being the finishing position in the prelim Feature. The next tiebreaker will be determined by Qualifying time. Saturday’s E, D, and C Features will only take the top two to the next Feature, while the Last Chance Showdown will lock in four drivers for the championship Feature. 

Special First – Kyler Johnson broke through a four-year wait for his first ASCS National Tour victory when he held off the likes of Seth Bergman, Austyn Gossel, and Matt Covington at Viking Speedway. 

Along with being a triumphant moment, the victory was a much-needed boost for Johnson and his team. While they’ve had a fast No. 45X Maxim Chassis, mechanical issues have hindered several of their chances to put together a good run. 

Heading into Knoxville, Johnson is sitting at the highest he’s ever been in ASCS points (fourth), and will be vying for his first Feature start in both prelim nights and the Saturday finale. 

Lemons Into Lemonade – Sam Hafertepe Jr. has faced tough competition throughout the 2026 season as he leads the standings by 23 markers over Matt Covington into the 360 Knoxville Nationals. 

The Sunnyvale, TX driver’s resilience showed at Viking when his car shut down during the Heat Race, but solved the issue in time to roll back on track to finish the eight-lap chase. In the night’s Feature, he hit a tractor tire and spun while attempting to pass Matt Covington for fourth, but came back at the end to pass him for fifth and earn the night’s Hard Charger honors. 

While Hafertepe owns three prelim night victories (2021-22, 2024), he has yet to win the Saturday finale. He’s finished runner-up in the championship Feature twice (2014 and 2022), but he’s looking to make 2026 the year where he stands atop the car for a $20,000 payday. 

Bounty Hunters – A star-studded roster of the best drivers in 410 and 360 Sprint Cars will clash under the lights for three nights, highlighted by former champions, rising threats, and “Hawkeye State” locals searching for their first Nationals victory. 

Of the 114 cars that have pre-registered, 10 are former 360 Nationals champions, including Terry McCarl, Brian Brown, Sammy Swindell, Clint Garner, James McFadden, Kerry Madsen, Gio Scelzi, Aaron Reutzel, Tyler Courtney, and Rico Abreu.  

Four are ASCS champions – Hafertepe, Seth Bergman, Blake Hahn, and Reutzel. 

Ryan Timms and NASCAR champion Kyle Larson are the last two NOS Energy Drink Knoxville Nationals pres. by Casey’s champions and will both be looking for their first 360 Nationals win. 

Several Iowa natives will also be chasing their first 360 Nationals win, including the Martin brothers Chris and Cameron of Ankeny, IA, the McCarl brothers Austin and Carson of Altoona, IA, and Tasker Phillips of Pleasantville, IA. 

There will also be a stacked list of rookies, with 23 first-timers in the event. Among the rookies are ASCS Rookie of the Year contender Cole Schroeder, Whit Gastineau, Malvern Bank ASCS Midwest Region points leader Jack Thomas, and 2025 ASCS Rookie of the Year Garrett Benson. 

THIS WEEKEND AT A GLANCE

WHEN AND WHERE 

Thursday-Saturday, Aug. 6-8, at Knoxville Raceway in Knoxville, IA 

AROUND THE CORNER 

Saturday, Aug. 22, at Riverside International Speedway in West Memphis, AR 

CURRENT TOP-10 STANDINGS 

1. Sam Hafertepe Jr. (1970pts)
2. Matt Covington (-23)
3. Seth Bergman (-57)
4. Kyler Johnson (-241)
5. Ryder LaPlante (-390)
6. Whit Gastineau (-399)
7. Austyn Gossel (-414)
8. Brogan Carder (-438)
9. Terry Easum (-464)
10. Cole Schroeder (-465)

FEATURE WINNERS (10 Drivers) 

3 wins – Sam Hafertepe Jr., Seth Bergman 

2 wins – Justin Peck, Tyler Courtney, Matt Covington 

1 win – Kyler Johnson, Blake Hahn, Chris Martin, Brady Bacon, Levi Hillier 

FEATURE LAPS LED (17 Drivers) 

63 laps – Sam Hafertepe Jr. 

52 laps – Justin Peck 

48 laps – Seth Bergman 

33 laps – Matt Covington 

31 laps – Kyler Johnson 

30 laps – Levi Hillier, Blake Hahn 

24 laps – Austyn Gossel 

22 laps – Chris Martin 

21 laps – Austin McCarl 

18 laps – Brady Bacon 

16 laps – Cameron Martin 

13 laps – Brian Brown 

9 laps – Whit Gastineau 

7 laps – Cole Macedo 

6 laps – Tyler Courtney 

3 laps – Sean McClelland 

2 laps – Brady Baker 

QUICK TIME AWARDS (7 Drivers) 

8 awards – Sam Hafertepe Jr 

2 awards – Matt Covington, Kyler Johnson 

1 award – Seth Bergman, Howard Moore, Chris Martin, Levi Hillier 

HEAT RACE WINNERS (26 Drivers) 

7 wins – Seth Bergman 

6 wins – Matt Covington 

4 wins – Sam Hafertepe Jr. 

3 wins – Whit Gastineau, Garrett Benson 

2 wins – Ryder Laplante, Chris Martin, Justin Peck, Kyler Johnson 

1 win – Jordan Mallett, Sean McClelland, Cam Martin, Brady Bacon, Tyler Clem, Emerson Axsom, Brian Brown, Cole Macedo, Garen Linder, Colby Copeland, Nick Parker, Hank Davis, JJ Hickle, Alex Hill, Jeremy Campbell, Blake Hahn, Kade Morton, Alex Sewell, Brady Baker, Howard Moore, Austyn Gossel 

DASH STARTS (36 Drivers) 

12 starts – Sam Hafertepe Jr 

10 starts – Matt Covington 

7 starts – Seth Bergman, Kyler Johnson, Whit Gastineau 

4 starts – Levi Hillier 

3 starts – Chris Martin, Tyler Courtney, Brian Brown, Justin Peck 

2 starts – Camerson Martin, Emerson Axsom, Austin McCarl, Brady Bacon, Davie Franek, Garrett Benson, Ryder Laplante, Howard Moore 

1 start – Jordan Mallett, Paul Solomon, Brock Zearfoss, Cole Macedo, Tyler Clem, Hank Davis, Nick Parker, Colby Copeland, Garen Linder, JJ Hickle, Alex Hill, Blake Hahn, Alex Sewell, Kade Morton, Jeremy Campbell, Bryant Wiedeman, Brady Baker, Austyn Gossel 

LAST CHANCE SHOWDOWN WINNERS (9 Drivers) 

2 wins – Braxton Weger 

1 win – DJ Christie, Matt Covington, Tyler Clem, Whit Gastineau, Sterling Cling, Gage Montgomery, Brogan Carder, Bradley Fezard 

HARD CHARGER AWARDS (13 Drivers) 

3 awards – Whit Gastineau 

2 awards – Sam Hafertepe Jr. 

1 award – Seth Bergman, Ryder Laplante, Brady Bacon, Cole Macedo,  DJ Netto, Brogan Carder, Joe B. Miller, Bradley Fezard, Hayden Mabe, Jack Thomas, Kyler Johnson, Casey Wills 

PODIUM FINISHES (20 Drivers) 

9 podiums – Sam Hafertepe Jr., Matt Covington 

5 podiums – Seth Bergman 

3 podiums – Justin Peck, Whit Gastineau 

2 podiums – Kyler Johnson, Tyler Courtney, Brady Bacon, Austin McCarl, Levi Hillier, Austyn Gossel 

1 podium – Cole Macedo, Emerson Axsom, Brock Zearfoss, JJ Hickle, Jordan Mallett, Chris Martin, Blake Hahn, Alex Sewell, Garrett Benson, Christopher Townsend 

2026 AMERICAN SPRINT CAR SERIES SCHEDULE + WINNERS 

Date / Track / City, State / Winner (Total Wins) 

1. Thu, Jan. 29 / Volusia Speedway Park /Barberville, FL / Tyler Courtney
2. Fri, Jan. 30 / Volusia Speedway Park /Barberville, FL / Tyler Courtney (2)
3. Mon, Feb. 2 / Volusia Speedway Park /Barberville, FL / Brady Bacon
4. Sat, Feb. 21 / Central Arizona Raceway / Casa Grande, AZ / Justin Peck
5. Sun, Feb. 21 / Central Arizona Raceway / Casa Grande, AZ / Matt Covington
6. Sat, Feb. 28 / Central Arizona Raceway / Casa Grande, AZ / Justin Peck (2)
7. Sun, Mar. 1 / Central Arizona Raceway / Casa Grande, AZ / Levi Hillier
8.  Sat, Apr. 11 / Salina Highbanks Speedway / Salina, OK / Chris Martin 
9. Fri, May 8 / Benton Speedway / Benton, MO / Seth Bergman
10. Fri, June 5 / Creek County Speedway / Sapulpa, OK / Blake Hahn
11. Sat, June 6 / 81 Speedway / Park City, KS / Seth Bergman (2)
12. Fri, June 26 / Belleville High Banks / Belleville, KS / Sam Hafertepe Jr.
13. Sat, June 27 / Belleville High Banks / Belleville, KS / Sam Hafertepe Jr. (2)
14. Fri, July 10 / Batesville Motor Speedway / Locust Grove, AR / Matt Covington (2)
15. Sat, July 11 / Texarkana 67 Speedway / Texarkana, AR / Seth Bergman (3)
16. Sat, July 25 / Dodge City Raceway Park / Dodge City, KS / Sam Hafertepe Jr. (3)
17. Sat, Aug. 1 / Viking Speedway / Alexandria, MN / Kyler Johnson

WHAT TO WATCH FOR: 36th Knoxville Nationals Provides Packed Lineup of Racing, Crown Jewel Honors  KNOXVILLE, IA (August 4, 2026) — The most coveted event on the American Sprint Car Series schedule is here. 

The 36th edition of Xtream powered by Mediacom 360 Knoxville Nationals pres. by Great Southern Bank, takes shape Thursday through Saturday, Aug. 6-8, with more than 100 cars signed up to visit the Iowa 1/2-mile dirt track. 

The three-day event will feature two prelim nights to set the grid, then Saturday’s finale has the best drivers competing for 30 laps around the “Sprint Car Capital of the World” for a $20,000-to-win prize and $1,000-to-start. 

KNOXVILLE INFO 

360 KNOXVILLE NATIONALS TICKETS 

WATCH ON DIRTVISION 

Here’s a look at the top storylines: 

How It Works – Knoxville tests the best in Sprint Cars with a unique format that spreads out through the three nights, awarding points in every session to accumulate a nightly total. 

The field is split between Thursday and Friday for preliminary competition. The Quick Time award winner earns 200 points, with a two-point decrease for each position that follows. The top 50 drivers transfer to Heats while the remainder of the field goes into a non-qualifier race, with the top eight filling the back of the C-Main. 50 points will be awarded to the winner, and a three-point drop-off will follow each spot. 

Each of the Heat races will have a six-car invert, as the winner will score 100 points and a three-point distance for positions will apply. The point totals determine where each driver will roll for the A, B, or C Features. The top four finishers in the C will transfer to the B, with the winner taking 92 points. The B-Main will take the top four to the prelim’s Feature, with the night’s overall winner taking 200 points. 

At the end of Friday’s program, Saturday’s Feature lineups will be set directly by points, with the first tiebreaker being the finishing position in the prelim Feature. The next tiebreaker will be determined by Qualifying time. Saturday’s E, D, and C Features will only take the top two to the next Feature, while the Last Chance Showdown will lock in four drivers for the championship Feature. 

Special First – Kyler Johnson broke through a four-year wait for his first ASCS National Tour victory when he held off the likes of Seth Bergman, Austyn Gossel, and Matt Covington at Viking Speedway. 

Along with being a triumphant moment, the victory was a much-needed boost for Johnson and his team. While they’ve had a fast No. 45X Maxim Chassis, mechanical issues have hindered several of their chances to put together a good run. 

Heading into Knoxville, Johnson is sitting at the highest he’s ever been in ASCS points (fourth), and will be vying for his first Feature start in both prelim nights and the Saturday finale. 

Lemons Into Lemonade – Sam Hafertepe Jr. has faced tough competition throughout the 2026 season as he leads the standings by 23 markers over Matt Covington into the 360 Knoxville Nationals. 

The Sunnyvale, TX driver’s resilience showed at Viking when his car shut down during the Heat Race, but solved the issue in time to roll back on track to finish the eight-lap chase. In the night’s Feature, he hit a tractor tire and spun while attempting to pass Matt Covington for fourth, but came back at the end to pass him for fifth and earn the night’s Hard Charger honors. 

While Hafertepe owns three prelim night victories (2021-22, 2024), he has yet to win the Saturday finale. He’s finished runner-up in the championship Feature twice (2014 and 2022), but he’s looking to make 2026 the year where he stands atop the car for a $20,000 payday. 

Bounty Hunters – A star-studded roster of the best drivers in 410 and 360 Sprint Cars will clash under the lights for three nights, highlighted by former champions, rising threats, and “Hawkeye State” locals searching for their first Nationals victory. 

Of the 114 cars that have pre-registered, 10 are former 360 Nationals champions, including Terry McCarl, Brian Brown, Sammy Swindell, Clint Garner, James McFadden, Kerry Madsen, Gio Scelzi, Aaron Reutzel, Tyler Courtney, and Rico Abreu.  

Four are ASCS champions – Hafertepe, Seth Bergman, Blake Hahn, and Reutzel. 

Ryan Timms and NASCAR champion Kyle Larson are the last two NOS Energy Drink Knoxville Nationals pres. by Casey’s champions and will both be looking for their first 360 Nationals win. 

Several Iowa natives will also be chasing their first 360 Nationals win, including the Martin brothers Chris and Cameron of Ankeny, IA, the McCarl brothers Austin and Carson of Altoona, IA, and Tasker Phillips of Pleasantville, IA. 

There will also be a stacked list of rookies, with 23 first-timers in the event. Among the rookies are ASCS Rookie of the Year contender Cole Schroeder, Whit Gastineau, Malvern Bank ASCS Midwest Region points leader Jack Thomas, and 2025 ASCS Rookie of the Year Garrett Benson. 

THIS WEEKEND AT A GLANCE

WHEN AND WHERE 

Thursday-Saturday, Aug. 6-8, at Knoxville Raceway in Knoxville, IA 

AROUND THE CORNER 

Saturday, Aug. 22, at Riverside International Speedway in West Memphis, AR 

CURRENT TOP-10 STANDINGS 

1. Sam Hafertepe Jr. (1970pts)
2. Matt Covington (-23)
3. Seth Bergman (-57)
4. Kyler Johnson (-241)
5. Ryder LaPlante (-390)
6. Whit Gastineau (-399)
7. Austyn Gossel (-414)
8. Brogan Carder (-438)
9. Terry Easum (-464)
10. Cole Schroeder (-465)

FEATURE WINNERS (10 Drivers) 

3 wins – Sam Hafertepe Jr., Seth Bergman 

2 wins – Justin Peck, Tyler Courtney, Matt Covington 

1 win – Kyler Johnson, Blake Hahn, Chris Martin, Brady Bacon, Levi Hillier 

FEATURE LAPS LED (17 Drivers) 

63 laps – Sam Hafertepe Jr. 

52 laps – Justin Peck 

48 laps – Seth Bergman 

33 laps – Matt Covington 

31 laps – Kyler Johnson 

30 laps – Levi Hillier, Blake Hahn 

24 laps – Austyn Gossel 

22 laps – Chris Martin 

21 laps – Austin McCarl 

18 laps – Brady Bacon 

16 laps – Cameron Martin 

13 laps – Brian Brown 

9 laps – Whit Gastineau 

7 laps – Cole Macedo 

6 laps – Tyler Courtney 

3 laps – Sean McClelland 

2 laps – Brady Baker 

QUICK TIME AWARDS (7 Drivers) 

8 awards – Sam Hafertepe Jr 

2 awards – Matt Covington, Kyler Johnson 

1 award – Seth Bergman, Howard Moore, Chris Martin, Levi Hillier 

HEAT RACE WINNERS (26 Drivers) 

7 wins – Seth Bergman 

6 wins – Matt Covington 

4 wins – Sam Hafertepe Jr. 

3 wins – Whit Gastineau, Garrett Benson 

2 wins – Ryder Laplante, Chris Martin, Justin Peck, Kyler Johnson 

1 win – Jordan Mallett, Sean McClelland, Cam Martin, Brady Bacon, Tyler Clem, Emerson Axsom, Brian Brown, Cole Macedo, Garen Linder, Colby Copeland, Nick Parker, Hank Davis, JJ Hickle, Alex Hill, Jeremy Campbell, Blake Hahn, Kade Morton, Alex Sewell, Brady Baker, Howard Moore, Austyn Gossel 

DASH STARTS (36 Drivers) 

12 starts – Sam Hafertepe Jr 

10 starts – Matt Covington 

7 starts – Seth Bergman, Kyler Johnson, Whit Gastineau 

4 starts – Levi Hillier 

3 starts – Chris Martin, Tyler Courtney, Brian Brown, Justin Peck 

2 starts – Camerson Martin, Emerson Axsom, Austin McCarl, Brady Bacon, Davie Franek, Garrett Benson, Ryder Laplante, Howard Moore 

1 start – Jordan Mallett, Paul Solomon, Brock Zearfoss, Cole Macedo, Tyler Clem, Hank Davis, Nick Parker, Colby Copeland, Garen Linder, JJ Hickle, Alex Hill, Blake Hahn, Alex Sewell, Kade Morton, Jeremy Campbell, Bryant Wiedeman, Brady Baker, Austyn Gossel 

LAST CHANCE SHOWDOWN WINNERS (9 Drivers) 

2 wins – Braxton Weger 

1 win – DJ Christie, Matt Covington, Tyler Clem, Whit Gastineau, Sterling Cling, Gage Montgomery, Brogan Carder, Bradley Fezard 

HARD CHARGER AWARDS (13 Drivers) 

3 awards – Whit Gastineau 

2 awards – Sam Hafertepe Jr. 

1 award – Seth Bergman, Ryder Laplante, Brady Bacon, Cole Macedo,  DJ Netto, Brogan Carder, Joe B. Miller, Bradley Fezard, Hayden Mabe, Jack Thomas, Kyler Johnson, Casey Wills 

PODIUM FINISHES (20 Drivers) 

9 podiums – Sam Hafertepe Jr., Matt Covington 

5 podiums – Seth Bergman 

3 podiums – Justin Peck, Whit Gastineau 

2 podiums – Kyler Johnson, Tyler Courtney, Brady Bacon, Austin McCarl, Levi Hillier, Austyn Gossel 

1 podium – Cole Macedo, Emerson Axsom, Brock Zearfoss, JJ Hickle, Jordan Mallett, Chris Martin, Blake Hahn, Alex Sewell, Garrett Benson, Christopher Townsend 

2026 AMERICAN SPRINT CAR SERIES SCHEDULE + WINNERS 

Date / Track / City, State / Winner (Total Wins) 

1. Thu, Jan. 29 / Volusia Speedway Park /Barberville, FL / Tyler Courtney
2. Fri, Jan. 30 / Volusia Speedway Park /Barberville, FL / Tyler Courtney (2)
3. Mon, Feb. 2 / Volusia Speedway Park /Barberville, FL / Brady Bacon
4. Sat, Feb. 21 / Central Arizona Raceway / Casa Grande, AZ / Justin Peck
5. Sun, Feb. 21 / Central Arizona Raceway / Casa Grande, AZ / Matt Covington
6. Sat, Feb. 28 / Central Arizona Raceway / Casa Grande, AZ / Justin Peck (2)
7. Sun, Mar. 1 / Central Arizona Raceway / Casa Grande, AZ / Levi Hillier
8.  Sat, Apr. 11 / Salina Highbanks Speedway / Salina, OK / Chris Martin 
9. Fri, May 8 / Benton Speedway / Benton, MO / Seth Bergman
10. Fri, June 5 / Creek County Speedway / Sapulpa, OK / Blake Hahn
11. Sat, June 6 / 81 Speedway / Park City, KS / Seth Bergman (2)
12. Fri, June 26 / Belleville High Banks / Belleville, KS / Sam Hafertepe Jr.
13. Sat, June 27 / Belleville High Banks / Belleville, KS / Sam Hafertepe Jr. (2)
14. Fri, July 10 / Batesville Motor Speedway / Locust Grove, AR / Matt Covington (2)
15. Sat, July 11 / Texarkana 67 Speedway / Texarkana, AR / Seth Bergman (3)
16. Sat, July 25 / Dodge City Raceway Park / Dodge City, KS / Sam Hafertepe Jr. (3)
17. Sat, Aug. 1 / Viking Speedway / Alexandria, MN / Kyler Johnson

ARTICLE:https://ascsracing.com/what-to-watch-for/what-to-watch-for-36th-knoxville-nationals-provides-packed-lineup-of-racing-crown-jewel-honors/